How to Apply for a TSC Number as a Teacher in Kenya: Step-by-Step Guide 📋

Every teacher in Kenya — public or private — must hold a valid **TSC number** to legally engage in teaching duties. This registration is mandated under the Teachers Service Commission Act and ensures accountability, professionalism, and recognition. In this guide, you’ll find the latest procedures, requirements, and tips for applying and getting your TSC number as smoothly as possible. ✅

What Is a TSC Number & Why It Matters

The **Teachers Service Commission (TSC)** is the body responsible for the registration, deployment, promotion, and regulation of teachers in Kenya. A TSC number is a unique registration identifier that certifies you as a qualified teacher in the national registry. Without it, you cannot be formally employed in public institutions or certain private schools.

This system enhances professional standards, ensures teachers are qualified, and helps the government manage human resources in education. (See more about TSC’s mandate on Wikipedia) Teachers Service Commission – Wikipedia

Who Is Eligible for a TSC Number?

To apply, you must meet both **academic** and **professional** qualifications as defined by TSC.

Academic Requirements

Completion of secondary education (KCSE or equivalent) with a minimum grade, as stipulated by TSC policy.
A certificate, diploma, or degree in education or teaching (or its equivalent). For non-education degree holders, you may need a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE).
Recognition of foreign qualifications by the relevant Kenyan authority (for non-Kenyan trained teachers).

Professional & Ethical Requirements

A certificate of good conduct (local or foreign, depending on your background).
Medical fitness (often via GP69 form).
No history of criminal conviction that would make one unfit for teaching.
Truthful declaration of any past dismissal, disciplinary action, or conviction (if any).

Documents You Must Prepare (Scanned Soft Copies)

Before starting the online application, assemble the following in clear, legible scanned form:

Certified academic & professional certificates (e.g. degree, diploma, transcripts)
National ID (both sides) or valid passport (for non-citizens)
KRA PIN certificate or statement
GP69 medical form, duly filled
Certificate of Good Conduct
One passport-size photo (digital)
Work permit / entry permit for non-Kenyans
Bank or mobile payment proof (slip, transaction code)
Any name change affidavits (if applicable)

Step-by-Step Application Process (2025 Updated)

Step 1: Visit the TSC Online Portal

Go to the Teachers Online portal via the TSC website and select the “New Teacher Registration” module: TSC New Registration Portal

Step 2: Provide Basic Personal & Identity Info

Fill in fields like ID number (or passport), surname, phone number, category (ECDE, Primary, Post-Primary), confirmation of training, KCSE grade, year of sitting, etc.

Step 3: Verify via OTP / Email

You will receive a one-time PIN (OTP) on your email or via SMS. Verify to proceed.

Step 4: Fill in Personal & Contact Details

Enter full name, date of birth, gender, nationality, county & sub-county, permanent and current address, email, postal code, etc.

Step 5: Upload Academic & Professional Certificates

Upload scanned copies of your certificates with details: institution, certificate number, years attended. Use the “Add” function to upload multiple documents.

Step 6: Upload Additional Documents

Upload your ID, KRA PIN, GP69, good conduct, passport photo, and for non-citizens, work permit / entry permit, and any vetting or foreign credential equivalence proof.

Step 7: Enter Teaching Subjects & Background Questions

Indicate your specialization subjects, hours trained, whether you’ve ever been dismissed or convicted, medical conditions, etc.

Step 8: Payment of Registration Fee

Pay the non-refundable fee (currently **KES 1,050** for new registration) via E-Citizen channels (M-Pesa, Airtel Money, banks, etc.). Provide the transaction code or slip number. Note: duplicate certificate requests cost more (e.g. KES 2,050).

Step 9: Final Review & Submission

Review all fields carefully. Once satisfied, click “Submit / Finalize.” Download or print the summary for your records.

Step 10: Track Application Status

You can monitor status via the “Registration Status” section on Teachers Online. Enter your ID number to see whether your application is In Progress, Verified, or Registered.

Processing Time & Delivery

After verification, TSC aims to issue the Certificate of Registration bearing your unique TSC number within **30 days**. You will receive an SMS notification. The certificate will also be emailed to you. In some cases, processing could take longer if verification or credential equivalence delays occur.

Reasons Applications May Be Rejected (or Delayed)

Uploaded documents are unclear or do not match original certifications
Insufficient academic / professional qualifications
Previous criminal records, dismissals, or undisclosed disciplinary issues
Name mismatch / missing affidavits
Foreign qualifications not recognized or improperly equated
Non-payment or incorrect payment details

Tips & Best Practices for a Smooth Process

Use clear, high-resolution scans (PDF or JPEG) for all documents
Ensure your email and phone number are active and accessible
Cross-check details (names, dates, certificate numbers) before uploading
Keep backup copies of all original documents
Follow up via the portal; if delays exceed 60 days, contact TSC support
For foreign teachers, ensure proper credential evaluation and submission in time
Use HTTPS/secure connection and a stable internet to avoid session timeouts

After Registration: What Next?

Once registered:

You may be deployed to public schools or eligible to teach in private institutions.
Your name will be published in the annual register of teachers.
Keep your certificate safe — you may need it for employment, transfers, or promotions.
Update your profile if you change name, qualifications, or address.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need to re-register each year?
No. Your registration is permanent unless revoked or suspended for valid reasons. Can I teach without a TSC number?
Legally no — for public institutions and many private schools, a valid TSC number is required to be recognized as a teacher. What if I lose my certificate?
You can apply for a duplicate certificate via the same portal (higher fee applies). For how long is the registration valid?
It remains valid indefinitely, unless a disciplinary process leads to revocation. Are there any physical visits required?
No. The entire process is online, including uploads and status tracking. TSC no longer accepts paper forms. How to speed up processing?
Submit clear documents, avoid name mismatches, respond quickly if TSC requests additional info, and regularly check status.

Conclusion

Applying for your **TSC number** is a critical step in your teaching career in Kenya. By following this updated, accurate guide — preparing well, submitting properly, and tracking diligently — you increase your chances of a smooth and timely registration. Good luck on your journey to becoming a fully registered teacher! 🍎

Titus Morebu