How to Apply for a Kenya Driving Licence on NTSA eCitizen in 2026

Getting your Kenya driving licence through the NTSA eCitizen portal is now the standard route, and the process has become smoother than it was a few years ago. You'll still need patience—and the right documents—but you can start from your phone or computer without visiting an NTSA office first.

The entire application happens on ecitizen.go.ke, the government's single portal for most licences and permits. The NTSA stopped handling many manual applications years ago, so this digital route is no longer optional—it's how the system works.

What You Need Before You Start

Gather these documents. Trying to apply without them will waste your time:

• A valid national ID or passport
• A completed medical examination report from an approved clinic (this costs around KSh 500–1,500 depending on the clinic)
• Proof of residence—a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last three months
• A recent passport-size photograph (digital or scanned)
• Your KRA PIN if you have one (optional, but speeds things up)

The medical exam is non-negotiable. You cannot skip this step. Visit any clinic registered with NTSA or the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Board. The examination tests your eyesight, hearing, and general fitness to drive.

The Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Log into eCitizen. Go to ecitizen.go.ke and create an account if you don't have one. Use your email address and a strong password. Verify your email immediately—you'll need that confirmation.

Step 2: Search for NTSA services. Once logged in, search for "driving licence" or browse under the Transport category. You'll see options for different licence classes: Class A (motorcycle), Class B (private vehicles), Class C (light goods vehicles), and so on. Select the class you need.

Step 3: Fill in your details. The portal asks for your personal information, contact details, and next of kin. Double-check everything. Errors here can delay processing. If you have a KRA PIN, enter it correctly.

Step 4: Upload documents. Scan your ID, medical report, proof of residence, and photograph. Files must be clear and in PDF or JPG format. Blurry uploads often get rejected, sending you back to square one.

Step 5: Pay the fee. Fees vary by licence class but typically range from KSh 2,500 to KSh 5,000. You'll pay via M-Pesa or card through the portal. Keep your payment receipt.

Step 6: Wait for verification. NTSA takes 5–14 business days to review your application. You'll receive an SMS or email when your application is approved or if they need more information. If approved, you'll get a collection date and code.

Step 7: Collect your licence. Visit the nearest NTSA office on your assigned date with your collection code and original ID. This is the only step that requires a physical visit.

If you're uncertain about any step, eCitizen experts on Kaziiko can guide you through the process or help troubleshoot rejections.

Common Reasons Applications Get Rejected

Your application might be returned if your medical exam is from a non-approved clinic, your photograph doesn't meet specifications (white background, face clearly visible), or your proof of residence is expired. Some rejections happen because applicants enter their ID number inconsistently across forms. Read the feedback email carefully—it tells you exactly what's missing.

Processing times can stretch beyond two weeks during peak periods, especially around holiday seasons. Plan ahead if you need your licence by a specific date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for a driving licence without a medical exam?

No. The medical exam is mandatory for all first-time and renewal applications. You cannot proceed without it, and the portal will not accept your application otherwise.

What if my eCitizen application is rejected?

NTSA sends a rejection reason via email. Fix the issue—usually a document quality problem or missing information—then resubmit. You may need to pay the fee again depending on what failed. Contact NTSA experts on Kaziiko if you're unsure how to proceed.

How long does it take to get my licence after collection?

NTSA issues your physical licence immediately when you collect it at the office. Bring your original ID and collection code.

Can someone else collect my licence for me?

Most NTSA offices require you to collect in person with your ID. Some offices allow authorized representatives, but policies vary by branch. Call your nearest NTSA office to confirm before sending someone else.