Step-by-step guide

How to Get a Driving Licence in Kenya

The full 2026 path — from your first application to a full smart driving licence.

NTSA fees: from KSh 3,050 Apply on eCitizen Provisional licence: 3 months, renewable

The steps

  1. 1

    Get a medical certificate

    Visit an NTSA-approved doctor for a medical fitness certificate. You need it before you can apply.

  2. 2

    Apply for a Provisional Driving Licence (PDL)

    Apply online on eCitizen (NTSA). The PDL is valid for 3 months and is renewable. NTSA fees are about KSh 3,050.

  3. 3

    Enrol in an NTSA-licensed driving school

    Training at a registered driving school is mandatory. You learn the Highway Code, road signs, and practical driving.

  4. 4

    Pass the theory test

    The NTSA theory test is 20 multiple-choice questions (16 to pass) on the Highway Code, road signs, and the Model Town Board.

  5. 5

    Pass the practical driving test

    A driving examiner assesses your vehicle control, observation, and road handling in a real vehicle.

  6. 6

    Get your full smart driving licence

    Once you pass both tests, NTSA issues your full smart driving licence, valid for 3 years and renewable on eCitizen.

What you need to apply

National IDKRA PINPassport photosMedical certificate

Driving licence classes (A to G)

Kenya has 7 licence classes under Legal Notice 28 of 2020.

AMotorcycles & three-wheelers
BCars & light vehicles up to 3,500 kg
CTrucks & goods vehicles
DPublic service vehicles (matatus, buses)
EProfessional / multi-category endorsement
FDrivers with disability
GIndustrial, agricultural & construction plant

Learning on a provisional licence

While learning, display L-plates front and rear, be accompanied by a driving instructor or a qualified driver of that class, and do not carry passengers for hire. Minimum age: 18 for a car (Class B), 16 for a motorcycle (Class A).

Start training for your theory test

Learn every Highway Code topic, then practise with the free NTSA mock test.

Start free Try the free NTSA mock test

Related topics

Licensing Classes (A-G)
Insurance & Legal Obligations
Boda Boda Road Rules

Based on the Kenya Highway Code. Always follow road signs and your instructor.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a driving licence cost in Kenya?

Budget from about KSh 3,050 in total, covering the provisional licence, NTSA test fees, and licence issuance on eCitizen — driving-school course fees are separate.

What are the driving licence classes in Kenya?

NTSA uses classes A to G — from A (motorcycles) and B (light vehicles up to 3,500 kg) through to the heavy-commercial and PSV classes. You test for the class you need.

How long does it take to get a driving licence in Kenya?

Usually about 1–2 months: enrol at an NTSA-registered driving school, get your provisional licence (PDL), then pass the theory and practical tests.

Do I need a provisional driving licence (PDL) first?

Yes. You apply for a provisional driving licence (PDL) on eCitizen before you can sit the NTSA tests.

Where do I book the NTSA driving test?

On the eCitizen portal. The theory test is now computer-based and taken at an NTSA office; you also book the practical test there.