The NTSA introduced the new generation smart driving license in April 2018. This modern license resembles a national ID card and features a secure computer chip. This chip stores the motorist’s information, which is only accessible through special electronic gadgets used by NTSA officials. There are multiple ways to confirm the authenticity of your driving license, whether it’s the older booklet or the new smart DL.
| Category | Description | Vehicle Types |
|---|---|---|
| A1 (Moped) | Allows riding a motorcycle up to 50cc. No passengers are permitted. | Motorcycles with an engine capacity of 50cc or less. |
| A2 (Light Motorcycle) | For motorcycles with an engine capacity above 50cc. A passenger can be carried. | Motorcycles, scooters. |
| A3 (Motorcycle Taxi/Courier) | For commercial motorcycle use, such as boda-boda or courier services. | Motorcycles above 100cc for commercial use. |
| B (Light Vehicles) | Covers cars and small vans with a gross vehicle weight up to 3,500kg. | Passenger cars, small vans (up to 7 passengers). |
| C (Light Truck) | For light trucks designed to carry goods. | Light commercial trucks. |
| D (PSVs) | For Public Service Vehicles, including matatus and buses. | Taxis, matatus, minibuses, large buses. |
| E (Heavy Trucks) | For heavy commercial vehicles, often with a trailer. | Large trucks, commercial vehicles with trailers. |
| F (Persons with Disability) | Specially adapted vehicles for drivers with disabilities. | Adapted cars. |
| G (Industrial/Construction) | For operating heavy machinery used in construction or agriculture. | Graders, excavators, forklifts. |
How to Check Your Driving License Validity
Verifying your driving license is a straightforward process. The NTSA has streamlined its services, moving them to the eCitizen platform to provide a single gateway for all government services. You can use the eCitizen portal, the NTSA mobile app, or a simple SMS service to check your status[6].
Using the eCitizen Portal
The eCitizen platform is the primary online hub for NTSA services. It allows you to access a wide range of functions, including checking your license details. This method is reliable and provides comprehensive information about your license status.
- Log in to your eCitizen account using your credentials.
- Navigate to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) section. This might be listed under “Agencies” or “Services.”
- Once on the NTSA dashboard, look for a section displaying your driving license details.
- The system will show if your license is valid. You can cross-reference the details shown online with the information on your physical card to confirm its authenticity. If the details match, your license is original.
Using the NTSA Mobile App
For smartphone users, the NTSA offers a mobile application for convenient access to its services. The app is a free tool available for both Android and iOS devices.
- Download the official NTSA app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Install and open the application.
- If you are a new user, you will need to register for an account. Otherwise, enter your login details.
- Find and tap on the “Verify License” or “Driving License Verification” tab.
- Enter your National ID number when prompted and select the verify button.
- The app will display your license status, confirming its validity on the screen.
Using the SMS Service
If you don’t have internet access, you can still check your license status using a simple SMS code. This is a quick method that works on any mobile phone.
- Open the messaging app on your phone.
- Compose a new message.
- Type the letters “DL,” followed by a space, and then your National ID number (e.g., DL 12345678).
- Send this message to the NTSA shortcode, which is 22846.
- You will receive an SMS response from NTSA confirming your license status. Note that standard messaging rates may apply.
Also Read: How to Pass Vehicle Inspection NTSA in Just 20 Minutes
The NTSA Smart Driving License
The NTSA Smart Driving License is a significant upgrade from the old red booklet. Launched in 2018, it is a credit-card-sized document with a chip that stores the driver’s data, including their name, blood group, and driving history. This digital license supports a demerit point system designed to promote responsible driving. While the old licenses are still in use, all motorists are encouraged to migrate to the smart DL.
How to Apply for a Smart DL
The application process for the Smart DL is done online through the eCitizen portal. The license is valid for three years.
- Log into your eCitizen account and go to the NTSA services section.
- Click on “Apply for a Driving License” and select the Smart DL option.
- Confirm that your personal details are correct. Any errors can be corrected during the biometric capture appointment.
- Proceed to make the payment for the application. The fee for a three-year license is KSh 3,050.
- After payment, schedule an appointment at your nearest NTSA office or Huduma Centre to have your biometrics captured.
- On the day of your appointment, carry your original ID for verification. Your photo, fingerprints, and digital signature will be taken.
- Your Smart DL will be ready for collection within a few working days.
How to Renew Your Driving License
License renewal can also be completed online. The NTSA provides options for a one-year or three-year renewal.
- Log into your eCitizen account and access the NTSA dashboard.
- Click on the “Driving License Renewal” option.
- Choose your desired renewal period. A one-year renewal costs KSh 600, while a three-year renewal costs KSh 3,000. An additional convenience fee of KSh 50 applies.
- Confirm your details and submit the application.
- Select your preferred payment method, such as mobile money or a debit/credit card.
- After payment, print your renewal slip.
- For Smart DL renewals, you are no longer required to undergo the biometrics process again if you already have the new license.
How to Check if Your Driving License is Ready for Collection
After applying for a new Smart DL, you can check its status to know when it’s ready for collection.
- Via eCitizen: Log into the portal, go to the NTSA tab, and click on “check status.” A notification will inform you if your license is ready.
- Via SMS: Send your National ID number in the format “DL [ID Number]” to 22846 to get a status update.
Also Read: How to Apply for NTSA New Number Plates Online in Kenya (2025 Guide)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What are the age requirements for a Kenyan driving license?
To get a license for a motorcycle (Class A), you must be at least 16 years old. For a license to drive a motor vehicle (Class B and others), you must be at least 18 years old.
2. Is the old red booklet driving license still valid in Kenya?
Yes, the old driving license is still valid for use on Kenyan roads. However, the government and NTSA strongly encourage all motorists to upgrade to the new Smart DL.
3. What happens if my driving license expires?
Driving with an expired license is illegal and can lead to fines. It is essential to renew your license before its expiry date. You can check the expiry date using the methods outlined above and renew it online through the eCitizen portal.
4. Can I hold more than one driving license in Kenya?
No, a person is only entitled to hold one driving license. However, a single license can be endorsed to permit the holder to drive multiple classes of vehicles.
Also Read: How to Complete NTSA Transfer of Ownership Fast on eCitizen
