Driving a vehicle without a valid license is against the law in Kenya and can result in a fine of up to Ksh 1,000 if you’re caught. To avoid this, it’s important to renew your driver’s license as soon as it expires.
Nowadays, the renewal process for a driving license in Kenya is conveniently handled through the eCitizen portal, a comprehensive platform for accessing various government services.
How To Renew Your Driving Licence Online
Renewing your driving license online is a quick and easy process that can be completed in just 5 minutes.
Step 1: Log In to Your eCitizen Account
Access the eCitizen portal through this link: https://accounts.ecitizen.go.ke/
Click the ‘Sign In’ button on the top right to log in.
Once logged in, your details will be displayed at the top of the website, confirming that you’re in your account.
Scroll down and click on the ‘Apply for a Driving License‘ icon.
You’ll be redirected to the NTSA dashboard, where you can see your driving license details and its status. If it’s expired, click the ‘Renew’ button.
Step 2: Provide Driving License Information
Select the type of driving license you have under ‘Type of Renewal’. If it’s the Red Book, select it.
- If you’re renewing the smart driving license, this option won’t be available as the system automatically recognizes that you have a smart DL.
- The remaining steps are similar, with an additional step for smart DL holders to enter a collection center for their Smart DL.
Enter your place of birth and blood group if known, then provide more information such as your country and county of residence, and physical address.
Step 3: Attach Your Passport Photo
Attach your passport photo in JPG or JPEG format. Note that this option is not available for smart driving license users. For Red Book DL users, after attaching your photo, check the box to confirm that you have provided all the required information and click ‘Renew’.
Step 4: Make Payment
Select your preferred payment option, and follow the instructions provided in the drop-down menu.
The cost to renew your driving license in Kenya for one year is KSH 650. After payment, click the ‘Complete’ button.
Step 5: Download the Renewed Driving License
Your driving license is now renewed. Click the ‘Download’ button on the top right to download it. Print and keep it in your car, or save it on your phone to present to a traffic police officer if requested.”
That’s how you can renew your driving license online in Kenya.
How to Renew Your Smart Driving License
After providing the general information, you’ll be directed to the payment section. Multiple payment options are available. Select your preferred method, and follow the instructions provided in the drop-down menu.
The renewal of the Smart driving license is limited to a period of 3 years, and the cost is Ksh 3,050 for this duration. Once you’ve made the payment, click the ‘Complete’ button.
You’ll then be taken to a page where you can download your payment receipt. At this stage, your driving license is renewed, but you will need to visit a Huduma Center near you to have your biometrics captured and a passport photo taken.
Remember to bring the payment receipt and your original ID when visiting the Huduma Center. After this step, you’ll need to wait for 3 to 4 weeks. NTSA will then contact you to collect your Smart driving license from the collection center you selected earlier.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, renewing your driving license in Kenya in 2024 is a straightforward process that can be completed online through the NTSA TIMS portal. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your license is up to date, allowing you to drive legally and safely on Kenyan roads. It’s important to keep track of your license’s expiry date and renew it in a timely manner to avoid any inconveniences or legal issues. With the convenience of online renewal, there’s no reason to delay. Additionally, to further enhance your driving experience, consider exploring the range of car interior accessories available at Ignition Covers Kenya. Stay compliant and enjoy your driving experience in Kenya.
