Apply for your first full driving licence

From: Government of Kenya (public information)

Published 2 June 2026 · Last updated 31 August 2026

Find out how to apply for your official endorsement and entry-level interim licence after passing the NTSA driving test. This guide covers the final step to becoming a legally authorized driver in Kenya.

Warning This is an independent guide — not a government website. Never share passwords or OTPs with agents. Only pay through official portals. Scams and fake websites
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You will leave CitizenGuide.KE to complete the application on an official system.

Quick facts

Processing time
Instant (Generated immediately as a downloadable PDF on your dashboard upon payment)
Base cost
Ksh 1,050 flat fee
How to apply
Online (Digital submission)

Fees and times can change. Confirm on the official site before you pay.

Before you start

  • Must have officially passed the NTSA driving test within the last 90 days.
  • Your test results must be digitally updated and visible as "Passed" on your eCitizen profile.
  • Must have an active, personalized eCitizen account portal access profile.

Documents you need

  • National ID card number or Foreign Passport details.
  • No physical uploads are required as the system syncs directly with your digital test records.

Step by step

  1. Log into the NTSA service portal

    Access the eCitizen portal network platform, log in with your credentials, and select the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) service dash layout.

  2. Open the full driving licence application

    Navigate to the "Driving License Services" category panel, click the "Apply for Full Driving Licence" link option, and confirm your verified test results.

  3. Verify endorsed vehicle classes

    Check the vehicle classes displayed on the screen layout to ensure they precisely match the specific test categories you passed during your exam.

  4. Authorize the statutory payment

    Select an active eCitizen transaction option link (M-Pesa, card, or direct bank transfer) and clear the flat application fee.

  5. Download your Interim Driving Licence

    Go to your dashboard application history records immediately, open your approved application tracking sheet, and print your 90-day interim driving permit slip.

Fees and charges

ItemCost
NTSA First Full Driving Licence Issuance FeeKsh 1,000
eCitizen Portal Convenience ChargeKsh 50

Questions

What should I do if my 90-day interim driving licence expires before my Smart DL is ready?
You must log back into your NTSA eCitizen profile page and select the renewal options menu to extend your driving validity window legally.
Does this step automatically give me my physical plastic smart card?
No. This step issues your legal permission to drive (the interim licence). To receive the physical microchip card, you must follow the separate "Application for a Smart Driving License" guide to book biometrics.
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