Application for a Smart Driving License

From: Government of Kenya (public information)

Published 2 June 2026 · Last updated 31 August 2026

Find out how to convert your old paper driving booklet or temporary interim licence into a secure biometric Smart Driving Licence. This guide covers booking appointments, biometric processing, and collection rules.

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
Start on eCitizen (opens in a new tab)

You will leave CitizenGuide.KE to complete the application on an official system.

Quick facts

Processing time
5 to 7 working days for processing after biometrics capture.
Base cost
Ksh 3,110 flat fee
How to apply
Hybrid (Online form and physical attendance required)

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

Before you start

  • Must possess an active, legally verified profile on the eCitizen NTSA portal.
  • Must know your precise blood group type (mandatory for digital chip programming).

Documents you need

  • Your original National Identity Card (or valid passport).
  • Your printed NTSA eCitizen biometric appointment slip.
  • Your current physical driving licence book or a copy of your active paper interim licence.

Step by step

  1. Access the NTSA portal on eCitizen

    Sign into your validated personal eCitizen account dashboard and navigate directly to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) service portal link.

  2. Open the Smart DL Application form

    Locate the "Driving License Services" sub-menu selection panel, choose the "Application for a Smart Driving License" pathway, and select your current license category tier.

  3. Provide personal and medical profile information

    Enter your biographical details accurately, making sure to select your correct blood group medical classification type from the mandatory drop-down field option list.

  4. Pay the processing and convenience fees

    Select your chosen eCitizen transaction tool (M-Pesa, card, or direct bank transfer) and authorize the immediate clearance of the full Ksh 3,110 total platform fee.

  5. Schedule your physical biometrics appointment slot

    Open the online scheduling calendar application layout, pick your nearest regional NTSA service branch or Huduma Centre location, select an open date/hour slot, and print your formal receipt slip.

  6. Attend biometrics and track card pick-up notice

    Present yourself physically at your booked center to record your digital facial photo image and fingerprint metrics, then await an SMS text alerting you that your card is ready for biometric verification pick-up.

Fees and charges

ItemCost
NTSA Smart DL Generation FeeKsh 3,000
eCitizen Portal Convenience ChargeKsh 110

Office visits

  • Fingerprint biometrics capturing and digital passport photo mapping. — You must book and physically visit an NTSA Main Hub or a designated Huduma Centre biometric desk (e.g., NTSA Headquarters at 316 Upper Hill Chambers in Nairobi, or regional NTSA operational branches nationwide).

You may also use a Huduma Centre where the service is offered.

Questions

Can someone else collect my physical Smart Driving License for me?
No. Collection requires explicit biometric verification. You must physically present yourself at the collection desk to match your fingerprints before the card system releases the card.
How long is the printed Smart Driving Licence valid for?
The physical plastic card itself does not expire, but your legal driving validation must be updated on the chip every 1 year or 3 years via standard renewal options.
Start on eCitizen (opens in a new tab)