How to Renew Your Driving License in Kenya through eCitizen

Renewing your driving license in Kenya has become more accessible thanks to the eCitizen platform. The process is entirely online, saving citizens the hassle of long queues and manual paperwork. This guide will walk you through all the steps needed to renew your driving license on the eCitizen portal, ensuring that the process is seamless and efficient.

Step-by-Step Guide to Renewing Your Driving License in Kenya

1. Create an eCitizen Account (If You Don’t Have One)

The first step to renewing your driving license is creating an eCitizen account. This is the official government portal where several services, including the renewal of licenses, are processed.

To create an account:

• Visit eCitizen porttaleCitizen.
• Select the "Create an Account" option.
• Fill in your details (ID number, email, and password) to register.
• Verify your account via the confirmation link sent to your email.
• Once your account is created, you can now proceed to renew your driving license.

2. Log in to Your eCitizen Account

• Navigate to the eCitizen portal.
• Enter your ID number or email and password to log in.
• Once logged in, you’ll be redirected to the eCitizen dashboard, where various services are listed.

3. Access NTSA Services

On the dashboard, scroll down to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) section. Here you’ll find services related to motor vehicle registration, driving tests, and license renewals.

To renew your driving license:

• Click on the NTSA Services option.
• Select Driving License Renewal from the menu.

4. Choose the Type of License to Renew

The eCitizen platform allows you to renew different types of driving licenses, whether for one or three years. The fees differ depending on the period selected.

The options are:

• One-year license: Ksh 600 (plus a Ksh 50 convenience fee).
• Three-year license: Ksh 1,400 (plus a Ksh 50 convenience fee).

Choose the duration that suits you and proceed to the next step.

5. Make Payment

After selecting the type of license, you will be prompted to make the payment. The platform provides several payment options, including:

• M-Pesa: Enter your M-Pesa details and follow the prompts on your phone to complete the transaction.
• Debit/Credit Cards: Enter your card details and complete the payment.
• Other Mobile Money Services: For Airtel Money or other available mobile services, select the appropriate option.

Ensure that the payment is processed correctly and that you receive a confirmation.

6. Download and Print the Renewal Slip

Once payment is completed successfully, you will receive a confirmation on the portal and via SMS. The renewed license will be available for download from your eCitizen account.

To get your renewal slip:

• Download the driving license renewal slip.
• Print it out and keep it with you as proof of renewal.

Remember that NTSA is phasing out the manual licenses and gradually moving towards smart driving licenses. You may also opt to upgrade to a smart license, which can be done via the same eCitizen platform.

How to Apply for a Smart Driving License

The smart driving license offers more benefits than the manual version. It is embedded with a chip that stores your driving history, offenses, and other relevant information. Here’s how to apply for it:

1. Log in to eCitizen and Select Smart License Application

After logging in to your eCitizen account, select NTSA Services, then click on Smart Driving License Application.

2. Fill in the Application Form

Provide accurate personal information and details about your current license. Ensure that all the details entered match those in your original driving license.

3. Book a Visit to an NTSA Office

Once the application form is submitted, book an appointment at the nearest NTSA office for biometrics. During this visit, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken.

4. Pay the Required Fees

The cost of the smart driving license is Ksh 3,000 for a three-year validity period.

5. Collect Your Smart Driving License

Once the biometrics are completed and payment is confirmed, your smart driving license will be processed and you will be notified when it’s ready for collection.

FAQs About Driving License Renewal in Kenya

Q1: What Happens If I Don’t Renew My Driving License on Time?

If you fail to renew your license within the stipulated time, you risk being fined if caught driving with an expired license. It's important to renew before your current license expires to avoid penalties.

Q2: Can I Renew My License After It Has Expired?

Yes, you can renew an expired driving license through the eCitizen portal without any additional charges. However, it is advisable to renew before the expiration date.

Q3: Can I Renew My License Offline?

NTSA has moved most of its services online to streamline the process and reduce queues at their offices. It’s recommended to use the eCitizen portal to renew your driving license. Manual renewals are being phased out.

Q4: How Long Does It Take to Get a Smart Driving License?

After completing your biometrics, it can take anywhere from two to four weeks to get your smart driving license, depending on the processing speed at the NTSA office.

Q5: What Do I Need for a Driving License Renewal?

The essential requirements include your National ID, your current driving license, and the renewal fee. Ensure all your documents are up to date and accessible during the renewal process.