Complete guide 2026Updated April 2026Kenya Driving Licence 2026 The Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about getting your driving licence in Kenya — oral/Model Town Board theory test (80% pass mark), NTSA testing centres, total cost ~KES 5,850, BAC 0.08% private (0.00% PSV/commercial), speed limits 50/80/110 km/h, 20-point demerit system, and driving on the left.
Table of Contents
Theory Test
Kenya's theory test is oral and demonstration-based, using a Model Town Board — a scale model of road layouts where candidates move a toy car to demonstrate knowledge of road rules, signs, and right of way.
Candidates also identify road signs. The pass mark is 80% (16/20). The test is administered at NTSA testing centres. Duration approximately 30 minutes.
Total Cost
The total government fee for a first-time driving licence is approximately KES 5,850: provisional licence KES 600, driving test fee KES 2,500, and Smart Driving Licence (3-year) KES 3,050.
Driving school fees are separate and vary widely. Kenya uses a digital application process through the eCitizen/TIMS portal.
Road Deaths
Kenya recorded 4,748 road deaths in 2024, a 9.8% increase from 4,324 in 2023.
The WHO estimates the true death rate at 28 per 100,000 population, compared to the NTSA-reported rate of 8.6/100K, suggesting significant underreporting. Pedestrians (38%) and motorcyclists are the most affected groups.
BAC Limit
Blood alcohol limit of 0.08% (80mg/100ml blood) for private drivers, and zero tolerance (0.00%) for PSV and commercial drivers.
DUI penalties under Traffic Act Section 44 include fines up to KES 500,000 and/or imprisonment up to 10 years. DUI is a leading cause of road fatalities in Kenya.
Top Fine
DUI carries the heaviest penalty: fines up to KES 500,000 and/or imprisonment up to 10 years under Traffic Act Section 44.
Reckless driving fines range from KES 20,000 to KES 100,000. Speeding fines range from KES 10,000 to KES 100,000 depending on the extent of the violation.
WHO Death Rate
The WHO estimates Kenya's road death rate at 28 per 100,000 population — significantly higher than the NTSA-reported 8.6/100K.
This suggests that roughly two-thirds of road fatalities may go unreported. Kenya's rate is among the highest in Africa and globally, roughly 9.7x higher than the UK (2.9/100K).
Kenya Road Safety: 5-Year Trend (2020–2024)
Kenya faces a persistent road safety crisis, with 4,748 fatalities recorded in 2024 — a 9.8% increase from 2023. Pedestrians account for 38% of deaths, followed by motorcyclists (boda-boda riders) and passengers. Despite government initiatives through NTSA, including speed governor mandates for PSVs and increased enforcement, the death toll has trended upward. The WHO estimates the true toll is roughly 3x higher than officially reported.
Year-over-year changes
Deaths per 100,000 Population
- Kenya28
South Africa20.7
Nigeria21.4
Tanzania16.7
India12.1
Source: WHO Global Status Report on Road Safety 2023, NTSA Annual Reports. Per-capita rates are estimates and may vary by methodology.
Kenyan Driving Theory Test Format
Oral examination with Model Town Board administered at NTSA testing centres across all 47 counties
The Kenyan driving theory test is unique in that it is oral and demonstration-based rather than a written or computerised multiple-choice exam. Candidates are tested using a Model Town Board — a scale model of road junctions, roundabouts, and traffic scenarios where the candidate must move a toy car to demonstrate correct driving decisions. Candidates also identify road signs from charts. The test consists of approximately 20 questions, and the pass mark is 80% (16/20). The test is administered at NTSA testing centres. Before taking the theory test, candidates must hold a provisional licence (valid for 6 months) and have completed training at an approved driving school. The entire process is managed through the eCitizen/TIMS digital portal.
Questions
Duration
Pass Mark
Test Fee
What the Theory Test Covers
- Regulatory signs (stop, yield, speed limit, no entry)
- Warning signs (curves, intersections, school zones)
- Informational signs (route markers, distance boards)
- Road markings (solid lines, broken lines, pedestrian crossings)
- Traffic signals and their meanings
- Right of way at junctions and roundabouts
- Correct lane positioning and turning procedures
- Overtaking rules and no-passing zones
- Speed limits by road type and zone
- Rules for pedestrians, cyclists, and animals on roads
- Defensive driving principles
- Night driving safety
- Handling emergencies (breakdowns, accidents)
- Vehicle maintenance basics
- Alcohol and drug impairment awareness
How to Get Your Kenyan Driving Licence
From application to Smart Driving Licence — the complete process
- 1
Apply on eCitizen/TIMS Portal
Create an account on the eCitizen portal and access TIMS for driving licence services
Visit ecitizen.go.ke, register, and navigate to NTSA/TIMS services. Upload a passport photo, your Kenyan ID or passport, and a KRA PIN certificate. All applications are processed digitally.
- 2
Obtain Medical Certificate
Get a medical examination from a registered medical practitioner
A medical certificate confirming fitness to drive is required. The examination includes vision, hearing, and general health checks. The certificate must be uploaded to TIMS.
- 3
Enrol at a Driving School
Register at an NTSA-approved driving school for practical training
All first-time applicants must complete training at an approved driving school. The school provides both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. Costs vary by school and vehicle class.
- 4
Get Provisional Licence (KES 600)
Apply for and receive your provisional driving licence through TIMS
The provisional licence allows you to drive while learning, accompanied by a licensed driver. Valid for 6 months. Fee: KES 600. You must display L-plates on the vehicle.
- 5
Take Theory Test at NTSA (Model Town Board)
Pass the oral/demonstration theory test at an NTSA testing centre
The test uses a Model Town Board where you demonstrate driving knowledge by moving a toy car through traffic scenarios. Also includes road sign identification. Pass mark: 80%. Fee included in the KES 2,500 driving test fee.
- 6
Pass the Practical Driving Test
Demonstrate driving competence on public roads with an NTSA examiner
The road test assesses your ability to drive safely in real traffic conditions. Includes vehicle checks, starting, stopping, turning, parking, hill starts, and general road courtesy. Fee: KES 2,500 (combined with theory).
- 7
Receive Smart Driving Licence (KES 3,050)
Collect your Smart Driving Licence card from NTSA
After passing both tests, apply for your Smart Driving Licence (SDL) through TIMS. The SDL is a credit-card format licence with a chip. Fee: KES 3,050 for a 3-year licence. Processing time: 2–4 weeks.
Kenyan Driving Licence Fees
Government fees total approximately KES 5,850 for first-time applicants — driving school fees separate
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Provisional driving licence | KES 600 |
| Driving test fee (theory + practical) | KES 2,500 |
| Smart Driving Licence (3-year) | KES 3,050 |
| Total first-time applicant | ~KES 5,850 |
| Renewal (3-year) | KES 1,050 |
| Renewal (6-year) | KES 1,700 |
| Renewal (10-year) | KES 3,000 |
| Total First-Time (Government Fees) | ~KES 5,850 |
All fees are paid through the eCitizen portal. Driving school costs are separate and vary widely (KES 10,000–35,000+ depending on vehicle class and location). Retake fees apply for failed attempts. The Smart Driving Licence replaced the old paper/booklet licence. IDP is issued by the Automobile Association of Kenya (AA Kenya).
See how ready you are — practice with real exam questions
Try Free QuestionsMinimum age by licence category
- Class A1 — Moped (up to 50cc)16years
- Class A2 — Motorcycle18years
- Class A3 — Taxi motorcycle (boda-boda)Requires PSV licence21years
- Class B1 — Light motor vehicle (manual)Most common licence class18years
- Class B2 — Light motor vehicle (automatic)Restricted to automatic only18years
- Class C1 — Light truck22years
- Class C — Medium truck24years
- Class CE — Heavy truck/trailer28years
- Class D1 — Van (up to 14 passengers)22years
- Class D2 — MinibusRequires PSV licence25years
- Class D3 — Bus (33+ passengers)Requires PSV licence30years
Licence Validity Periods
| Licence / age | Validity |
|---|---|
| Smart Driving Licence (standard)Can also apply for 6-year or 10-year validity | 3 years |
| Provisional licenceMust pass tests within this period | 6 months |
| PSV licence (matatu/bus)Additional requirements for passenger transport | 3 years |
Demerit Points System
- 20-point demerit system launched in 2023
- Points accumulated per traffic offence
- 20 points triggers licence suspension
- Serious offences carry 4–6 demerit points each
- Points reset after a violation-free period
NTSA Licence System
- Model Town Board oral/demonstration test for theory
- Practical driving test with NTSA examiner
- 80% combined pass mark required
- Smart Driving Licence with embedded chip
- Demerit points system (start with 20 points)
Speed Limits in Kenya
As per the Traffic Act Cap. 403 — all speeds in km/h
Kenya's speed limits are set under the Traffic Act Cap. 403: 50 km/h in urban/built-up areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, 100 km/h on single carriageway highways, and 110 km/h on dual carriageway highways. School zones have a reduced limit of 30 km/h. PSVs (matatus, buses) and trucks are limited to a maximum of 80 km/h on all roads, enforced by mandatory speed governors. Speed cameras are increasingly being deployed on major highways, particularly the Nairobi–Mombasa highway (A109) and the Nairobi Expressway.
| Road Type | Cars / Light Vehicles | Motorcycles | PSV / Trucks | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Urban / Built-up area | 50 | 50 | 50 | Default within city/town limits |
| Rural road | 80 | 80 | 80 | Outside built-up areas |
| Highway (single carriageway) | 100 | 100 | 80 | National trunk roads |
| Highway (dual carriageway) | 110 | 110 | 80 | E.g., Nairobi Expressway, Thika Superhighway |
| School zone | 30 | 30 | 30 | Active school hours |
Urban / Built-up area
Cars / Light Vehicles: 50Motorcycles: 50PSV / Trucks: 50Default within city/town limits
Rural road
Cars / Light Vehicles: 80Motorcycles: 80PSV / Trucks: 80Outside built-up areas
Highway (single carriageway)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 100Motorcycles: 100PSV / Trucks: 80National trunk roads
Highway (dual carriageway)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 110Motorcycles: 110PSV / Trucks: 80E.g., Nairobi Expressway, Thika Superhighway
School zone
Cars / Light Vehicles: 30Motorcycles: 30PSV / Trucks: 30Active school hours
PSVs and trucks are limited to 80 km/h on all roads by mandatory speed governors. The speed governor requirement is enforced by NTSA during annual vehicle inspections. Speed cameras are increasingly deployed on major highways. Posted signs always take precedence over general limits.
Traffic Fines & Penalties
As per the Traffic Act Cap. 403 — fines in Kenyan Shillings (KES)
Kenyan traffic fines range from modest amounts for minor infractions to severe penalties for drunk driving and reckless driving. DUI carries the heaviest penalties: fines up to KES 500,000 and/or imprisonment up to 10 years under Section 44. Speeding fines range from KES 10,000 to KES 100,000. An Instant Fines system was launched in early 2026 but was suspended in March 2026 pending review.
Up to KES 5,000KES 5,001–20,000Over KES 20,000By the lowest fine in the range
| Violation | Fine (KES) | Demerits | Criminal Offence? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding (S.42–43) | 10,000–100,000 | 2–6 | Possible |
| DUI / Drunk driving (S.44) | Up to 500,000 | 6 | Yes |
| Reckless driving (S.47) | 20,000–100,000 | 6 | Yes |
| Driving without a licence (S.30) | 7,000+ | 4 | Yes |
| No seatbelt (S.38) | 500–5,000 | 1 | No |
| Running a red light (S.53) | 3,000–5,000 | 3 | No |
| Using mobile phone while driving | 2,000–10,000 | 2 | No |
| No insurance | 10,000+ | 4 | Yes |
- 10,000–100,000Possible
Speeding (S.42–43)
2–6 - Up to 500,000Yes
DUI / Drunk driving (S.44)
6 - 20,000–100,000Yes
Reckless driving (S.47)
6 - 7,000+Yes
Driving without a licence (S.30)
4 - 500–5,000No
No seatbelt (S.38)
1 - 3,000–5,000No
Running a red light (S.53)
3 - 2,000–10,000No
Using mobile phone while driving
2 - 10,000+Yes
No insurance
4
Fines shown are indicative ranges from the Traffic Act Cap. 403. Actual amounts depend on the court and circumstances. Criminal offences may result in imprisonment. The Instant Fines system launched in early 2026 was suspended in March 2026 pending review. DUI for PSV/commercial drivers carries additional penalties including licence revocation.
Know These Rules Before Your Driving Test
Traffic fines, speed limits, and road rules are key topics in the Kenya driving test. Practice with exam-style questions.
How the road worksMandatory, with a penaltyMakes it easier
Drive on the Left
Kenya uses left-hand traffic (inherited from the British colonial era).
Overtake on the right. At roundabouts, traffic flows clockwise. At uncontrolled intersections, yield to traffic from the right.
BAC 0.08% Private / 0.00% PSV
Blood alcohol limit of 0.08% (80mg/100ml blood) for private drivers and zero tolerance (0.00%) for PSV and commercial drivers.
DUI penalties include fines up to KES 500,000 and/or 10 years imprisonment under Traffic Act S.44.
Mandatory Third-Party Insurance
All vehicles must have at least third-party motor insurance.
Driving without insurance is a criminal offence with fines of KES 10,000+. Comprehensive insurance is optional but highly recommended given road conditions and accident rates.
TIMS Vehicle Sticker
All vehicles must have a valid TIMS (Transport Integrated Management System) inspection sticker.
Annual vehicle inspections are mandatory. The sticker confirms the vehicle has passed roadworthiness checks by an authorised inspection centre.
Speed Governors (PSV)
All PSVs (matatus, buses) and commercial vehicles must have speed governors fitted, limiting them to 80 km/h.
NTSA conducts regular inspections. Tampering with a speed governor is a criminal offence.
Phone Use Prohibited
Handheld phone use while driving is prohibited.
Hands-free devices are permitted. Fines range from KES 2,000 to KES 10,000. Phone use is a significant contributing factor in road accidents.
Seatbelts Mandatory
Seatbelts are mandatory for the driver and all passengers (front and rear).
Children must be properly restrained. Fines for non-compliance range from KES 500 to KES 5,000.
Daytime Running Lights
Daytime running lights became mandatory in 2019.
All vehicles must have headlights on at all times while driving, day and night. This regulation aims to improve visibility and reduce head-on collisions.
Demerit Points (20-Point System)
Kenya launched a 20-point demerit system in 2023.
Points are accumulated per traffic offence. Reaching 20 points triggers licence suspension. Serious offences like DUI carry 6 demerit points. Points reset after a violation-free period.
Common Road Hazards in Kenya
4,748 road fatalities in 2024 — know these hazards to stay safe on Kenyan roads
Matatu Sudden Stops
Matatus (minibus PSVs) are the primary public transport mode and frequently stop suddenly and without warning to pick up or drop off passengers. They often block traffic lanes and make unpredictable lane changes. Exercise extreme caution around matatus.
Pedestrians on Highways
Pedestrians walking along and crossing highways is a major hazard, particularly on the Nairobi–Mombasa road and other trunk roads that lack pavements and safe crossing points. Pedestrians account for 38% of all road fatalities.
Boda-Boda Motorcycles
Boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) riders are involved in a significant proportion of road accidents. They frequently weave through traffic, ignore traffic signals, carry excessive passengers or cargo, and ride without proper lighting at night.
Livestock on Roads
Livestock (cattle, goats, donkeys) on roads is common in rural and semi-arid areas, particularly in counties like Kajiado, Laikipia, and the northern corridor. Animals may appear suddenly, especially at dawn and dusk.
Potholes & Poor Roads
Many roads, especially in rural areas and smaller towns, suffer from poor maintenance, large potholes, and lack of road markings. Even some sections of major highways can have dangerous potholes that cause tyre blowouts and loss of control.
Unlit Vehicles at Night
Driving at night is extremely dangerous in Kenya due to many vehicles, especially trucks and carts, operating without functioning lights or reflectors. Combined with poorly lit roads and pedestrians in dark clothing, night driving requires extreme caution.
Kenya's 47 Counties — Key NTSA Testing Centres
Driving licence testing is administered by NTSA centres across the country, with major centres in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret
- 1NairobiNairobi4.4M
- 2MombasaMombasa1.2M
- 3KiambuKiambu2.4M
- 4NakuruNakuru2.2M
- 5Uasin GishuEldoret1.2M
- 6KisumuKisumu1.2M
- 7MachakosMachakos1.4M
- 8KajiadoKajiado1.1M
Kenya has 47 counties, each with at least one NTSA testing centre. Wait times vary significantly — Nairobi and Mombasa often have the longest queues. All applications are processed through the eCitizen/TIMS digital portal, reducing the need for in-person visits for some steps.
Myth: The theory test is a computerised multiple-choice questionnaire like in Europe
Fact: Kenya's theory test is oral and demonstration-based. Candidates use a Model Town Board — a scale model where they move a toy car to show correct driving decisions. They also identify road signs from charts. It is NOT a computer-based MCQ test.
Myth: The highway speed limit is 120 km/h
Fact: The maximum speed limit in Kenya is 110 km/h, and only on dual carriageway highways (e.g., Thika Superhighway). Single carriageway highways are limited to 100 km/h. Rural roads are 80 km/h and urban areas 50 km/h.
Myth: The BAC limit is zero for all drivers
Fact: The BAC limit is 0.08% (80mg/100ml blood) for private drivers — the same as the UK. Zero tolerance (0.00%) applies only to PSV and commercial drivers. However, any impairment while driving is punishable regardless of BAC level.
Myth: Tourists need an International Driving Permit to drive in Kenya
Fact: Tourists can drive in Kenya with a valid foreign driving licence for up to 90 days without an IDP. After 90 days, a Kenyan licence or IDP is required. The licence must be in English or accompanied by an official translation.
Myth: Night driving on highways is safe because roads are well-lit
Fact: Night driving in Kenya is extremely dangerous. Most highways are not lit, many vehicles (especially trucks and carts) operate without functioning lights, pedestrians walk on roads in dark clothing, and wildlife/livestock may be on the road. Avoid night driving whenever possible.
Myth: An ambulance will arrive quickly anywhere in Kenya
Fact: Ambulance response times outside major cities (Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu) are extremely limited. In rural areas, emergency medical services may take hours to arrive or may not be available at all. The Red Cross (1199) operates the most extensive ambulance network but coverage is still limited.
Instant Fines system launched and suspended
The NTSA Instant Fines system was launched in early 2026, allowing traffic officers to issue on-the-spot fines via digital devices. However, the system was suspended in March 2026 pending review after public concerns about implementation and potential abuse.
Second-generation Smart Driving Licence approved
NTSA approved the second-generation Smart Driving Licence with enhanced security features, including an upgraded chip and biometric data. The new SDL began rolling out to replace expiring first-generation licences.
Traffic (Drink-Driving) Rules updated
Updated Traffic Rules strengthened drink-driving enforcement provisions, including mandatory breathalyser testing at roadblocks and enhanced penalties for repeat offenders. Zero tolerance for PSV/commercial drivers reaffirmed.
Demerit points system launched
NTSA launched the 20-point demerit system. Drivers accumulate points for traffic offences, with 20 points triggering licence suspension. The system is integrated with TIMS for digital tracking of offences.
NTSA digital services expansion
NTSA expanded digital services through the eCitizen/TIMS portal, allowing online applications for provisional licences, driving test bookings, licence renewals, and vehicle inspections. Reduced in-person visits to NTSA offices.
Daytime running lights mandatory
NTSA made daytime running lights mandatory for all vehicles. All vehicles must drive with headlights on at all times (day and night) to improve visibility and reduce head-on collisions on Kenya's often narrow and winding roads.
How Kenya Compares Globally
Kenya's driving regulations compared to other countries — data compiled from official government sources
StrictestIn betweenMost lenientBAC limit and minimum age
| Parameter | Kenya | South Africa | Tanzania |  Uganda |  UK |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAC Limit | 0.08% | 0.05% | 0.08% | 0.08% | 0.08% |
| Min. Age (Car) | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 17 |
| Driving Side | Left | Left | Left | Left | Left |
| Highway Speed | 110 | 120 | 80 | 100 | 112 |
| Test Format | ~30 | 64 | ~30 | ~25 | 50 |
| Licence Cost | ~KES 5K | ~ZAR 2K | ~TZS 40K | ~UGX 200K | ~£200+ |
| Road Deaths/yr | ~4,748 | ~12,000 | ~4,000 | ~3,500 | 1,695 |
| Deaths/100K (WHO) | ~28 | ~20.7 | ~16.7 | ~14 | 2.9 |
BAC Limit
Kenya: 0.08%South Africa: 0.05%Tanzania: 0.08%Uganda: 0.08%UK: 0.08%Min. Age (Car)
Kenya: 18South Africa: 18Tanzania: 18Uganda: 18UK: 17Driving Side
Kenya: LeftSouth Africa: LeftTanzania: LeftUganda: LeftUK: LeftHighway Speed
Kenya: 110South Africa: 120Tanzania: 80Uganda: 100UK: 112Test Format
Kenya: ~30South Africa: 64Tanzania: ~30Uganda: ~25UK: 50Licence Cost
Kenya: ~KES 5KSouth Africa: ~ZAR 2KTanzania: ~TZS 40KUganda: ~UGX 200KUK: ~£200+Road Deaths/yr
Kenya: ~4,748South Africa: ~12,000Tanzania: ~4,000Uganda: ~3,500UK: 1,695Deaths/100K (WHO)
Kenya: ~28South Africa: ~20.7Tanzania: ~16.7Uganda: ~14UK: 2.9
Kenya
Same as India (0.03% effective). South Africa 0.05%. Nigeria 0.05%. Tanzania 0.08%.
Same across all compared countries: 18 years.
South Africa 120. Nigeria 120. Tanzania 80. India 120 km/h.
Government fees only. South Africa ~ZAR 500–2K. Nigeria ~NGN 20K. Tanzania ~TZS 50K. India ~INR 1,500.
WHO rate 28/100K — South Africa 20.7, Nigeria 21.4, Tanzania 16.7, India 12.1 per 100K.
Road deaths: Kenya 4,748 (NTSA 2024), South Africa 11,883 (RTMC 2023), Nigeria ~35,000 (WHO est.), Tanzania ~4,000 (WHO est.), India ~172,000 (MoRTH 2023). Per-capita WHO rates: Kenya 28, South Africa 20.7, Nigeria 21.4, Tanzania 16.7, India 12.1 per 100K.
Primary Sources
Verification Methodology
Every fact on this page has been cross-referenced against at least two authoritative sources. Our process:
- 1Primary data collected from Kenyan legislation (Traffic Act Cap. 403) and NTSA publications
- 2Cross-verified against NTSA annual reports, Kenya Law database, and WHO reports
- 3County-level variations noted where applicable (testing centre availability and wait times differ)
- 4Page reviewed and fact-checked on April 6, 2026
If you find an error, please contact us so we can correct it immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a driving licence cost in Kenya?
Government fees total approximately KES 5,850: provisional licence KES 600, driving test fee KES 2,500, and Smart Driving Licence (3-year) KES 3,050. Driving school fees are separate and range from KES 10,000–35,000+ depending on vehicle class and location. Renewal costs: 3-year KES 1,050, 6-year KES 1,700, 10-year KES 3,000.
What is the format of Kenya's driving theory test?
Kenya's theory test is oral and demonstration-based, not a computer-based MCQ. Candidates use a Model Town Board — a scale model where they move a toy car to demonstrate correct driving decisions at junctions, roundabouts, and other scenarios. They also identify road signs from charts. Approximately 20 questions, 80% pass mark (16/20). Duration ~30 minutes. Fee KES 2,500.
What is the blood alcohol limit in Kenya?
The BAC limit is 0.08% (80mg/100ml blood) for private drivers and 0.00% (zero tolerance) for PSV and commercial drivers. DUI penalties under Traffic Act S.44 include fines up to KES 500,000 and/or imprisonment up to 10 years.
What are the speed limits in Kenya?
Urban areas: 50 km/h. Rural roads: 80 km/h. Highway (single carriageway): 100 km/h. Highway (dual carriageway): 110 km/h. School zones: 30 km/h. PSVs and trucks: 80 km/h max on all roads (enforced by mandatory speed governors). Posted signs always take precedence.
What are the emergency numbers in Kenya?
Police: 999. Emergency from mobile: 112. Red Cross Ambulance: 1199. NTSA Helpline: 0800-723-323. All available 24/7, though response times outside major cities may be limited.
Can tourists drive in Kenya?
Yes. Tourists can drive with a valid foreign driving licence for up to 90 days without needing an International Driving Permit. After 90 days, an IDP or Kenyan licence is required. The licence must be in English or accompanied by an official translation. Drive on the left.
What are the licence classes in Kenya?
Main classes: A1 (moped, 16 years), A2 (motorcycle, 18), A3 (taxi motorcycle, 21), B1 (manual car, 18), B2 (automatic car, 18), C1 (light truck, 22), C (medium truck, 24), CE (heavy truck, 28), D1 (van up to 14 passengers, 22), D2 (minibus, 25), D3 (bus 33+ passengers, 30).
How long is a Kenyan driving licence valid?
The Smart Driving Licence is available in 3-year (KES 3,050), 6-year (KES 1,700 renewal), and 10-year (KES 3,000 renewal) validity periods. Renewal does not require retesting. The provisional licence is valid for 6 months.
How do I renew my Kenyan driving licence?
Renewal is done through the eCitizen/TIMS portal. Upload a new passport photo, pay the renewal fee online (3-year KES 1,050, 6-year KES 1,700, 10-year KES 3,000), and collect the new Smart Driving Licence from your nearest NTSA office. No retesting required.
What is a speed governor and do I need one?
A speed governor is a device that limits a vehicle's maximum speed to 80 km/h. It is mandatory for all PSVs (matatus, buses) and commercial vehicles in Kenya. Private vehicles do not require speed governors. Tampering with a speed governor is a criminal offence.
Is driving at night safe in Kenya?
Night driving in Kenya is extremely dangerous and should be avoided whenever possible. Hazards include: unlit vehicles and pedestrians, livestock on roads, potholes not visible at night, and limited emergency services in rural areas. If you must drive at night, reduce speed significantly and use high beams when no oncoming traffic is present.
What is the demerit points system?
Kenya launched a 20-point demerit system in 2023. Points are accumulated for traffic offences (e.g., DUI = 6 points, speeding = 2–6 points). Reaching 20 points triggers licence suspension. The system is tracked digitally through TIMS. Points reset after a violation-free period.
Do I need an International Driving Permit for Kenya?
Tourists with a valid foreign driving licence can drive in Kenya for up to 90 days without an IDP. After 90 days, you need either an IDP or a Kenyan licence. IDPs are issued by the Automobile Association of Kenya (AA Kenya) for approximately KES 9,000.
Is vehicle insurance mandatory in Kenya?
Yes. Third-party motor insurance is mandatory for all vehicles. Driving without insurance is a criminal offence with fines of KES 10,000+. Comprehensive insurance is optional but highly recommended given Kenya's road conditions and high accident rates.
What documents must I carry while driving in Kenya?
You must carry: valid Smart Driving Licence (or provisional licence), national ID or passport, vehicle logbook (or certified copy), valid insurance certificate, and TIMS inspection sticker must be displayed on the vehicle. PSV drivers must also carry a valid PSV licence.
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