The Kenya government introduced the smart driving license in April 2018 to replace the old-generation booklet-like license. The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has proposed a new regulation contained in the National Road Safety Action Plan 2024-2028, to phase out all old driving licenses thereby enforcing all motorists to switch to the smart driving license within three years from 2023. It is only wise for every motorist to apply for a smart driving license as soon as possible.
For easy registration and collection of the smart driving license, the NTSA partnered with Huduma to carry out the smart driving license processes. Biometric capturing and collection of the smart driving license are performed at various Huduma centers nationwide.
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This is a step-by-step guide on applying for a smart driving license in 2024 and upgrading to the smart DL if you have the old license.
What is a smart card driving License?
The smart driving license is embedded with a microprocessor chip that holds the driver’s information and supports implementing a demerit point system. The card is made of plastic that fits in a wallet like a bank debit card, and printed on it is your full name, license number, date of birth, date of issue, date of expiry, blood group, sex, and country of residence.
The smart driving license card supports the implementation of a demerit point system and can facilitate the payment of instant fines. When the card is issued to individuals, each card starts with 100 points and these points are deducted whenever the individual violates any road rules. When an individual violates many rules and points are deducted up to 40 points which is the threshold, the license is automatically cancelled. This is done to ensure that motorists follow basic road regulations to enhance road safety throughout the country.
How to Register/Login on the NTSA TIMS Portal
The NTSA TIMS portal has been replaced with a new portal called the NTSA service portal. To apply for a smart driving license in 2024, you have to log in to the NTSA service portal. The NTSA service portal allows you access to various services regarding transport and road safety including vehicle registration, vehicle inspection, driving license, and many others. You are not required to register for an NTSA service account if you have an eCitizen account. You will only need to register for an eCitizen account if you don’t have one to log in to the NTSA service portal. Here is how to log in to the service portal;
How to Apply for a Smart Driving License in Kenya
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has a dedicated online portal called Service Portal, where you can initiate your smart driving license application process. Follow these steps:
Total Time: 20 minutes
1. Log in to the NTSA Service Portal
First, log in to the NTSA service portal using your eCitizen login details.
2. Click on ‘Apply for a Driving License’
Next, click on ‘Apply for a driving license.
3. Click on ‘Application For Provisional Driving License’
Next, click on Application for ‘Provisional Driving License’ for new applicants. If you already have a license and want to upgrade to the smart DL, then click on Renew.
4. Enter your Personal information
Here you will have to enter your personal information such as your Full name, ID number, gender, blood group, country of residence, nationality, place of birth, and date of birth, and choose your nearest Huduma center for biometrics and driving license collection. Lastly, you will also choose the kind of license you want to apply for
5. Make Payment
The next step will require you to make a payment. The application fee is KES 3050 for a three-year driving license. After your payment is completed, click on Confirm to continue.
6. Download Receipt
After successful payment, you will be redirected to a page with your payment receipt. click the print button, then save to download a PDF of the receipt for reference purposes. After you’ve downloaded the receipt, return to the previous page and then click the submit button.
Go for Biometrics
Take a printout of your payment receipt and head to your selected location for biometrics at the appointed date and time. You should know that you can always reschedule your appointment date/time through the service portal. To reschedule or book an appointment, you need to log in to your NTSA account and then select Smart DL appointment. An SMS will be sent to you when your appointment time/date is ready. NTSA is doing this so that, the queue will not be long when you arrive at the location.
Documents Needed For Driving License Application
Before you begin the application process, make sure you have the following documents on hand, they will be used to register for the TIMS account, for those who don’t have an account or/and when doing biometrics:
- National Identification Card (ID) or Passport: Proof of your identity as a Kenyan citizen.
- Current Driving License (If Applicable): If you already have a driving license, you may be required to surrender it during the application process.
- Digital Passport Size Photo: A recent passport-sized photograph meeting the specified requirements.
- Proof of Payment: This may be required at the selected location for biometrics.
How long does it take to get a smart driving license?
Biometric capturing marks the end of the application process. After taking your biometric, the smart driving license takes between 2-3 weeks before it’s ready for collection.
Conclusion:
Obtaining a smart driving license in Kenya has been made simpler and more efficient with the introduction of the NTSA Service portal. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can navigate the application process with ease. Remember to stay updated with any changes or requirements on the official NTSA website. By adhering to the regulations and embracing the benefits of smart driving licenses, you contribute to a safer and more organized road environment for everyone.
