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How to Renew Your Driving License in Kenya (2025 NTSA Guide for Old and Smart DL Holders)

How to Renew Your Driving License in Kenya (2025 NTSA Guide for Old and Smart DL Holders)

Introduction: How to Renew a Driving License in Kenya in 2025

Whether you are still using the old red booklet or you have upgraded to the Smart Driving License (Smart DL), renewing your driving license in Kenya is now fully digitized through the NTSA portal on eCitizen.

But with new rules on biometric verification, changing fees, and stricter enforcement, it can be confusing to know exactly what to do—especially in 2025.

This updated guide covers:

  • ✅ How to renew an old red booklet license
  • ✅ How to renew a Smart Driving License
  • ✅ The cost, requirements, and collection process
  • ✅ Common mistakes to avoid

🧾 What Do You Need to Renew Your Driving License in Kenya?

To renew any Kenyan driving license in 2025, you’ll need:

  • A working eCitizen account: https://accounts.ecitizen.go.ke
  • Your National ID number
  • Your current driving license details (number, class)
  • A passport-sized photo (JPG or JPEG format)
  • Payment method (M-Pesa, mobile banking, or card)

📕 How to Renew the Old Red Booklet Driving License in Kenya

Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Log into eCitizen
    Go to https://accounts.ecitizen.go.ke and sign in using your ID number and password.
  2. Select NTSA Services
    Under NTSA, choose “Driving License Renewal”.
  3. Enter License Details
    Provide your DL number, class of vehicle, place of birth, and blood group.
  4. Upload Passport Photo
    Upload a clear recent passport photo (JPEG format).
  5. Choose Renewal Duration
    • 1-year renewal – KES 650
    • 3-year renewal – KES 1,400
  6. Make Payment
    Use M-Pesa or other provided payment methods.
  7. Download and Print Renewal Slip
    This acts as proof of renewal until the license is physically updated.

📝 Note: The red booklet is being phased out. NTSA encourages all drivers to transition to Smart DLs for full compliance.

💳 How to Renew a Smart Driving License (Smart DL) in Kenya

Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Log in to the NTSA Portal
    Access https://ntsa.ecitizen.go.ke using your eCitizen login.
  2. Navigate to Smart DL Services
    Choose “Driving License” > “Renew Smart DL”.
  3. Select Renewal Period
    Only the 3-year option is available: KES 3,050.
  4. Make Payment
    Complete the payment using M-Pesa or card.
  5. Biometric Appointment (If Required)
    • Book an appointment at a nearby NTSA office or Huduma Centre.
    • Bring your ID and payment receipt.
  6. Collect Your Renewed Smart DL
    Once ready, NTSA will notify you by SMS. Collection is done in person at your chosen center.

📅 How Long Does Driving License Renewal Take in Kenya?

  • Red booklet renewal: Instant once paid, but booklet upgrades are slow.
  • Smart DL renewal: 2–4 weeks (may be longer in busy centers).
  • Biometric appointments: Usually available within 7–14 days.

🔁 Tip: Renew your license at least one month before expiry to avoid delays or fines.

💡 Common Questions About DL Renewal in 2025

Q1. Can I still renew the red booklet license in 2025?
✔️ Yes, but NTSA strongly encourages upgrading to Smart DLs. The red booklets may be phased out completely soon.

Q2. What if I lost my license?
You will need to apply for a duplicate license first, then renew it.

Q3. Do I need to visit NTSA in person?
Only if you have not registered your biometric data, or if you’re converting from the red booklet to Smart DL.

Q4. Can I renew from outside Kenya?
Yes, but you’ll still need to collect the Smart DL in person once processed.

🛡️ Tips to Avoid Delays or Scams

  • Only use the official eCitizen and NTSA websites
  • Avoid agents claiming to “fast-track” renewals for a fee
  • Book biometric appointments early—slots fill quickly
  • Always keep your eCitizen payment receipts

✅ Final Word

Renewing your driving license in Kenya in 2025—whether it's the old red booklet or the Smart DL—is now a clear and efficient process if you follow the right steps. With KES 3,050 for 3 years on the Smart DL and phased-out booklet renewals, it’s smart to make the switch early and avoid last-minute rushes.

Remember! If you need financial assistance contact us through our contact form, call us on +254791573231 or visit one of our branches  across Nairobi, Kiambu, Machakos, and Kajiado counties to explore your financial opportunities

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