NTSA Driving License Application Fees

Obtaining a driving license in Kenya involves several stages, each with its own fee payable through the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) platform. Understanding the applicable charges helps learners, new drivers, and motorists plan their budgets and complete the licensing process without unexpected expenses. The NTSA has digitized most licensing services through the eCitizen and NTSA portals, making it easier for applicants to apply, pay fees, and track their applications online. The introduction of the Smart Driving License has also changed the fee structure for both new applications and renewals.

Current NTSA Driving License Fees

Service	Fee (KES)
Provisional Driving Licence (PDL)	600
Driving Test Booking	600
Smart Driving Licence Application	3,050
Smart Driving Licence Renewal (3 Years)	3,050
Replacement of Lost/Damaged Smart Licence	3,050
eCitizen Processing Fee	Included in Smart DL charges

The Smart Driving Licence fee includes the card processing and issuance charges. Applicants are required to complete payment before proceeding to biometric enrollment at designated NTSA centers.

Breakdown of the Application Process

1. Provisional Driving Licence (PDL)

Before enrolling in a driving school, a learner must obtain a Provisional Driving Licence. This licence authorizes a learner to undergo practical driving lessons under supervision. The current PDL fee is KES 600 per class of vehicle. Applicants can apply through the NTSA portal using their National ID and other personal details.

2. Driving Test Fee

After completing driving school training, candidates must book and sit for the NTSA driving test. The booking fee is KES 600. The driving test evaluates both theoretical knowledge and practical driving skills. Candidates who pass become eligible to apply for a Smart Driving Licence.

3. Smart Driving Licence Application

Successful candidates are required to apply for a Smart Driving Licence. The current fee is KES 3,050. The Smart Driving Licence is a chip-enabled card that securely stores driver information and allows easier verification by traffic authorities. Once payment is made, applicants are required to visit an NTSA enrollment center for biometric capture, including fingerprints and a digital photograph.

Estimated Total Cost for First-Time Applicants

The table below summarizes the government fees payable by a first-time applicant.

Item	Fee (KES)
Provisional Driving Licence	600
Driving Test Booking	600
Smart Driving Licence	3,050
Total Government Fees	4,250

These figures exclude driving school tuition fees, which vary depending on the institution and vehicle class selected. Driving school costs may range from KES 10,000 to over KES 30,000 depending on the training package.

Smart Driving Licence Renewal Fees

Drivers must ensure their licences remain valid by renewing them before expiry.

Renewal Period	Fee (KES)
Smart Driving Licence Renewal	3,050

Renewal applications are submitted online through the NTSA and eCitizen systems. Motorists may be required to provide updated biometric information depending on NTSA requirements at the time of renewal.

Replacement Fees

Drivers who lose their Smart Driving Licence or have a damaged card can apply for a replacement through the NTSA portal.

Service	Fee (KES)
Replacement Smart Licence	3,050

Applicants must provide identification details and complete the prescribed online application before a replacement card can be processed.

How to Pay NTSA Licence Fees

NTSA accepts payments through the government eCitizen platform. Available payment methods include:

M-Pesa
Debit and credit cards
Bank transfers
Pesaflow
Airtel Money

Upon successful payment, applicants receive an official payment receipt which should be retained for reference during the application process. Understanding NTSA driving licence application fees enables motorists to prepare adequately for every stage of the licensing process. Whether applying for a new licence, renewing an existing one, or replacing a lost card, knowing the applicable charges helps ensure a smooth and efficient experience when dealing with NTSA services.

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