The Government of Kenya, through Huduma Kenya and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), has made smart driving licence biometric services available at 15 Huduma Centres nationwide. This new service makes it easier for motorists to apply for or upgrade to the modern Smart Driving Licence without long travel.
In Nairobi, the services are offered at the General Post Office (GPO) Huduma Centre and Kibra. Other counties with the service include Mombasa, Kisumu, Nyeri, Garissa, Machakos, Embu, Meru, Kakamega, Eldoret, Thika, Kericho, Nakuru, and Kisii.
The Smart Driving Licence is a secure, card-based licence. It has a microchip that stores biometric data, a digital photo, signature, driver class, and traffic offence record. It replaces the old red booklet licence and integrates with NTSA’s Transport Integrated Management System (TIMS). This makes verification easier for law enforcement and other agencies.
To apply, motorists must register or log in to the NTSA TIMS portal using their National ID, KRA PIN, and phone number. Applicants then select the option to apply for or renew a Smart Driving Licence and pay the processing fee. After payment, they can book a biometric appointment at a Huduma Centre.
At the appointment, applicants must bring their National ID, old driving licence (if upgrading), and payment receipt. NTSA officials will capture fingerprints, a digital photo, signature, and other biometric data. Once processed, applicants receive an SMS when their Smart Driving Licence is ready for collection.
The three-year Smart Driving Licence costs Sh3,050. This covers application, processing, and issuance. Renewal carries the same fee. Motorists are advised to ensure their TIMS account is active and all documents are ready before the appointment. Early booking is recommended since biometric services are available at selected Huduma Centres only.
