How to Transition From Red Driving License to NTSA's Smart Driving License and Charges Involved

In 2024, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) launched a national strategic action plan that detailed the planned phase-out of the old driving licence (red booklet).

As revealed in the National Road Safety Action Plan, all drivers in Kenya will be required to transition to the new driver's license (smart license) within 3 years.

According to the authority, the planned phase-out is aimed at helping the authority implement the instant fines for traffic offences.

"Having established all legal requirements for regulating driving schools and instructors, a much stronger compliance program will now be initiated for driver training and testing," read the report in part.

"This will include establishing a three-year time period within which all drivers will need to have converted to the new driver's licence, and all old licences will be legally void."

Here is the detailed process on how to transition from the red booklet license to the Smart Driving License

1. Log in to their E-citizen account.
2. Select the NTSA service portal (New).
3. Enter the codes, which are sent to your phone, to verify that you are logging into your account.
4. Applicants are then taken to a new page where they will be required to fill in their details.
5. For those who have the old licences, some of the details will automatically be filled in. However, other details such as the residence and physical address will be required.
6. One important area to be filled is the center where one will go for their biometrics to be taken, and these are usually the NTSA offices and Huduma Centers.
7. Preview the details for accuracy.
8. Make the payment and submit your application. The application fee is Ksh3,050.
9. Select the collection location and book the date when your biometrics will be taken. When going for the biometrics, carry your original ID card for identification and verification purposes.

Processing of a smart license takes 5 working days.

Also Read: Police Powers Under the Traffic Act

How to Renew an Expired Smart Driving License

Smart Driving Licences are usually valid for 3 years, and motorists are required to renew them after three years at a fee of Ksh3,050.

1. Log in to their E-citizen account
2. Select the NTSA service portal (New)
3. Enter the codes
4. Click on Driving Licence renewal
5. Click on type, select smart DL (3 years)
6. Enter the required information, and click on renew
7. Make payments
8. Await SMS notification

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