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Smart DL Application: 2 Easy Ways to Apply for Smart Driving License

This is how to apply for a smart driving license or Smart DL in Kenya. You must have an eCitizen account to start. If you do not have, please go ahead and open one free of charge.

The eCitizen platform is a one-stop shop for government services from departments such as National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) which is in charge of issuing and renewing driving licenses as well as registering car number plates.

These are the documents you need to apply for smart DL on eCitizen:

  • Your KRA PIN
  • Your phone and phone number
  • KES 3,100 in your MPESA

1. Simple Steps to Apply for Smart DL on eCitizen

This is the step-by-step process of getting your Smart DL. It is a very simple process:

  1. Log into your eCitizen account. A One Time Password (OTP) will be sent to your phone or email. So, make sure you have instant access to the phone number you used to register with. Use the password to confirm login.
  2. Click on NTSA. The system will generate a new pass code and send it to your phone or email, whichever you choose. Insert the code immediately since it expires in 5 minutes.
  3. Look for the option to Apply for Smart Driving License. Click on it.
  4. In the form that appears, enter the following: Place of Birth (as per your ID), Country of Residence, Physical Address (Name of place where you stay), KRA PIN, Blood Group (if you do not know, write Unknown), Biometrics Centre (the nearest Huduma Kenya centre where you will go for biometrics).
smart dl kenya pic front and back
Photo/ Courtesy @ma3route

Once you have finished filling in the form click Next, where you will be directed to payments through MPESA.

Once you have sent your application, please make sure to go to the Huduma Kenya Centre that you chose for your biometrics, otherwise your Smart DL will not be processed.

Your Smart DL will be ready in a few days, with a maximum of 30 days. An SMS will be sent to your phone to confirm pickup.

Meanwhile, before you pic the hard copy of the driving license, you can download the soft copy DL which you can legally use in the meantime.

2. Apply for Smart DL at Huduma Centre

Alternatively, this is the second way how to apply for Smart DL in Kenya. Go to any Huduma Kenya Centre of your choice with the following items and information:

#Original and copies of your ID, Phone number, KRA PIN and KES 3,100 in your MPESA.

The NTSA agents at the centre will assist you to apply for the smart driving license. Your biometrics will be taken there and then. Afterwards wait for the SMS to confirm if it is ready for pickup.

The Smart DL expires after three years, and you have to renew the driving license by following this process if you are a commercial driver.

FAQs:

1. How long does Smart DL take to be ready?

A Smart DL should be ready within two weeks and a maximum of 30 days from the date of application. You receive a SMS on the phone number you registered with once the driving license is ready for pickup.

2. How do I know if my Smart DL is ready?

Once the Smart DL is ready, you will be notified through an SMS on the phone number you used to apply. You will pic the driving license at the Huduma Kenya centre where you applied for it.

3. What is the Smart driving license renewal fee?

The current Smart DL renewal fee is KES 3050. However, you must ensure you have KES 3100 in your MPESA account to cater for the money transfer service fee.

4. How do I check my Driving License expiry status?

To check your driving license expiry status, simply send the word DL and your ID Number to 25400. For example: DL 11122233. You will receive a notification of the status of your driving license.

5. NTSA Smart DL collection

When you receive the notification that your driving license is ready, you will collect it from the centre or Huduma Centre that you chose when applying.

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The Lead KE is a web communications service based in Nairobi, Kenya. We offer in depth articles and news on technology, business, travel, culture and climate. The blog mainly covers Kenya and the East African region. Send queries, press releases and tips to theleadkenya@gmail.com