Types of Driving Licenses in Kenya

In Kenya, driving licenses are issued by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to individuals who meet the required qualifications for operating different types of vehicles. The licensing system is designed to ensure that all drivers are competent and adhere to traffic laws, enhancing road safety. Driving licenses in Kenya vary depending on the category of the vehicle an individual intends to operate. Each license type is classified according to the nature of the vehicle and the level of expertise required to handle it. Below is a list of types of driving licenses in Kenya.

Learner’s Driving License

Before obtaining a full driving license, new drivers are issued a learner’s driving license. This document allows them to practice under the supervision of a licensed instructor. The learner’s license is valid for three months, during which the individual must complete a driving course from a recognized driving school and pass the NTSA driving test. Learners must display the “L” sign on their vehicles to indicate that they are still under training.

Motor Vehicle Driving Licenses

Driving licenses in Kenya are categorized into different classes based on the type of vehicle an individual is authorized to operate. The NTSA classifies driving licenses into several groups to regulate the operation of private, commercial, and public service vehicles.

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Class A is issued to individuals who wish to operate motorcycles and three-wheeled vehicles. This category includes both private and commercial motorcycles. Riders must undergo training in motorcycle safety and handling before being issued a license.

Class B is for drivers of light vehicles, including personal cars and small vans. This category is the most common and is issued to private motorists who drive vehicles with a capacity of up to seven passengers.

Class C covers commercial light trucks and pickups. It is designed for drivers operating light-duty commercial vehicles that transport goods rather than passengers.

Class D is issued to drivers of heavier vehicles such as lorries, trucks, and trailers. These vehicles require specialized training due to their size and weight. Class D is further subdivided into different sections depending on the specific type of heavy vehicle, including articulated trucks and tankers.

Class E applies to individuals who wish to drive buses and public transport vehicles. This category requires additional certification and experience, as it involves transporting passengers. Public service vehicle (PSV) drivers must also obtain a PSV badge, which is a special endorsement from NTSA confirming their suitability to operate public transport vehicles.

Special Driving Licenses

Apart from the standard motor vehicle categories, Kenya has specialized driving licenses for unique vehicle operations.

Class F is designated for individuals who operate heavy construction equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, and cranes. These vehicles are not commonly used on public roads, but they require professional training due to their complexity.

Class G is issued to operators of agricultural machinery, including tractors and other farm-related vehicles. Farmers and agricultural workers who need to transport goods using these machines must obtain a Class G license.

Class H is for individuals who drive special purpose vehicles such as forklifts and industrial machinery used in warehouses and factories.

Endorsements and Upgrades

Drivers who wish to upgrade their licenses to a higher category must undergo additional training and pass an NTSA test. For instance, a driver with a Class B license who wants to operate a truck must upgrade to Class D by completing a heavy vehicle driving course. Public transport drivers must also obtain the necessary endorsements, such as the PSV badge, to be allowed to carry passengers.

Digital Driving License

The NTSA has introduced a smart driving license, which is a digital version of the traditional driving license. This new license comes with a chip that stores the driver’s details, including their driving history, demerit points, and traffic offenses. The digital driving license enhances road safety by allowing traffic authorities to track driver behavior and enforce penalties for repeated violations.