A driving licence in Kenya gives you legal permission to operate a specific class of vehicle, but it doesn’t automatically let you drive every type of vehicle on the road. As your driving needs change, you may want to move from driving a private car to riding a motorcycle, operating a light commercial vehicle, driving a heavy truck, or using another vehicle category. In such cases, your current licence may not be sufficient, and you will need to upgrade your driving licence class through the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).
The licence upgrade process is meant to confirm that you have the necessary skills and qualifications to operate the new vehicle class safely. Instead of applying for a completely new driving licence, eligible drivers can add another class to their existing licence by completing the required training, taking the necessary tests, and submitting an application through NTSA.
In this article, we will guide you through:
- What Is a Driving Licence Class Upgrade in Kenya?
- NTSA Driving Licence Class Categories in Kenya
- Requirements for Adding a New Driving Class in Kenya
- How to Upgrade or Add a New Class to Your Driving Licence in Kenya (NTSA)
- Step 1: Enrol at an NTSA-Registered Driving School
- Step 2: Log In to eCitizen and Access the NTSA Portal
- Step 3: Apply for a Provisional Driving Licence (PDL) for the New Class
- Step 4: Book and Pay for Your Driving Test
- Step 5: Sit the Theory and Practical Test
- Step 6: Complete the Class Endorsement and Apply for an Updated Smart Driving Licence
- Step 7: Collect and Verify Your Updated Licence
- Official NTSA Driving Licence Upgrade Fees (2026 Breakdown)
- NTSA Driving Licence Upgrade Processing Time
- Frequently Asked Questions on NTSA Driving Licence Class Upgrades
- Can I Upgrade My Driving Licence Class Online in Kenya?
- How Do I Add Another Class to my Driving Licence in Kenya?
- Do I Need to Take a Driving Test When Upgrading my Licence?
- How Long Does a Driving Licence Class Upgrade Take?
- Can I Upgrade From One Class Directly to Another?
- Can I Upgrade my Driving Licence Without Going to NTSA Offices?
- What Happens if My Application is Rejected?
- Conclusion
What Is a Driving Licence Class Upgrade in Kenya?
Upgrading a driving licence class in Kenya means adding a new vehicle category to your existing driving licence, which gives you legal permission to operate vehicles in that additional class. For example, if you already have a Class B licence and want to drive a vehicle that falls under Class C1, you need to obtain the relevant class endorsement. Upgrading is therefore different from renewing a driving licence. Renewal only extends the validity of your current licence, while an upgrade allows you to drive additional types of vehicles legally.
Read Also: How to Conduct an NTSA Motor Vehicle Search in Kenya via eCitizen (2026)
NTSA Driving Licence Class Categories in Kenya
Kenya’s driving licence system is divided into classes, each indicating the type of vehicle a driver is legally allowed to operate. Before upgrading your licence, understand what each class covers so you can choose the category that matches the vehicle you want to drive. The main classes and vehicle categories include the following:
a) Class A – Motorcycles
This class covers motorcycles, including mopeds and other two-wheeled motor vehicles.
b) Class B1 – Light Vehicles
Class B1 covers light vehicles such as small passenger cars. It may apply to vehicles with either manual or automatic transmission, depending on the specific licence entitlement.
c) Class B2 – Light Automatic Vehicles
This class is for drivers who are authorized to operate light vehicles fitted with an automatic transmission.
d) Class C1 – Light Trucks
Class C1 covers light commercial vehicles, including small trucks, lorries and vans that meet the requirements of this category.
e) Class D1 – Passenger Service Vehicles
This class covers passenger-carrying vehicles such as minibuses and matatus, subject to the applicable licensing requirements.
f) Class G – Special Types
Class G covers special types of vehicles and machinery, including tractors and heavy equipment used for specific purposes.
Requirements for Adding a New Driving Class in Kenya
Before applying to add another driving class, you need to meet the requirements for the particular category you want to obtain. These requirements may vary by class, especially for commercial vehicles, heavy vehicles, and passenger service vehicles. Nyakundis’ report on driving class endorsement highlights the following requirements.
a) A Valid Existing Driving Licence
You must already have a driving licence for the class from which you are progressing. The licence should be valid and show the appropriate existing class required for the upgrade.
b) Meet the Minimum Age Requirement
The minimum age depends on the class you are applying for. Some commercial and passenger-service categories may have higher age requirements, so you should confirm the age requirement for the class you want before applying.
c) Required Driving Experience
Some higher vehicle classes require you to have held a lower class for a specified period before upgrading. For example, upgrading from Class C1 (light commercial vehicles) to Class C (medium commercial vehicles) may require you to have held Class C1 for a specified period and met other NTSA requirements.
d) Training From a Registered Driving School
You are required to complete the relevant training for the new vehicle category. This training gives you the skills and knowledge needed to operate the vehicle before you take the applicable NTSA test.
e) Medical Certificate
Some professional or passenger-service driving categories may require a medical examination or certificate. For example, certain PSV categories require a valid medical certificate.
f) Payment of the Applicable NTSA Fee
The NTSA service currently lists KES 550 for endorsing additional classes on a driving licence. However, additional fees are required to ensure your driving licence is updated. We explain these fees later in this article; check them out.
How to Upgrade or Add a New Class to Your Driving Licence in Kenya (NTSA)
Upgrading your driving licence means adding a new vehicle class, also called an endorsement, to your existing Smart Driving Licence. The process involves applying online through eCitizen and the NTSA portal, followed by a driving test conducted by NTSA.
Must Read: Before taking the test, you must enrol at an NTSA-registered driving school and complete the required training for the new vehicle class.
Step 1: Enrol at an NTSA-Registered Driving School
- Choose a driving school that is officially registered with NTSA.
- Complete the required theory and practical lessons for the new vehicle class you want to add.
Step 2: Log In to eCitizen and Access the NTSA Portal
- Visit the eCitizen website and sign in to your account.
- On your dashboard, click NTSA Services or New NTSA Portal.
- The system will direct you to the NTSA Service Portal.
Step 3: Apply for a Provisional Driving Licence (PDL) for the New Class
- On the NTSA portal, open the Driving Licence services section.
- Select Application for Provisional Driving Licence.
- Choose the new vehicle class you want to add.
- Enter the required details and submit your application.
- Pay the stated fee of KES 650.
- Print your Provisional Driving Licence slip, which is valid for three months.
Step 4: Book and Pay for Your Driving Test
- After completing your training, log in to the NTSA portal again.
- Select Driving Test Booking or Test Booking for Class Endorsement.
- Choose the test for the new vehicle class.
- Select your preferred NTSA Driver Testing Unit, test date, and time.
- Pay the stated test fee of KES 1,050.
- Download and print your test booking confirmation and payment receipt.
Step 5: Sit the Theory and Practical Test
Arrive at the testing centre on your scheduled date and time. Carry the following documents:
- Original National ID or passport
- Current driving licence
- Test booking confirmation
- Any other documents required by NTSA
- Complete both the theory test, which assesses your knowledge of driving rules, and the practical test, which assesses your driving skills for the new class.
- Confirm with your driving school in advance whether it will provide the vehicle for the practical test.
- If you do not pass, follow NTSA’s instructions for booking a retest.
Step 6: Complete the Class Endorsement and Apply for an Updated Smart Driving Licence
After passing the test:
- Log in to the NTSA Service Portal again through eCitizen.
- Apply for Endorsement of Additional Classes on Driving Licence and pay the stated fee of KES 550.
- Apply for an updated Smart Driving Licence and pay the stated fee of KES 3,050.
- Book an appointment for biometric verification and visit the designated NTSA office or Huduma Centre with your original ID so that your biometrics can be verified.
Step 7: Collect and Verify Your Updated Licence
- Wait for an SMS notification confirming that your Smart Driving Licence is ready for collection.
- Visit the collection centre indicated in the notification. Carry your National ID.
- Check the updated licence carefully to confirm that:
- The new vehicle class has been added correctly.
- All your previous vehicle classes are still listed.
- If any information is missing or incorrect, report the issue to NTSA promptly for correction.
Read Also: How to Access, Download, and Verify NTSA eLogbook on eCitizen (2026 Guide)
Official NTSA Driving Licence Upgrade Fees (2026 Breakdown)
As you are upgrading your driving licence or adding a new class in Kenya, you are required to pay fees in various steps of your application. Below is a breakdown of the applicable NTSA fees for adding a new class to your existing driving licence.
| Service | Fees ksh |
| Provisional driving licence | 650 |
| Driving test booking | 1,050 |
| Endorsement for additional class | 550 |
| Smart driving licence (the updated one) | 3,050 |
NTSA Driving Licence Upgrade Processing Time
The processing time for endorsing an additional driving licence class may depend on the application stage and NTSA’s current processing procedures. After completing and passing the required driving test, you should monitor your application through the NTSA Service Portal for updates on the processing and collection of your updated licence.
Since processing timelines can change, applicants should rely on the status and instructions displayed on the official NTSA portal rather than an older collection period stated in third-party guides.
Frequently Asked Questions on NTSA Driving Licence Class Upgrades
Can I Upgrade My Driving Licence Class Online in Kenya?
Yes. You can start the process online through the NTSA Service Portal using your eCitizen account. However, you still need to attend an NTSA testing centre for the required driving test and may need to visit a designated centre for biometrics or collection.
How Do I Add Another Class to my Driving Licence in Kenya?
You need to meet the age and experience requirements, complete training at an NTSA-registered driving school, and pass the required theory and practical tests. You can then apply for endorsement of the additional class through the NTSA portal.
Do I Need to Take a Driving Test When Upgrading my Licence?
Yes. You are required to take the applicable theory and practical tests for the new driving class. You should also complete the required training before taking the test.
How Long Does a Driving Licence Class Upgrade Take?
The full process can take several weeks because it includes training, booking a test, taking the test, and NTSA processing. The actual time may vary depending on test availability and how quickly your application is processed.
Can I Upgrade From One Class Directly to Another?
For classes that follow a specific progression, you must follow the required sequence and meet the experience requirements. For example, some higher commercial classes require you to first obtain and gain experience in the preceding class.
Can I Upgrade my Driving Licence Without Going to NTSA Offices?
No. Although you can complete the application, payment and test booking online, you must attend the designated testing centre for the required assessment. You may also need to visit a service centre for biometrics or to collect your new Smart DL.
What Happens if My Application is Rejected?
Check the reason given for the rejection and correct the issue if possible. If you are unsure how to proceed, contact NTSA for guidance before submitting another application. Phone call: 0709 932 300, WhatsApp only: 0797 556 354.
Read Also: How to Apply for a PSV Badge in Kenya: 2026 Step-by-Step NTSA Guide
Conclusion
Upgrading your driving licence class in Kenya allows you to legally operate additional types of vehicles that are not covered by your current licence. The process involves confirming that you meet the requirements for the new class, completing the required training and tests, and applying through the NTSA services on eCitizen. By following the steps explained above, paying the applicable fees, and checking your application status, you can complete the upgrade process and obtain authorisation to drive vehicles in the new category.
