How To Replace A Lost Driving License In Kenya (Fast & Legit Process)

To replace a lost driving license in Kenya, report the loss at a police station and obtain a police abstract. Then apply online via the NTSA TIMS portal, upload your documents, pay Ksh 3,050, and book a biometrics appointment. Your new license will be ready in about 7–14 working days.

🪪 What to Do Immediately After Losing Your License

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged:

Report the loss at the nearest police station.
Get a police abstract to confirm the loss.
Use the abstract as temporary proof while waiting for your replacement.

Traffic officers may accept a police abstract and national ID while your NTSA application is being processed.

💻 How to Apply for a Replacement via NTSA TIMS

To replace a lost driving license, follow these steps carefully through the eCitizen portal:

Log in to TIMS via eCitizen: Visit www.ecitizen.go.ke, go to NTSA services, and access the TIMS dashboard using your ID number and password.
Choose the right service: Select “DL Replacement” or “Duplicate DL” — this is different from the option used to NTSA renew driving license, which is for expired cards.
Upload required documents:
- Scanned copy of your National ID (front and back)
- Police abstract (PDF or clear image)
Pay the replacement fee: Ksh 3,050 via M-Pesa or debit card.
Book a biometrics appointment: Pick the nearest Huduma Centre or NTSA office.
Attend your session: NTSA staff will take your fingerprint, digital signature, and photo.

🧾 You’ll receive an SMS once your smart DL is ready for collection. You can also track the application status in your TIMS account.

Related: Need to apply for a brand new license? Check our full guide to the Smart Driving License application process in Kenya

📋 Required Documents

Whether you’re applying for a duplicate due to loss or going through the ntsa driving license renewal or ecitizen driving licence renewal process, you’ll need the following documents:

Original National ID (both front and back)
Valid police abstract from the nearest police station
Your NTSA TIMS login details
Previous driving license number (if you still have a record of it)

These documents are essential for verifying your identity and ensuring that the new smart driving license issued by NTSA matches your records.

🕒 Processing Time

You can use the eCitizen driving license check or the NTSA driving license check online tools inside your TIMS account to monitor your replacement status in real time.

7–14 working days in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu
Up to 21 days in remote areas

👉 To check status, log in to your TIMS account, go to “DL Application,” and review the progress of your request.

🚘 Can You Drive While Waiting?

Yes. You may drive as long as you:

Have a valid police abstract
Have initiated the NTSA replacement process

Keep both your police abstract and NTSA application receipt on hand when driving.

Here’s what happens if you’re caught driving without a license in Kenya, and how to handle the situation.

⚠️ Common Problems and Fixes

Problem	Solution
TIMS won’t load	Use a different browser or try during off-peak hours
Payment issue	Wait 24–48 hours or contact NTSA support
Missed biometrics	Log in and rebook your appointment

📱 NTSA Contacts for Help

Phone: 0709 932 300
Facebook: @ntsaKenya
Twitter: @ntsa_kenya

✅ Quick Summary

Report at police station
Obtain police abstract
Apply on eCitizen NTSA TIMS
Upload required documents
Pay Ksh 3,050
Book biometric appointment
Wait for SMS confirmation

🙋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I replace a lost driving license in Kenya?

Report the loss at a police station, get a police abstract, then apply online via NTSA TIMS and pay Ksh 3,050.

Can I drive with a police abstract while I wait for the replacement?

Yes, if you carry your ID and proof of application.

How long will it take to get my new license?

About 7–14 working days in cities; up to 21 days elsewhere.

🧭 Final Thoughts

Losing your driving permit can be stressful, but the process to replace a lost driving license is straightforward if you follow the right steps. By reporting the loss, obtaining a police abstract, and applying via the NTSA TIMS portal, you can quickly get back on the road legally. Remember to carry your abstract and ID while waiting for the new license, and always track your application status online.