Every Kenyan citizen aged 18 and above is expected to hold a National Identity Card. First registration is done through the National Registration Bureau, usually at the Huduma Centre or registration office that serves your home area. The process is free for a first ID.
Who should apply
- Kenyan citizens who have turned 18 and have never been issued an ID
- People who need the ID to open a bank account, get a KRA PIN, register a SIM, vote, or take up formal work
If you already had an ID and lost it, use the replacement process instead of first registration. See how to replace a lost National ID.
Documents commonly required
- Original birth certificate and a copy
- Parents’ National IDs and copies (or death certificates where applicable)
- For applicants born outside Kenya, additional citizenship documents as advised by the registration officer
- One passport-size photo if the centre still requests physical photos
Officers may ask for a letter from the local chief or assistant chief in some locations. Ask the Huduma Centre that serves you what they want before you travel.
How to apply (first ID)
- Visit the Huduma Centre or National Registration Bureau office linked to your home district or county of registration.
- Take a queue number for National ID registration.
- Present your birth certificate and supporting documents for verification.
- Have your biometrics and photo captured.
- Confirm the printed details (names, date of birth, home particulars) before you leave the desk. Errors fixed later take longer.
- Keep the acknowledgement slip. You will need it when collecting the card.
- Return on the date you are given, or track collection using the channels your centre explains (SMS or Huduma follow-up).
After you get the ID
- Register a KRA PIN if you do not have one.
- Create an eCitizen account using the ID number as your username.
- Update your bank, mobile money and employer records with the new ID number.
Employers and recruiters almost always ask for an ID copy. When you are ready to apply, check listings on jobinkenya.co.ke.
Requirements can differ slightly by centre. If an officer asks for an extra document, follow the instruction for that office.
