Kenya’s smart driving licence groups vehicles into classes A (motorcycles), B (light vehicles), C (trucks), D (buses and vans) and E (professional), plus special categories.
Licence classes and minimum ages
Confirm on ntsa.go.ke before you book a test.
| Class | Vehicle | Minimum age / experience |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | Moped up to 50cc, no passenger | 16 |
| A2 | Light motorcycle | 18 |
| A3 | Motorcycle taxi, courier, three-wheeler | 21 + 1 year on A2 |
| B1/B2 | Light vehicle (manual or automatic / automatic only) | 18 |
| B3 | Professional light vehicle | 21 |
| C1 | Light truck 3,500–7,500 kg | 22 |
| C | Medium truck over 7,500 kg | 24 + 2 years on C1 |
| CE | Heavy truck with trailer / articulated | 28 + 4 years on C |
| CD | Heavy goods vehicle, hazardous materials | 30 + 2 years on CE |
| D1 | Van, up to 14 passengers | 22 |
| D2 | Minibus, 14–32 passengers | 25 + 3 years on D1 |
| D3 | Large bus, 33+ passengers | 30 + 3 years on D2 |
Class E
Class E is a professional endorsement over C and D categories, with a reported minimum age of 21 and retesting required.
Upgrading
Higher classes require experience on the lower class plus training and retesting at an NTSA-accredited school. Apply through NTSA’s eCitizen-linked portal.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum age to drive a car in Kenya?
18 years for classes B1/B2, as reported.
Which licence do I need for a matatu?
D1 for vans up to 14 passengers; D2 for 14–32 passengers, with experience requirements.
Can I ride a boda boda with A2?
Commercial motorcycle taxis fall under A3, which reportedly needs age 21 and one year on A2.
Related: NTSA help hub · Smart DL renewal
Sources: Digitali, Tuko. Last updated October 2026.
