NTSA PSV Driver Requirements in Kenya 2026: Documents, Licence and Application Process
If you want to become a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) driver in Kenya, you must meet the applicable driving licence and National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) requirements before carrying passengers for hire or reward. These requirements apply to drivers working with matatus, buses, taxis and other regulated passenger transport services, depending on the vehicle category.
In October 2026, NTSA reminded drivers and transport operators that a valid driving licence and a PSV badge are compulsory requirements for every journey. Here is what prospective PSV drivers need to know before applying.
1. Valid Driving Licence for the Correct Vehicle Class
The first requirement is a valid Kenyan driving licence endorsed for the category of vehicle you intend to drive. The licence must match the vehicle you will operate.
For example, the licence category needed to drive a passenger car may differ from the category required for a matatu, minibus or large passenger bus. Applicants should confirm the correct class with NTSA before applying or accepting a driving job.
NTSA licensing information also sets specific conditions for licences endorsed for matatus and motor omnibuses, including age and prior driving experience requirements. Applicants should verify how these conditions apply to their intended vehicle category.
2. NTSA PSV Driver Badge
A PSV badge is an important authorisation for a driver working in public passenger transport. Having an ordinary driving licence alone does not automatically authorise you to operate a PSV.
To apply, sign in to the official NTSA service portal through eCitizen and check the current PSV badge application requirements. Commonly requested documents include:
- A valid driving licence for the appropriate vehicle class.
- A national identity card or other accepted identification.
- A Certificate of Good Conduct or police clearance documentation, as required.
- Proof of payment for the application.
- A recent passport-size photograph and any additional information requested by NTSA.
Check the current application checklist on the official portal before paying, because document requirements, fees and processing times may change.
3. Minimum Age and Driving Experience
Age and previous driving experience requirements depend on the applicable licence category and transport regulations. Kenya’s driving licence guidance specifies that a person applying for a licence endorsed for matatus and motor omnibuses must be over 24 years old and must have held a licence endorsed for motor cars or commercial vehicles for at least four years.
Applicants should confirm their eligibility with NTSA, particularly if they intend to drive a bus, matatu or another commercial passenger vehicle.
4. Certificate of Good Conduct
PSV badge applicants may be required to provide a Certificate of Good Conduct issued through the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). This document is used for background vetting.
Apply through the official government eCitizen services and follow the instructions provided for fingerprinting, payment and collection. Confirm that your certificate meets the requirements for the PSV badge application before submitting your documents.
5. Medical Fitness and Eye Tests
Drivers must be capable of operating their vehicles safely. Depending on the applicable licensing requirements, a medical certificate or fitness assessment may be requested.
In January 2026, NTSA stated that the planned mandatory physical fitness testing framework for PSV and commercial drivers had not yet been rolled out. The Authority said the framework would be communicated through an official public notice once finalised.
Because implementation can change, check the latest NTSA announcements before assuming that a new nationwide medical testing requirement is already in force. Employers may also arrange voluntary health checks for their drivers.
6. PSV Driver Training
Professional driver training can help applicants and working drivers improve road safety, passenger care and compliance with transport regulations. NTSA has conducted capacity-building programmes covering defensive driving, hazard awareness, passenger handling, vehicle checks, emergency response and legal compliance.
Confirm whether a specific training course or certificate is required for your licence category, employer or application. Do not assume that attendance at a general road-safety workshop automatically qualifies you for a PSV badge.
7. Requirements for the Vehicle and Transport Operator
The driver’s documents are only part of PSV compliance. The vehicle and the company or operator must also meet the requirements that apply to the particular passenger transport service.
Depending on the service, the operator may need to ensure that the vehicle has:
- Valid vehicle inspection certification where required.
- Appropriate PSV insurance.
- The applicable vehicle or road service licence.
- Required safety equipment and compliant passenger seating.
- Any required speed limiter, inspection or operational documentation.
- Registration and operating arrangements that comply with the applicable NTSA rules.
Drivers should check with their employer, SACCO or licensed operator to confirm that all vehicle documents are valid before beginning a journey.
8. How to Apply for an NTSA PSV Badge in Kenya
- Confirm your eligibility: Check your age, driving experience and licence category against the applicable rules.
- Prepare your documents: Gather your valid driving licence, identification and other documents requested by NTSA.
- Obtain police clearance if required: Follow the official DCI application process for a Certificate of Good Conduct.
- Access NTSA services: Visit the official NTSA service portal and sign in using your eCitizen credentials.
- Select the relevant service: Follow the available instructions for a PSV badge application.
- Pay the official fee: Use the payment method and amount displayed on the government portal.
- Submit your application: Upload the requested documents and follow any further instructions.
- Check your application status: Respond to requests for additional information and collect or access your badge according to NTSA instructions.
Official portal: NTSA Service Portal
9. How Much Does an NTSA PSV Badge Cost in Kenya?
The total cost may include the PSV badge application fee and the cost of obtaining supporting documents, such as police clearance, where required. Additional training or employer-related costs may apply in some circumstances.
Fees and service charges can change. Check the current amount on the NTSA and eCitizen portals before making payment. Avoid relying on old fee lists or paying unofficial agents without verifying the service and payment instructions.
10. Can You Drive a Matatu with an Ordinary Driving Licence?
An ordinary driving licence alone is not sufficient if you are operating a vehicle as a PSV driver and the applicable rules require a PSV badge or other authorisation. You must hold the correct licence category and meet the relevant PSV requirements before carrying paying passengers.
11. What Happens If a PSV Driver Does Not Have the Required Documents?
Driving without the required licence, badge or other applicable authorisation can expose a driver and operator to enforcement action under Kenyan traffic and transport laws. Depending on the circumstances, a non-compliant vehicle may also face operational restrictions or other penalties.
Drivers should keep their documentation valid and readily available for lawful inspection. Operators should also check driver licences, badges, vehicle inspection status and insurance before assigning journeys.
Frequently Asked Questions About NTSA PSV Requirements
Do all PSV drivers in Kenya need an NTSA badge?
PSV drivers must meet the badge and licensing requirements applicable to their service. NTSA reminded PSV drivers in October 2026 that a valid driving licence and PSV badge are compulsory for every journey.
Where do I apply for a PSV badge?
Start with the official NTSA Service Portal, accessed using your eCitizen login credentials.
Is a Certificate of Good Conduct required?
Police clearance is commonly listed among PSV badge application documents. Check the current NTSA application checklist to confirm the exact documents required for your application.
Are mandatory medical fitness tests already in force for every PSV driver?
In January 2026, NTSA said the planned mandatory physical fitness testing framework had not yet been rolled out. Check for subsequent official notices before relying on that earlier position.
Can I use one driving licence to drive a matatu and a bus?
Only if your licence is valid and endorsed for the relevant vehicle category or categories. Confirm the required class with NTSA before driving a different type of passenger vehicle.
Conclusion
To become a PSV driver in Kenya in 2026, start by confirming that you qualify for the correct driving licence category and obtain the required NTSA PSV badge. Prepare the requested identification and clearance documents, follow the official application process and ensure the vehicle you will drive meets its applicable licensing, inspection and insurance requirements.
Since transport requirements and fees can change, always confirm the latest instructions directly with NTSA before applying or starting work.