Driving in Kenya With a Foreign Driving Licence
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A foreign driving licence is not automatic permission to drive every type of vehicle in Kenya. Check that your licence, vehicle class and proposed period of use meet Kenyan requirements before driving.
What the official guidance says
NTSA’s driving-licence guidance recognises relevant licences issued by a competent authority in a Commonwealth country and international driving permits. These are subject to the applicable conditions; a country’s Commonwealth membership alone does not settle every case.
An international driving permit should accompany the underlying national licence. Obtain it through an authorised issuer before travel, and carry the valid original licence too.
Before driving
- Check that your licence is current and covers the vehicle you intend to drive.
- Ask NTSA to confirm whether your foreign licence or permit is acceptable for your circumstances and length of stay.
- If you need an international driving permit, obtain it from the authorised body in the country that issued your licence.
- Carry your licence and any required permit and identification.
- Confirm the rental company’s document requirements and insurance conditions before collecting a vehicle.
Residents and licence conversion
Moving to Kenya can raise different requirements from a short visit. Use NTSA’s current instructions for a Kenyan licence or conversion; do not assume a foreign licence can be used indefinitely or that conversion is always available.
Tip: The old 53-country table has been removed. Licence recognition depends on the law and your documents, not your nationality alone. Begin with [NTSA’s official services](https://ntsa.go.ke/) for individual guidance.
