The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) regulates the licensing, operation, and management of driving schools, instructors, and the issuance of driving licences under the Traffic (Driving Schools, Driving Instructors and Driving Licences) Rules, 2018.
Therefore, if you are considering opening a driving school in Kenya, here is a step-by-step guide to understanding the requirements, application process, and compliance standards set by NTSA.
Driving schools in Kenya operate under the Traffic Act 2020 and the Traffic (Driving Schools, Driving Instructors and Driving Licences) Rules, 2018.
These laws grant the authority to approve or reject applications for new driving schools and licensed instructors.
The authority also has the mandate to regulate driving curricula and examinations, monitor compliance, and enforce penalties for violations.
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Application for a Driving School Licence, According to NTSA
The Step-by-Step Process
- Register your business with the Registrar of Companies.
- Secure premises with adequate classrooms, offices, and training yards.
- Acquire training vehicles meeting NTSA standards.
- Hire at least two NTSA-licensed instructors and appoint a qualified school manager.
- Prepare the required documents (registration certificate, lease/title deed, instructors’ licences, list of facilities).
- Submit an application to NTSA in the prescribed form.
- Undergo an NTSA inspection of the premises.
- Pay the required licence fees once approved.
- Obtain your school licence (valid for 2 years).
- Submit annual reports and comply with all NTSA regulations to avoid suspension.
No person can set up or maintain a driving school without a valid NTSA school licence.
The application must be made in the prescribed form and accompanied by the required documents.
Documents required include:
- Copy of the certificate of registration of the business.
- Copy of title deed, lease, or rental agreement for the proposed school premises.
- List of licensed driving instructors with copies of their valid instructor licences.
- List of training equipment and facilities available (vehicles, classrooms, simulators).
Validity- A school licence is valid for two years from the date of issue. However, renewal is subject to compliance with NTSA regulations.
Inspection – NTSA inspectors visit the proposed premises to ensure they are suitable and adequately equipped before approval.
Driving School Requirements
A licensed driving school must have:
- A school manager responsible for teaching materials, conducting internal exams, and maintaining records.
- At least two licensed instructors on staff.
- Annual reporting: Driving schools must submit an annual report by January 31st each year, either electronically or in hard copy.
- Accident reporting: Any fatal accident involving training vehicles must be immediately reported to NTSA.
Licensing Driving Instructors
Driving instructors must obtain a valid instructor’s licence from NTSA.
Minimum qualifications for a driving instructor include;
- KCSE minimum grade of D-.
- Valid driving licence with at least four years’ driving experience.
- Certificate of good conduct from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
- Successful completion of an NTSA-approved instructor training course.
- Medically fit to drive and teach.
Instructor licences are valid for two years.
Instructors must attend NTSA-approved refresher and continuous development courses and they must carry their licence at all times while training students.
NTSA has powers to suspend, revoke, or refuse renewal of an instructor’s licence if rules are breached.
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Vehicle Requirements for Driving Schools
Driving school vehicles must meet NTSA’s safety and training standards.
Each vehicle must have:
- Dual control facility (brake and clutch for manual; dual brake for automatic).
- Two reflecting mirrors are visible to both the instructor and the learner.
- Working turn indicators and hazard lights.
- Safety belts and headrests for both front and rear seats.
- A fire extinguisher (minimum 1kg) and a first aid kit.
- Clearly marked words: “CAUTION – DRIVER UNDER INSTRUCTION” at the front and back.
- The school name and address are displayed on the vehicle.
Curriculum and Examinations
NTSA develops the official curriculum for driver and instructor training. Driving schools must follow this curriculum.
Internal exams – Schools conduct internal assessments before recommending learners for official NTSA tests.
NTSA examinations include a Practical test, a minimum of 5 kilometers of driving, and a theory test which covers the Highway Code, traffic signs, and road safety knowledge.
Examiners must maintain records of all applicants, test results, and certificates issued.
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