All motorists will be required to adopt smart driving licences within three years, according to the new regulations by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).
In the National Road Safety Action Plan 2024-2028, the authority notes that the move is part of the plan to phase out all old driving licences.
With every motorist acquiring a smart driving licence, it will be possible for NTSA to introduce an instant fines regime and point system to enforce traffic laws.
"This is critical to the integrity of road safety in the future, and will be accompanied by identity checks to eliminate identity fraud through the licensing system," the regulations read in part.
"With every Kenyan driver smart driver licence, it will be possible to administer and implement an instant fine regime and a demerit point system."
A smart driving licence comprises a chip that will store the driver's information such as name, date of birth, and gender among others.
It will also include a demerit point system whereby motorists will be deducted points up to 100 for every traffic offence to encourage responsible driving. The licence will also allow instant fines for motorists at the point of committing the offence.
The new digital DL will allow traffic officers to verify the validity of the licence on the spot through the NTSA mobile application.
In the plan, new processes will also be introduced to streamline and regulate driving schools and instructors. This will be established to identify poor performers and provide them with opportunities to improve and remove non-compliance.
"Standards will also be enforced by strengthening the online processes administered by NTSA to run the necessary theory tests."
Those seeking to adopt the smart driving licence will be required to apply through the eCitizen platform.
In addition, the Authority is currently undertaking public participation in the Draft NTSA (Operation of Commercial Service Vehicle) Regulations, 2024, and the Draft Traffic (School Transport) Rules, 2024, as part of its mandate to regulate the transport sector.
The Draft NTSA (Operation of Commercial Service Vehicle) Regulations, 2024, aim to regulate all commercial service vehicles with an unladen weight exceeding 348 kilograms.
Similarly, the Draft Traffic (School Transport) Rules, 2024, outline regulations for schools to ensure compliance with traffic laws regarding their vehicles.
Kenyans are encouraged to submit their comments on both drafts by May 10, 2024.
