New Classes of Driving Licence in Kenya: Revving Forward

In Kenya, the driving license system plays a pivotal role in regulating road safety and ensuring that drivers meet the necessary requirements to operate various types of vehicles.

Over the years, the Kenyan government has introduced changes to driving license categories to align with evolving transportation needs, technological advancements, and international best practices.

These new classes aim to streamline vehicle categorization, improve training standards, and enhance road safety across the country.

This article delves into the new classes of driving licenses in Kenya, exploring their structure, implications, and the steps individuals must take to acquire them.

New Classes of Driving Licence in Kenya

The Kenyan driving license system is managed by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), which oversees all aspects of licensing, vehicle registration, and road safety.

The country previously categorized licenses more simply, but recent updates introduced more specific classes to accommodate the diverse range of vehicles on Kenyan roads.

The new classes accommodate motorcycles, commercial vehicles, private cars, heavy trucks, and specialized equipment like forklifts and cranes.

This shift ensures that drivers are better trained for the specific vehicles they operate, reducing accidents caused by insufficient expertise.

The New Classes of Driving Licenses

The NTSA has outlined several new driving license classes, each tailored to a specific category of vehicle.

Below is a detailed explanation of the primary classes:

1. Motorcycles (Class A)

• This category is for two- and three-wheeled motorcycles, including scooters and mopeds.
• Subcategories within Class A cater to different engine capacities:
  • A1: Motorcycles with engines up to 50cc (suitable for beginners and young riders).
  • A2: Motorcycles with engines ranging from 51cc to 400cc.
  • A3: Motorcycles above 400cc, typically for more experienced riders.
• Applicants must undergo specialized training to handle motorcycles safely, including lessons on road sharing with larger vehicles.

2. Light Vehicles (Class B)

• This class is for private cars and small passenger vehicles with a maximum weight of 3,500kg.
• It includes vehicles commonly used for personal transportation and excludes commercial use.
• Drivers must demonstrate proficiency in city driving, highway driving, and parking skills to obtain this license.

3. Commercial Vehicles (Class C)

• Designed for individuals operating commercial vehicles, such as taxis, vans, and small delivery trucks.
• Drivers in this category must complete additional training on customer service, vehicle maintenance, and handling goods or passengers responsibly.

4. Heavy Commercial Vehicles (Class D)

• This class caters to drivers of large trucks and lorries used for transporting goods.
• Subcategories in Class D distinguish between light trucks, medium trucks, and heavy trucks:
  • D1: Light trucks (3,500kg to 7,500kg).
  • D2: Medium trucks (7,501kg to 12,000kg).
  • D3: Heavy trucks (above 12,000kg).
• Drivers are required to have prior experience with smaller vehicles before progressing to heavier ones.

5. Public Service Vehicles (Class E)

• For drivers of public service vehicles, such as matatus (shared minibuses), buses, and coaches.
• This license requires advanced training in passenger safety, vehicle handling, and knowledge of traffic regulations specific to public transport.
• Drivers must also pass background checks and medical examinations.

6. Specialized Vehicles (Class F, G, H)

• These classes cover specialized vehicles that require unique skills and training:
  • Class F: Tractors and agricultural vehicles.
  • Class G: Construction vehicles like bulldozers and excavators.
  • Class H: Industrial vehicles such as forklifts and cranes.
• Operators must undergo rigorous training to ensure safety in both operational and non-operational zones.

7. Motorized Three-Wheelers (Class J)

• This new class caters to three-wheeled vehicles used for passenger or goods transportation, commonly known as tuk-tuks.
• Training focuses on the unique handling characteristics of these vehicles, including stability and maneuverability.

Requirements for Acquiring the New Licenses

To obtain any of the new driving licenses, applicants must fulfill the following requirements:

Applicants must meet the minimum age for each specific class.

For example, individuals must be at least 16 years old for Class A1, while Classes D and E require drivers to be 24 years or older.

Training:
Applicants enroll in a certified driving school that provides training specific to the class of vehicle.

The NTSA accredits various institutions across Kenya to offer this training.

Theory and Practical Tests:
After training, individuals take a theory exam covering road rules, signage, and safety protocols.

Practical tests evaluate their ability to operate the vehicle confidently and safely.

Medical Examination:
Applicants for certain classes, such as Class E, must complete a medical examination to confirm they are fit to drive public service vehicles.

Fees and Documentation:
Applicants pay the required fees and submit essential documents, including a national ID, certificate of good conduct, and passport-sized photos.

Impact of the New Classes on Road Safety