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Guides · Kenya

National ID card renewal in Kenya

Written from published rules on 26 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with National Registration Bureau (NRB), Kenya.

Renewing a Kenyan National ID card (or applying for a replacement) generally involves visiting a Huduma Centre or specific registration office, providing necessary identification documents, and completing an application form. The process is primarily for replacing lost, defaced, or damaged cards, or for new applicants, as the original ID card typically does not expire.

Your timing

It is advisable for individuals to begin the replacement process as soon as a card is lost, damaged, or defaced, as processing times can vary. While specific lead times for appointments or processing are not always fixed, initiating the application promptly helps avoid potential delays in obtaining a new card.

Start 14 days ahead

This is an approximate processing time for replacement cards, but actual times may vary depending on the specific Huduma Centre or registration office and current demand.

The process

  1. 1Determine if a replacement is needed (e.g., due to loss, damage, defacement, or applying for a second-generation ID for the first time).
  2. 2Visit the nearest Huduma Centre or National Registration Bureau (NRB) office.
  3. 3Obtain and complete the relevant application form (e.g., 'REG. 136A' for a new or replacement ID).
  4. 4Submit the completed form along with all required supporting documents.
  5. 5Pay the prescribed fee for the replacement service.
  6. 6Receive a waiting card or acknowledgment, which will indicate when the new ID card can be collected.

What to bring

  • Original birth certificate (for first-time applicants or in some replacement cases)
  • Parent's National ID card or death certificate (if applicable)
  • Passport-sized photographs (it is often recommended to have these taken at the registration point to meet specific standards, but confirm requirements)
  • Police Abstract Report (for lost ID cards)
  • Old ID card (if replacing a defaced or damaged card)
  • Affidavit (in some complex cases, such as discrepancies or specific replacement needs)
  • Proof of payment for the replacement fee (if paid beforehand)

Who handles it

National Registration Bureau (NRB), Kenya

https://www.hudumakenya.go.ke/services/national-id

As of information available, the fee for replacing a lost or damaged National ID card is typically KES 100. For new applications (second generation ID), there is generally no charge. These fees are subject to change and should be confirmed with the National Registration Bureau or Huduma Centre.

What commonly goes wrong

  • The original Kenyan National ID card (second generation) does not have an expiry date, so 'renewal' is generally not required unless the card is lost, damaged, or defaced.
  • Specific requirements for documents can vary slightly, especially for first-time applicants versus replacements; always confirm exact needs with the registering authority.
  • Ensure all details on the application form are accurate to avoid delays.
  • Collection procedures and timelines can differ between offices; retain your waiting card or receipt carefully.

Sources

Other documents in Kenya

National ID card renewal in other countries

Often renewed together

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