Thinking of joining a driving school in Kenya? You’re not alone — thousands of Kenyans sign up every year to get behind the wheel, whether it’s for personal freedom, job opportunities or just to stop relying on matatus. But before you jump in, let’s break things down in a simple, no-jargon way.

We’ll talk about how long driving school takes, how much it costs, what you’ll learn and how you can finally get that shiny license in your pocket. Let’s go!

How Long Does Driving School Take in Kenya?

So, how long will you be in class before you can hit the road legally?

In most cases, driving school takes 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the school and your availability. Some people finish faster if they attend full-time, others take longer if they’re doing it part-time.

Here’s a quick guide:

• Light vehicles (Class B) – 3 to 5 weeks
• Heavy trucks or buses (Class C, CE, D) – 4 to 8 weeks
• Crash program – 1 to 2 weeks (super intensive, not always ideal for beginners)

Note: Unlike the old days where you had to start with small cars (Class B) and then upgrade to trucks or buses, you can now train directly for the class you want. So if you want to drive a matatu, you don’t have to go through a saloon car course first — just apply directly for the class you need.

How Much Does Driving School Cost in Kenya?

This is probably the next big question: How much will it cost me?

On average, driving school in Kenya will cost you between KSh 12,000 and KSh 25,000 — again, depending on the type of vehicle you want to learn and the school you choose.

Sample Costs (As of 2025):

School Name	Vehicle Class	Cost Estimate
AA Kenya	Class B (small cars)	KSh 21,000 – 24,000
Rocky Driving School	Class B	KSh 15,000 – 20,000
Top Gear Driving School	Class CE (trucks/trailers)	KSh 25,000 – 40,000
Petanns Driving School	Class D (matatu)	KSh 18,000 – 30,000

Just remember: cheapest isn’t always best. A school might offer you training for KSh 10,000, but you could end up learning nothing useful or paying extra for hidden charges.

What Will You Learn in Driving School?

Driving school is more than just “how to drive.” You’ll learn:

1. Theory Lessons

You’ll sit in class and learn:

• Road signs and rules
• Basic car maintenance
• NTSA regulations
• Defensive driving tips

2. Practical Driving

This is the fun (and sometimes scary) part where you actually drive:

• Starting and stopping
• Turning, reversing, and parking
• Highway driving
• Dealing with Kenyan potholes and crazy roundabouts

3. (Optional) Simulator Lessons

Some top schools like AA Kenya offer simulator sessions to help you practice real-life scenarios like rain, fog or emergency stops — all from a computer before the real deal.

How Do You Get Your Driving License?

Here’s the full process step by step:

Step 1: Register for a Driving Course

Choose your preferred school and start training.

Step 2: Apply for a Provisional Driving License (PDL)

This is done online via the NTSA TIMS portal. It costs about KSh 750 and is valid for 3 months.

Step 3: Complete Your Training

Make sure you attend all sessions and practice enough!

Step 4: Book the NTSA Test

The school will help you schedule a driving test with NTSA. It includes:

• Theory test (on a tablet or paper)
• Practical road test

Step 5: If You Pass, Apply for Your Smart Driving License

This costs around KSh 3,050, and you’ll get a digital license with a chip — just like a bank card. It usually takes 2 to 4 weeks to be processed.

Real Talk: What People Are Saying

“I joined a driving school in Githurai and finished in 4 weeks. But I had to wait another month for the test because NTSA slots were full,” says Wycliffe, a boda boda rider turned matatu driver.

“My advice? Choose a school with their own test yard — it saves you so much stress,” shares Ann, a college student who recently got her Class B license.

FAQs About Driving School in Kenya

Can I choose any class, or do I have to start with Class B?

Nope, you can go straight to the class you want — even heavy commercial, matatu, or truck driving — as long as you meet the minimum age and requirements.

How long does it take to get a driving license?

From start to finish (training + test + processing), it could take around 6 to 10 weeks.

What’s the best driving school in Kenya?

It depends on your location, budget, and needs. AA Kenya is widely respected, but schools like Petanns, Heltz, Rocky, and Top Gear also have solid reputations in different towns.

Final Tips Before You Enroll

Ask questions: Not all schools are the same. Some are amazing, others are just looking for your money.

• Practice outside class: Use your PDL to practice with a licensed driver.
• Don’t rush the process: Driving safely is more important than finishing quickly.
• Avoid bribes or shortcuts: It could cost you more in the long run — or get your license revoked!

Ever found yourself stuck on a speed bump in Rongai or heard that painful scrape under your car while leaving a parking lot in Nairobi? Yep — that’s the brutal reality of low ground clearance and it’s more common than you’d think in Kenya.

Whether you’re buying your first car, upgrading from a Vitz or just wondering why your bumper is always hanging half off, this guide is for you. Let’s talk about what ground clearance means, why it matters here in Kenya and what you can do about it.

So, What Is Ground Clearance in Cars?

In simple terms ground clearance (also called ride height) is the space between the lowest part of your car and the ground. Think of it as the “legroom” your car has to walk over obstacles like potholes, speed bumps, rocks or uneven roads.

Low clearance = higher risk of scraping, denting or breaking your undercarriage.
High clearance = better off-road ability but sometimes bumpier rides and less stability.

Why It’s a Big Deal in Kenya

Let’s be real — Kenyan roads aren’t exactly smooth all the time. In fact, in places like Kitengela, Syokimau and parts of Kisii, the road sometimes isn’t even there.

Here’s what that means if your car sits too low:

• You’ll hit speed bumps all the time, especially those unmarked ones outside estates.
• Expect damage to your exhaust system, oil sump or front bumper.
• Scraping over every pothole becomes your daily driving soundtrack.

True story: A friend of mine imported a sleek Honda Insight — great on paper, fuel efficient, stylish — but it had only 135mm ground clearance. Two weeks in Nairobi traffic and the bumper was hanging like a loose tooth. He had to sell it within three months and switch to a higher car!

What Is a Good Ground Clearance for Kenya?

Let’s break it down:

Car Type	Ideal Ground Clearance	Road Type
Small Cars	150–170 mm	City roads (with some care)
Crossovers	170–200 mm	Urban + occasional rough roads
SUVs/4x4s	200–230+ mm	Rural roads, off-road, bad terrain

If you’re mostly in town (say, Nairobi or Mombasa), something above 160mm might be okay. But if you travel upcountry often — aim for 180mm or higher to be safe.

What’s the Ground Clearance of Popular Cars in Kenya?

Let’s get specific with some of Kenya’s favorite rides:

• Toyota RAV4 – 203mm. Good balance of clearance and smooth ride. Popular in both town and upcountry.
• Honda CR-V – 198mm. Comfortable, reliable and can handle most bumps.
• Subaru Outback – 213mm! This car eats potholes for breakfast.
• Toyota Fielder – 160mm. Can survive in town but not ideal for rocky or muddy roads.
• Mazda Demio or Honda Fit – 135-150mm. Great for fuel economy but be prepared to scrape often unless you stick to smooth tarmac.

How to Increase Ground Clearance (And What to Watch Out For)

If you already own a low car, you might be thinking: “Can I just lift it a bit?” The answer is yes — but there are a few things you MUST know first.

1. Install Suspension Spacers

These are rubber or metal inserts that lift the body. Popular in Kenya and fairly affordable.

Cost: Around KSh 10,000 – KSh 30,000.

2. Switch to Taller Tyres

Increasing the tyre profile can give you an extra inch or two, but be careful — too big and it’ll throw off your speedometer and fuel consumption.

3. Be Cautious: Insurance Might Not Cover You!

IMPORTANT: Some car insurance companies in Kenya do not cover damage caused by unauthorized suspension modifications. So before lifting your car, check with your insurer to confirm what’s allowed.

You don’t want a claim rejected just because you added 2 inches to look cool.

Which Car Has the Highest Ground Clearance?

For those who want a car that can conquer rural roads and flooded streets without stress, here are some high-clearance heroes:

Car Model	Ground Clearance
Isuzu D-Max	Up to 235mm
Toyota Hilux	Up to 279mm
Subaru Outback	213mm
Toyota Land Cruiser	220–230mm
Suzuki Jimny	210mm

These cars aren’t just high — they’re tough. Perfect for off-roading, upcountry drives, or even delivering goods in rough terrain.

Real-Life Warning Signs of Low Clearance

Still wondering if ground clearance really matters?

Here are 5 signs your car might be too low for Kenyan roads:

1. You cringe every time you see a speed bump.
2. You’ve damaged your oil pan more than once.
3. Your front bumper is permanently “tukuch” or held up by zip ties.
4. You avoid certain roads, even if they’re shorter.
5. You dread rainy season because your car becomes a submarine in puddles.

If you’ve nodded at two or more of these, it might be time to consider a higher ride.

Final Thoughts: Is Ground Clearance a Big Deal?

Absolutely. In a country with as many unpredictable roads as Kenya, ground clearance isn’t just a number — it’s your car’s ability to survive the daily hustle.

So, next time you’re car shopping, don’t just focus on the looks or price. Ask yourself:

• Will this car survive the road to shags?
• How many bumps do I cross daily?
• Will it handle muddy or flooded roads?* Check with your insurer if clearance modifications are allowed?

Don’t buy a car that matches your fuel budget, buy one that matches your lifestyle.

Quick FAQs for Kenyan Drivers

Question	Answer
What is ground clearance in cars?	It’s the space between your car’s lowest point and the ground.
How can I increase it?	Install spacers, lift kits, or bigger tires — but check with your insurance first.
What is the ground clearance of Honda CR-V?	About 198mm
What is the ground clearance of a RAV4?	Around 203mm
What is the ground clearance of Subaru Outback?	213mm – among the highest for wagons
What is considered good clearance in Kenya?	180mm+ is ideal for mixed terrain
Which cars have the highest ground clearance?	Hilux, Land Cruiser, Subaru Outback, Isuzu D-Max

Want to avoid the drama at the bumps and drive stress free? Then it’s time to start thinking “clearance first.” Your car and your wallet will thank you later.

Ever wondered what those number plates on Kenyan roads really mean? Whether it’s the common black-on-white or those weird red, green or blue ones — each colour and format tells a story.

In this guide, we break down the different types of number plates in Kenya, what they mean, who uses them and why you should know the difference.

Why Number Plates Matter

In Kenya, vehicle number plates are not just random codes. They’re designed to show:

• Vehicle ownership
• Type of use (private, commercial, government, diplomatic, etc.)
• Registration history
• Compliance with laws and security protocols

Knowing how to recognize them can help you avoid fraud, spot government vehicles or just satisfy your curiosity in traffic.

Types of Number Plates in Kenya (With Meanings)

Here are the most common number plate types on Kenyan roads:

1. Standard Private and Commercial Vehicles – Black on White/Yellow

• Format: Kxx 123X (e.g., KDC 123A)
• Colour:
  • White background (front)
  • Yellow background (rear)
  • Black letters and numbers
• Use: Private and commercial vehicles

This is the most common type of plate you’ll see on the road — regular vehicles owned by individuals or businesses.

2. Government Vehicles – White/Yellow Plates

• Format: GK 123A or GKA 123A
• Colour: White/Yellow background with black letters
• Use: Government ministries, parastatals and official use vehicles

These plates mean a vehicle is owned by the Government of Kenya (GK). You’ll often see them during official duties or around government offices.

3. Diplomatic Vehicles – Red Plates

• Format: CD/CM/UN followed by numbers
• Colour: Red background with white letters
• Use: Embassies, high commissions, international organizations and UN vehicles

CD means Corps Diplomatique, CM is Consular Missions, and UN is for United Nations vehicles. These vehicles enjoy certain diplomatic privileges on the road.

4. County Government Vehicles – Green Plates

• Format: CG 123A
• Colour: Green background with white characters
• Use: County government departmentsSince devolution, counties own and register their vehicles under CG-coded number plates. For example, a plate like MKS CG 001A would be for Machakos County Government.

5. Parliament Vehicles – Blue with Coat of Arms

• Format: National Assembly or Senate with a number
• Colour: Blue plate with the Kenyan coat of arms
• Use: Official use by Members of Parliament (MPs) and Senators

These are specially issued and not part of the standard registration system. They’re used by elected leaders in their official capacity.

6. Motorcycles – Smaller Plates

• Format: Kxx 123X (like cars)
• Colour:
  • White (front)
  • Yellow (rear)
  • Smaller in size
• Use: Motorbikes and tuk-tuks (three-wheelers)

Boda bodas fall under this category, but their plates are usually compact to fit motorcycle frames.

7. Dealer Plates – White on Green (Temporary Use)

• Format: Usually short codes like “Kxx D” or Dealer Name
• Color: Green background, white letters
• Use: Car dealers during test drives or while vehicles await registration

You might see these on brand-new imports still at the yard or on test drives.

8. Civilian Plates With Personalized Touch (Customized)

• Format: Chosen by vehicle owner (e.g., BOSS 001)
• Color: Same as regular (white/yellow)
• Use: Privately customized for a fee

Yes, in Kenya you can buy a custom plate — though it costs quite a bit and requires KRA approval.

What About the New Digital Number Plates?

In 2022, Kenya rolled out digital number plates with:

• Anti-counterfeit features
• QR codes
• Security chips
• KRA watermark and hologram

These are slowly replacing the older ones and are meant to enhance vehicle tracking and reduce fraud. New vehicles are now registered with these plates, and existing owners are being encouraged to upgrade.

Important Notes

• Falsifying number plates is a serious offense. Always confirm ownership through NTSA’s TIMS portal before purchasing a car.
• Plate color = ownership/use. Don’t assume all cars are privately owned just because they look regular.
• Insurance and taxes are also tied to your number plate — keep it legit.

Fuel prices in Kenya are rising and if you’ve ever suspected your car is using more fuel than it should, you’re not alone. Whether you drive in Nairobi’s daily traffic or take long weekend trips upcountry, knowing how to calculate your car’s fuel consumption per kilometer (KM) can help you save money, improve efficiency and plan better.

Here’s a quick and easy guide — Kenyan style — on how to calculate fuel consumption and why it matters.

What Is Fuel Consumption Per KM?

Fuel consumption per kilometer is how many litres of fuel your car uses to cover one kilometer. The lower the figure, the more fuel efficient your car is.

In Kenya we measure fuel usage in two ways:

• Litres per 100 kilometers (L/100KM)
• Kilometers per litre (KM/L)

Why Does It Matter in Kenya?

With petrol and diesel above KSh 180 per litre, poor fuel economy means:

• More frequent trips to the petrol station
• Higher monthly spending
• Faster engine wear and higher emissions
• Reduced resale value

Whether you own a Toyota Vitz, Mazda Demio, Probox, or Subaru Forester, tracking your fuel usage is one of the smartest habits you can develop as a car owner.

How to Calculate Fuel Consumption Per KM

Step-by-Step (Manual Method)

Follow these simple steps:

1. Fill Up Your Tank

Fill your tank to full at any station — Shell, Total, Rubis, etc. Keep the receipt if you can.

2. Reset Your Trip Meter

If your car has a trip meter (usually labelled Trip A or Trip B), reset it to zero.
If not, note your odometer reading.

3. Drive Normally

Go about your daily driving: to work, church, errands or even upcountry. The more kilometers you cover, the more accurate the reading.

4. Refuel and Record Data

When you refill again:

• Fill the tank to full.
• Note the litres added (check the fuel pump reading).
• Record the distance traveled using your trip meter or by subtracting your initial odometer reading from the current one.

5. Do the MathNow use one of the formulas below:

Fuel consumption (L/km):
Litres used ÷ Kilometers driven

Fuel efficiency (KM/L):
Kilometers driven ÷ Litres used

Example:

• Litres filled: 30 litres
• Distance driven: 420 KM
• Fuel efficiency = 420 ÷ 30 = 14 KM/L

That means your car covers 14 kilometers per litre, which is typical for small cars in Kenya.

Apps That Can Help

Don’t want to do math every time? Use these apps:

• Fuelio – Logs your fuel usage, mileage and expenses.
• Drivvo – For personal and business vehicles.
• Google Sheets – Create a simple tracker with fuel entries.

All these apps support Kenyan fuel units and will make record keeping easier for you.

What Affects Fuel Consumption in Kenya?

These are the local factors that affect your car’s fuel efficiency:

• Traffic jams: Idling in Nairobi or Mombasa guzzles fuel.
• Driving habits: Speeding, hard braking and acceleration burns more fuel.
• Tyre pressure: Low pressure creates resistance, uses more fuel.
• Vehicle maintenance: Dirty air filters, worn out spark plugs and old oil reduces efficiency.
• Car weight: Heavy loads and unnecessary luggage increases fuel demand.

Tips to Improve Fuel Efficiency

• Drive at a constant speed.
• Turn off the engine when waiting for long.
• Avoid carrying extra weight or unused roof racks.
• Service your car regularly.
• Always use the correct fuel type as recommended by your car manufacturer.

Smart Habits to Save Fuel in Business Cars

• Plan your route to avoid traffic zones
• Use navigation (Google Maps, Waze) to reduce idle time
• Avoid hard acceleration – it consumes more fuel
• Check tyre pressure weekly – one flat tyre can ruin efficiency
• Use genuine parts during service
• Don’t overload – remove unnecessary cargo or weight

Bonus: Daily Fuel Tracker (Printable)

Date	Litres Filled	KM Driven	KM/L	Driver Name	Notes
June 7	28L	350 KM	12.5	John	Nairobi route

Real Testimonial: Ann’s Car Hire Business

“I run a small car hire service in Nakuru. Before I couldn’t explain the rising fuel bills. Turns out two of my drivers were inflating mileage claims. Since we introduced a simple fuel/KM tracker, we’ve cut fuel expenses by over 20%. I even added driver bonuses for highest KM/L!”

Final Thoughts

Learning how to calculate fuel consumption per KM isn’t just for car enthusiasts. It’s a practical skill every Kenyan driver should have — especially with today’s fuel prices.

By monitoring your car’s fuel use, you can:

• Reduce your running costs
• Extend your engine life
• Get the most out of every liter

Fuel is expensive — but managing how you use it doesn’t have to be.

Tags: Fuel Consumption Kenya, KM per Litre, Car Efficiency Kenya, Fuel Saving Tips

The Honda Fit — also known as the Honda Jazz in some countries — is one of the most popular hatchbacks on Kenyan roads. Loved for its fuel efficiency, compact size and affordability, it’s become a top pick for urban motorists. But like any vehicle, it’s not without its challenges.

So, what are the problems with the Honda Fit, especially in Kenya? Let’s dive into the common issues Kenyan drivers have reported and how to deal with them.

Why Is the Honda Fit So Popular in Kenya?

Before we get into the problems, here’s why many Kenyans buy it:

• Excellent fuel economy (perfect for rising fuel prices).
• Compact for city driving and parking.
• Affordable spare parts compared to some European cars.
• High resale value in the local used car market.

But while the Honda Fit excels in many ways, here are the common problems that owners in Kenya experience.

Honda Fit Problems in Kenya

1. Transmission Issues — Especially with CVT Models

The most reported problem with the Honda Fit is the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Many Kenyan drivers complain of:

• Jerking or delayed response when accelerating.
• CVT warning lights showing up unexpectedly.
• Transmission failure after 100,000+ km (especially without proper maintenance).

Tip: CVT gearboxes need special CVT fluid. Using ordinary ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) damages the system. Always service with genuine Honda CVT fluid at recommended intervals.

2. Low Ground Clearance

Kenyan roads are not always smooth and speed bumps or potholes can easily damage a Honda Fit’s undercarriage.

• Scraping noises are common.
• Damage to the exhaust or oil sump if not careful.

Solution: You can install spacers or raise the suspension slightly. However, consult a professional mechanic to avoid affecting ride quality or safety.

3. Electrical Glitches

Owners report problems like:

• Power windows malfunctioning.
• Dashboard warning lights for no reason.
• Central locking inconsistencies.

This is often due to Kenya’s humid climate affecting sensors or poorly maintained imported units.

Tip: Do a full computer scan before buying. It could save you from expensive surprises.

4. Overheating Issues

While not as common as transmission problems, overheating has been reported — mostly due to:

• Clogged radiators.
• Faulty thermostats.
• Using substandard coolant.Do regular service with the right coolant and flush the radiator yearly to prevent this.

5. Spare Parts Quality and Compatibility

Although parts are available in Kenya, not all are genuine. Many Fit owners face:

• Short lived suspension components.
• Incompatible parts from wrong model years.

Always check the chassis code (e.g., GE6, GK5) to ensure you’re buying parts that fit your specific Honda Fit.

Other Minor Concerns Kenyan Owners Have Mentioned

• Paint peeling or fading (especially red models).
• Limited power for highway overtaking.
• Rear seat comfort not ideal for long trips.

Should You Still Buy a Honda Fit in Kenya?

Absolutely — but only if you go in prepared. It’s a great car if you’re:

• A city driver.
• Looking to save on fuel.
• Comfortable with regular maintenance.

Make sure you:

• Buy from a trusted dealer or have a mechanic inspect a used unit.
• Stick to genuine fluids and service intervals.
• Use trusted spare parts suppliers.

Conclusion

The Honda Fit is a great value especially for city dwellers in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu and other major towns. But like any vehicle, knowing the potential problems ahead of time helps you make informed decisions.

If you’re buying one or already own one, comment below — and stay tuned to Cheki.co.ke for more real, Kenyan focused car reviews and tips.