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!