How to Get a Kenyan Identity Card: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Last Updated: June 18, 2025

The process of applying for an ID in Kenya can be quite a hectic experience. The following guidelines are to make it easier for you. These steps are only to be followed by Kenyan citizens.Take note that they may vary from place to place with Kisauni used as an example.

Steps

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Ensure you have both parents IDs & photocopies for each, original birth certificate and photocopy ,school leaving certificate and a photocopy (results slip and photocopy if available) and lastly your birth clinic card.^{[1]
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He/she should give you a signed letter if satisfied. If not he may ask you to see the village elder. e.g in Kisauni, Mombasa you are to take the letter to the D.O's office in Kongowea. If you're not from Mombasa ask your Assistant Chief where the letter should be taken to.

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Ensure you arrive at the District Officer's office early in the morning together with all your documents due to the large number of people. See the officer on duty who should give you a small form to fill. In Kongowea it is the door at the middle.
You may return it on another day.
The officer should take your thumb prints^{[2]
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Return the forms to Kongowea (where you got the forms). The officers should take your finger prints . All the fingers and palms. They should then take your picture (possibly at a fee), if not, ensure you have passport size photos.
Check the status of your ID at www.identity.go.ke

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I applied for my card in February (when I lost it), and I have still not heard anything back. What can I do?

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Contact the Huduma Centre. It shouldn't have taken more than two months to replace.

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Can I apply online?

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No. You need to apply in person.

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Can I get a Kenyan ID if I don't have documents from my father?

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Yes. The Kenyan constitution states that if either one of your parents is Kenyan, then you are too. So you don't need your father's documents.

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Tips

Be an early bird, persevere and be patient.

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Due to constitutional changes, the guidelines are subject to change.

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The new IDs being issued are plastic and coloured.

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Warnings

ID application is free. DO NOT pay any officer.

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Take care of your waiting card and ID. You will be charged to get a replacement ID.

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