Replacement of ID Cards in Kenya: Cost and Process 2025

The replacement of ID cards in Kenya is essential for every citizen, whether the ID is lost, stolen, or damaged. Understanding the process ensures you save time, avoid unnecessary fees, and comply with legal requirements.

Recent government updates in 2025 introduced a temporary waiver on replacement fees. This article provides a practical, step-by-step guide on replacing ID cards, the documents you need, the cost, and how to navigate both online and physical service centres.

Why Replacement of ID Cards is Important

National IDs are a critical legal document in Kenya. They are required for voting, opening bank accounts, accessing government services, and identification in general. Losing or damaging your ID can disrupt daily activities.

Legal requirement: Citizens above 18 must have a valid ID.
Access to services: Banks, hospitals, and government programs require a national ID.
Prevent fraud: Reporting lost IDs prevents identity theft.

Current Cost of Replacing ID Cards in Kenya (2025)

As of late 2025, the cost of replacement depends on the government’s waiver status:

Standard fee: KSh 1,000 (pre-waiver).
Temporary fee waiver: Officially, the government waived replacement fees for six months starting 30 October 2025. Citizens may currently replace lost or damaged IDs without paying the standard fee. (source)
Police abstract: Some minor fees (~KSh 100–200) may apply for reporting the loss at the police station.
Miscellaneous costs: Passport-size photos, transport, or photocopying.

Step-by-Step Process to Replace Your ID Card

Step 1: Report the Lost or Damaged ID

If your ID is lost or stolen, immediately visit your nearest police station to obtain a police abstract. This report serves as proof of loss and protects against misuse of your ID.

Step 2: Apply via eCitizen or Huduma Centre

Kenya allows citizens to apply for replacement of ID cards either online or at Huduma Centres:

Online: Log in to the eCitizen portal, select “Replacement of ID Card,” upload your police abstract, and complete the application.
Physical centres: Visit a Huduma Centre, provide the police abstract, fill out forms, and submit your documents. Biometric verification is performed on-site.

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

Ensure you have:

Police abstract reporting loss or theft.
Old ID (if available) or your ID number.
Passport-size photographs.
Proof of citizenship (if needed).

Step 4: Biometric Verification and Payment (If Applicable)

At the service centre, fingerprints are taken to verify your identity. If the fee waiver is not applied, payment (KSh 1,000–1,050) is made through the eCitizen portal or in person.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

Processing can take a few weeks. You will receive an SMS notification when your replacement ID is ready. During this period, ensure your contact details are up to date on eCitizen.

Step 6: Collect Your New ID

Collect your ID in person from the service centre. Bring any collection slips or identification documents requested. Your new ID replaces the old one and is now legally valid.

Temporary Fee Waiver in 2025

The Kenyan government introduced a six-month waiver for ID replacement fees starting 30 October 2025. Citizens can apply for a replacement free of charge during this period. This was aimed at ensuring every adult citizen has access to an ID card. (source)

Internal Links to Related Content

Learn more about using Huduma Centres efficiently for all government services.
Check our eCitizen portal guide for online applications and digital verification.
Find tips on how to report lost IDs safely and legally.