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How to change your name on a Kenyan National ID
31st March, 2026 01:34 PM
For Kenyans who are 18 years old and above, a national ID is more than just a card, it is proof of identity, access to services, and a gateway to civic participation.
However, life changes sometimes require updates to this important document.
Whether you have gotten married, divorced, or simply wish to correct or change your name, Huduma Kenya provides a clear legal process for updating your national ID card.
Legal process
Changing your name on a Kenyan national ID is a formal legal process handled through Huduma Kenya.
According to information provided by Huduma Kenya, this process falls under the ‘change of particulars’ and allows citizens to update personal information on their ID cards after major life events.
Some of the events that allow you to update your particulars on your ID card include changing your surname after marriage, reverting to a previous name after divorce, correcting spelling errors, or officially adopting a new personal name.
This process ensures that your national ID reflects your current legal and personal identity, which is essential for accessing government services, opening bank accounts, registering as a voter, and more.
“Persons holding an ID card can change from one civil status to another, e.g. Change of name upon marriage, change of location, additional name, etc.,” Huduma Kenya outlined.
What you need to apply
The documents required for a name change vary depending on the reason, but Huduma Kenya commonly requires a marriage certificate for name changes due to marriage, a Deed Poll for official name changes unrelated to marriage, a birth certificate, and school-leaving certificates.
Additionally, a sworn affidavit, a confirmation letter from an administrative officer, a copy of the parents’ ID, and a divorce certificate are needed if reverting to a previous name.
It is important to ensure that all documents are original and properly certified, as any discrepancies may delay the application.
“Requirements: Marriage Certificate, Deed Poll, School-leaving Certificates, Sworn affidavits, Confirmation letters from the administrative office, Birth Certificate, Copy of parents’ ID card, Parental consent to marriage, and Divorce Certificate,” Huduma Kenya outlined.
Cost and Timeline
The fee for changing particulars on a national ID is Ksh1,000, and processing typically takes around 10 days.
“Cost: Kshs 1000 and Timelines: 10 days”, Huduma Kenya outlined.
It is worth noting that before visiting, you also need to book an appointment online through the Huduma Kenya website to ensure your application is processed smoothly.
