Losing your National ID can be a stressful experience especially when it’s your key to accessing most government and financial services in Kenya. Good news is the Kenyan government now allows you to apply for a lost ID replacement online through the eCitizen portal and save yourself time and long queues at the civil registration offices.

This 2025 guide will show you how to do it step by step.

Who Can Apply for a Replacement?

You can apply for a replacement if:

  • Your ID was lost

  • Your ID was stolen

  • Your ID was damaged

  • Your ID was defaced or altered

Requirements for Replacing Your Lost ID

Before you start, make sure you have:

  • A valid eCitizen account

  • Your ID serial number (if available)

  • Ksh 100 for the application fee

  • Access to a printer for the application form

  • A visit to your nearest Huduma Centre for fingerprint verification

Step-by-Step: How to Replace Your Lost ID Online

Step 1: Log in to eCitizen
  • Visit: https://accounts.ecitizen.go.ke

  • Log in with your National ID number and password. If new, click Create Account.

Step 2: Go to Civil Registration Services
  • On the dashboard, select National Registration Bureau (NRB)

  • Choose Replace Lost ID

Step 3: Fill in the Application Form
  • Enter your details: Name, Date of Birth, ID Number (if known), Place of Birth

  • How did you lose or damage your ID?

  • Confirm your current address and contact info

Step 4: Make Payment
  • Pay the replacement fee of Ksh 100

  • Choose a payment method: M-PESA, Airtel Money, Card, or Bank

Step 5: Print the Application Slip
  • After payment, you’ll get an Acknowledgement Slip

  • Print this slip — it’s required for the next step

Step 6: Visit a Huduma Centre

Go to your nearest Huduma Centre with:

  • The printed Acknowledgement Slip

  • Any supporting document (e.g. Police Abstract if required)

  • Yourself — for fingerprint capture and verification

How Long?

  •  Replacement takes 10 to 14 working days
  • You’ll get an SMS once your ID is ready

Can I Track My Application?

Yes. You can:

  1. Log into your eCitizen account

  2. Go to “My Applications”

  3. View the status — e.g., Processing, Ready for Collection

What If I Lost My ID Number or Serial Number?

If you don’t know your ID number or serial number:

  • Visit a Huduma Centre with your birth certificate or KCPE/KCSE certificate

  • They will help you retrieve your records and proceed with replacement

Where Do I Collect the New ID?

Your ID will be sent to the Huduma Centre you selected during application. Make sure to carry the collection slip and your biometrics will be reverified.

Tips

  • Do NOT apply multiple times—it slows down processing

  • Use your official names as per birth certificate

  • Keep a photocopy or picture of your ID in your email or phone for emergencies