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:
Log into your eCitizen account
Go to “My Applications”
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