What the theory test involves

The NTSA theory test is a computer-based or paper-based examination that assesses whether you have the knowledge to drive safely on Kenyan roads. It covers six main areas. Here is what each area involves, with examples of the questions you will face.

1. Road Signs, Signals and Markings

You must recognise and explain the meaning of regulatory, warning, and information signs. You must know road markings — center lines, edge lines, stop lines, pedestrian crossings, arrows — and what action each requires.

• What does a red octagon with white lettering mean, and what must you do?
• What is the difference between a broken white line and a solid white line on a two-way road?
• What does a yellow diamond-shaped sign with a black curve indicate?
• At a zebra crossing with no traffic lights, who has priority?

2. Road Rules and Right of Way

You must know the rules for junctions, roundabouts, pedestrian crossings, overtaking, speed limits, and parking.

• At an unmarked junction on a murram road, which vehicle has priority?
• You approach a roundabout. A vehicle already circulating signals left to exit at your entry road. What is your obligation?
• When is overtaking prohibited on a Kenyan dual carriageway?
• What is the default speed limit in a built-up area unless otherwise signed?
• On the Model Town Board, how do you enter and leave an angle-parking bay?

3. Vehicle Knowledge and Controls

You must know dashboard warning lights and instruments, pre-trip safety checks, how vehicle condition affects safety, and basic maintenance.

• What does the red oil-can warning light indicate, and what should you do?
• Before a long journey, what five items must you check on your vehicle?
• How does tread depth below 2 mm affect wet-weather braking?
• What is the correct tyre pressure, and when should you check it?

4. Defensive Driving and Hazard Perception

You must demonstrate understanding of safe following distances, stopping distances, hazard anticipation, and adapting to Kenyan road conditions.

• What is the two-second rule, and when should you extend it to four seconds?
• How does doubling your speed affect your braking distance on dry tarmac?
• A bodaboda swerves into your lane without warning. What is your first action?
• You are driving on murram behind a matatu. It stops suddenly to pick up passengers. What hazards must you anticipate?

5. First Aid and Emergency Response

You must know scene safety, emergency calls, bleeding control, fracture immobilisation, burn treatment, CPR basics, and the recovery position.

• At an accident scene, what are your first three priorities before assisting the injured?
• A passenger has a deep cut on their forearm and is bleeding heavily. What do you do?
• How do you check if an unconscious person is breathing?
• When should you move an injured person from a vehicle?

6. Traffic Offences and Penalties

You must know the NTSA point system, common offences and penalties, licence suspension rules, and obligations after an accident.

• How many penalty points lead to automatic licence suspension?
• What is the penalty for driving while using a handheld mobile phone?
• After an accident causing injury, what are your legal obligations?
• What is the blood alcohol limit for a professional (PSV) driver in Kenya?

Test Format

• Questions: 50 multiple-choice
• Pass mark: 80% (40 correct answers)
• Time limit: 30 minutes
• Languages: English and Kiswahili at most test centres
• Retest: If you fail, you must wait 21 days and pay the full fee again

How to Prepare

The theory test is where many candidates fail — not from lack of driving skill, but from poor preparation on signs, rules, and first aid. Study each of the six areas above. Use the free lessons on NTSAcademy, take mock tests until you consistently score above 85%, and review your weak areas until they are strong.

Passing the theory test is not about memorizing answers. It is about understanding the rules well enough to apply them when you are behind the wheel.