Voter Registration Kenya 2026: Step-by-Step Guide (IEBC)
To register as a voter in Kenya in 2026, visit an Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) constituency office or selected Huduma Centre with your original ID or passport, fill Form A, and complete biometric + iris capture. Registration is free and must be done in person.
How to Register as a Voter in Kenya (Quick Steps)
- Visit a Registration Centre
Go to your nearest IEBC Constituency Office or Huduma Centre. - Present Original ID/Passport
Only original documents are accepted (no copies or waiting cards). - Fill Form A
Complete the official voter registration form at the centre. - Biometric + Iris Capture
Your fingerprints, photo, and iris scan are captured using BVR kits. - Select Polling Station
Choose where you will vote. - Receive Acknowledgement Slip
Keep it as proof of registration.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify under Article 83 of the Constitution, you must:
- Be a Kenyan citizen
- Be 18 years or older
- Have an original National ID or valid Kenyan passport
- Be of sound mind
- Not have been convicted of an election offence in the last 5 years
Where to Register
You can register at:
- IEBC Constituency Offices (nationwide)
- Selected Huduma Centres
Note: Registration may be temporarily suspended in areas with active by-elections.
New Update: Iris Biometric Registration (2025+)
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission introduced iris scanning as an additional biometric identifier alongside fingerprints and facial recognition.
Legal Basis:
- Elections Act (Cap 7)
- Data Protection Act, 2019
Purpose:
- Prevent duplicate registrations
- Improve voter identification accuracy
- Provide fallback verification if fingerprints fail
How to Verify Your Voter Registration Status
After registering, confirm your details using:
1. SMS
- Send your ID or Passport number to 70000
2. Online Portal
- Visit the official IEBC voter verification portal via the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission website
How to Transfer Your Voting Location
If you relocate:
- Visit the nearest IEBC office in your new area
- Carry your original ID
- Request a polling station transfer
FAQs About Voter Registration
When can someone be denied voter registration?
You may be denied if:
- You are under 18
- You lack an original ID/passport
- You are an undischarged bankrupt
- You were convicted of an election offence in the last 5 years
- A court declares you of unsound mind
Can you register more than once?
No. Multiple registration is illegal and punishable by law.
What is the penalty for double registration?
- Fine up to KES 100,000, or
- Imprisonment up to 1 year, or both
- Disqualification from the current and next election
Can you transfer your voter registration?
Yes. You can transfer to another constituency during the registration period.
Is voter registration free in Kenya?
Yes. It is completely free.
Can you register as a voter online?
No. Registration requires physical presence for biometric and iris capture. Only verification can be done online.
Related Articles
- How to verify IEBC voter status
- How to replace a lost ID in Kenya
- Huduma Centre services in Kenya
- IEBC voter transfer guide