Registering for a Teachers Service Commission (TSC) number remains the essential first formal step towards a recognized teaching career in Kenya.

By 2026 the entire process is conducted exclusively online, digitized, and paid for through the Government’s eCitizen platform. The Commission does not accept paper applications under any circumstances.

Prospective teachers must therefore prepare digital copies of every required document before beginning the registration.

Here is a complete, step-by-step guide to getting it right the first time.

Applicants must upload clear, authentic scanned copies, preferably in PDF format. The following documents are required:

  • National identity card (both front and back)
  • Primary school certificate (KCPE) Secondary school certificate (KCSE, KCE, KACE, EACE or EAACE)
  • University or college graduation certificate
  • Full set of academic transcripts merged into a single PDF
  • Valid Certificate of Good Conduct issued by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations
  • Recent clearance certificate from a licensed Credit Reference Bureau
  • Completed and officially stamped GP69 medical examination form from a government health facility
  • KRA PIN certificate
  • Recent colour passport-size photograph with a neutral background

Expatriate teachers must also attach a letter of clearance from the Ministry of Education Vetting Committee.

Once the necessary documents are ready, proceed to the official registration platform.

Step 1: Open the official TSC registration portal

Visit the Teachers Service Commission’s official website at https://www.tsc.go.ke and follow the link to its teacher registration services.

Select the appropriate registration option. Kenyan citizens applying for the first time should choose the new-registration category intended for Kenyan citizens.

Avoid submitting sensitive personal documents through unofficial websites or paying individuals who claim they can guarantee registration.

Step 2: Enter your personal details

The application form requests basic identification and contact information. The initial fields shown in the supplied application instructions include:

  • National identity card number.
  • Surname.
  • Mobile phone number.
  • Email address.
  • KRA PIN.
  • Registration category.
  • Whether you are a trained teacher.
  • KCSE, KCE, KACE, EACE or EAACE mean grade, as applicable.
  • Year of examination.

Complete each field accurately and select the category that corresponds to your circumstances.

Step 3: Complete the remaining application sections
After entering the initial details, click the button to proceed to the next page.
Continue through the application, providing the information requested about your academic qualifications, professional training and supporting documents.
The commission’s instructions state that all sections must be completed in full. If you cannot finish the form in one sitting, the system allows you to save your progress and return later, according to the supplied guidance.
TSC is very clear on the rules of engagement:
1. Complete disclosure is mandatory. All sections of the registration application must be completed in full. Do not leave blanks.
2. False information is a criminal offence. It is a serious offence to willfully give false information to the Teachers Service Commission. Under Section 44 of the TSC Act No. 20 of 2012, any person convicted may be fined up to KES 100,000 or imprisoned for twelve months, or both.
3. You can save and resume. The portal allows you to save part of the form and complete it at a later time if necessary.
4. Scan only original documents. Do not scan photocopies.
5. Fees are non-refundable and paid online only. As from 1st July 2023, all fees are paid during the application process through Government Paybill Business Number 222222 or other approved Government methods via eCitizen — M-Pesa, Airtel Money, KCB Cash, Equity Cash, or E-Agent.
  • New TSC Number Registration cost: KES 1,050
  • Duplicate Certificate Application: KES 2,050
Document clarity is decisive; low-resolution scans are almost invariably rejected. The GP69 form must bear the signature and official stamp of a government medical officer. The passport photograph should show professional attire against a plain background. Applicants are advised to assemble every document in advance and to verify that transcripts have been correctly merged before commencing the online process.
Those who encounter difficulty with scanning, PDF consolidation or navigation of the portal may seek technical assistance from specialist cyber services.
Thanks for reading, and success as you apply.