The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has opened the licence renewal period for doctors, dentists, and health facilities for the year 2026, urging all practitioners to complete the process early to avoid penalties or disruptions.
In a public notice issued on Thursday, October 9, the council said the renewal process is now active on its Online Services Portal and will remain open until October 31.
“Licence renewal for medical/dental practitioners, COHO and health institutions for 2026 is now open,” KMPDC stated.
“This is your opportunity to continue ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and keep your practice in line with the latest guidelines. An active license is essential for upholding the quality and safety of healthcare services.”
The council encouraged medical professionals to apply ahead of the deadline to prevent last-minute delays. It warned that operating without a valid licence is a regulatory offence that can attract penalties, including suspension from practice.
As part of this process, all practitioners must update their personal details, while health facilities are required to file reports indicating their operational status. This, the council explained, helps in maintaining an accurate national database that supports oversight and ensures ethical practice across the healthcare sector.
KMPDC also reminded practitioners that any changes such as relocation, change of ownership, or services offered, must be promptly reported to the council. Detailed renewal guidelines and steps are available on the licensing portal.
The council said its licensing function is central to its mission of ensuring that only qualified and compliant individuals and institutions provide healthcare services in Kenya. Licensing also helps the public verify the credentials of healthcare providers through KMPDC’s searchable public register.
In June, KMPDC shut down 728 health facilities found to be operating without compliance.
The crackdown followed inspections of 1,983 facilities across several counties, including Nairobi, Mandera, Wajir, Kisii, and Nyamira. Of those inspected, 728 were closed for serious non-compliance, including 394 in Nairobi.