How to Get CRB Clearance Certificate in Kenya 2025: Complete Guide

A CRB (Credit Reference Bureau) clearance certificate has become essential for Kenyans seeking employment, applying for loans, or renting property. This document proves your creditworthiness and shows potential employers or lenders that you have no outstanding debts or defaults.

What is a CRB Clearance Certificate?

A CRB clearance certificate, also known as a Certificate of Clearance (CoC), is an official document that confirms your credit status with Kenyas licensed Credit Reference Bureaus. It shows:

• Your credit score
• Outstanding loans (if any)
• Payment history
• Any defaults or negative listings
• Overall creditworthiness rating

Why You Need a CRB Clearance Certificate

For Employment (Chapter Six Requirements):

Under Kenyas Constitution Chapter Six on Leadership and Integrity, many employers especially government institutions and large corporations require a CRB clearance certificate as part of the hiring process.

For Loan Applications:

Banks and mobile lenders check your CRB status before approving loans. A clean CRB record improves your chances of approval.

For Rental Applications:

Landlords and property management companies increasingly request CRB clearance to verify potential tenants financial responsibility.

For Business Tenders:

Government and corporate tenders often require CRB clearance as part of the vendor qualification process.

Kenyas Three Licensed CRBs

Kenya has three licensed Credit Reference Bureaus regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK):

CRB Clearance Certificate Cost (2025)

How to Get CRB Clearance from TransUnion

Step 1: Check Your Credit Status

1. Dial *212# on your phone
2. Select Credit Report
3. Pay KSh 50 via M-Pesa Paybill 212121 (Account: Your ID number)
4. Receive your credit report via SMS

Step 2: Request Clearance Certificate

1. Dial *212# again
2. Select Request Clearance Certificate
3. Pay KSh 2,200 via M-Pesa Paybill 212121
4. Receive your certificate via email within 24-48 hours

How to Get CRB Clearance from Metropol

Step 1: Check Your Credit Status

1. Dial *433# on your phone
2. Select Get Credit Status
3. Pay KSh 100 via M-Pesa Paybill 220388 (Account: Your ID number)

Step 2: Request Clearance Certificate

1. Dial *433#
2. Select Get Clearance Certificate
3. Pay KSh 2,200 via the same Paybill
4. Certificate delivered via email

How to Get CRB Clearance from Creditinfo

1. Visit ke.creditinfo.com
2. Click Register and enter your ID number
3. Verify your phone number via OTP
4. Select Clearance Certificate
5. Pay KSh 2,200 via M-Pesa Paybill 3025393
6. Download your certificate from the portal

What to Do If You Have a Negative CRB Listing

Step 1: Identify the Lender

Your credit report shows which institution reported the negative listing. This could be banks, mobile lenders (M-Shwari, Fuliza, Tala, Branch), SACCOs, or microfinance institutions.

Step 2: Settle the Outstanding Debt

Contact the lender and pay off the debt in full. Get an official payment receipt and written confirmation.

Step 3: Request Listing Removal

Submit settlement documents to the lender. The lender should update the CRB within 7 days.

Step 4: Verify Your Status

After 7-14 days, check your credit report again to confirm the negative listing has been removed.

How Long Does CRB Clearance Take?

CRB Clearance Certificate Validity

A CRB clearance certificate is valid only on the date of issue. Request your certificate close to when you need it, as most employers and landlords require certificates issued within the last 30 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get CRB clearance if I have an active loan?

Yes. Having an active loan does not prevent clearance only defaults or negative listings affect your certificate.

How do I know which CRB has my data?

All three CRBs share data from the same financial institutions. Your records likely exist in all three databases.

Is CRB clearance free for the first time?

Under the 2020 CRB regulations, first-time applicants may receive a free clearance certificate.

Can I dispute incorrect CRB information?

Yes. Contact the reporting CRB with evidence of the error.

How long do negative listings stay on my CRB record?

Negative listings typically remain for 5 years unless the debt is settled and the lender requests removal.

Do mobile loans like Fuliza and M-Shwari affect CRB?

Yes. Unpaid Fuliza balances after 120 days result in CRB listing. M-Shwari defaults are also reported.

Conclusion

Getting a CRB clearance certificate in Kenya is straightforward once you understand the process. Whether you use TransUnion, Metropol, or Creditinfo, the steps are similar: check your status, settle any outstanding debts, and request your certificate for KSh 2,200.

Last updated: December 2025. CRB services regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK).