Learning how to check your credit score in Kenya takes just a few minutes and can save you from a rejected loan. Your credit score Kenya lenders look at is held by one of three licensed credit reference bureaus, and by law you can check it free once a year with each. This guide shows you exactly how to check your credit score in Kenya, what the number means, and how to get a CRB clearance certificate, so you know where you stand before you ever apply for a loan.
Table of Contents
Key takeaways
- Kenya has three licensed credit reference bureaus: Creditinfo, Metropol and TransUnion, all regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya.
- You are entitled to one free credit report a year from each bureau.
- Metropol scores run from 200 to 900 (600 and above is good); TransUnion runs 0 to 999 (680 and above is good).
- A CRB clearance certificate confirms your status and costs around KSh 2,200.
- Educational only, not advice. Check your credit score before applying for any loan.
The three CRBs in Kenya
Your credit history in Kenya is kept by three credit reference bureaus, all licensed and regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya: Creditinfo Kenya, Metropol CRB and TransUnion Kenya. Each collects your loan and repayment records from banks, SACCOs and mobile lenders, and turns them into a credit score. Because lenders may report to any of the three, your credit score Kenya-wide can differ slightly between bureaus, so it is worth checking more than one.
How to check your credit score in Kenya (free)
You can check your credit score in Kenya through any of the three bureaus. Remember you get one free credit report a year from each, so you can spread your checks across the year.
- Metropol: dial *433#, use the Metropol Crystobol app, or visit metropol.co.ke. A small registration fee may apply for some services.
- TransUnion: dial *272#, download the TransUnion Nipashe app, or visit transunion.co.ke. Register with your national ID and phone number.
- Creditinfo: visit creditinfo.co.ke, register, and request your consumer credit report.
Whichever you choose, you will need your national ID and the phone number linked to your accounts. Your report lists your loans, their status, and your credit score.
What your credit score means
Each bureau uses its own scale, but the idea is the same: a higher number means lower risk and better loan terms. As a rough guide, on the common 200 to 900 scale, 700 to 900 is excellent, 600 to 699 is good, 500 to 599 is fair, and below 500 is poor. TransUnion uses a wider 0 to 999 scale where roughly 680 and above is considered good. If your credit score is low, do not panic, it can be rebuilt. Read our guide on how to improve your credit score in Kenya, and learn what counts as a good credit score.
The CRB clearance certificate
A CRB clearance certificate is a signed document from a bureau confirming your credit status. It is often asked for by employers, especially banks, by some landlords, and by certain government agencies. Unlike your free annual report, a clearance certificate carries a fee of around KSh 2,200. If you have a default holding you back, you clear it first: see our guide on how to clear a CRB listing in Kenya.
Listed is not the same as blacklisted
A common myth is that being on a CRB means you are permanently blacklisted. In reality, the CRB simply holds your record, both good and bad. A negative listing shows a missed or defaulted loan, but lenders now use your full history and score to decide, not a single blacklist. Clearing the default and building good repayment habits improves your standing over time. Knowing your credit score before you borrow lets you fix problems early and get better rates, which our loan calculator can help you compare.
Frequently asked questions
How can I check my credit score in Kenya for free?
You are entitled to one free credit report a year from each of the three bureaus. Use Metropol (*433# or the Crystobol app), TransUnion (*272# or the Nipashe app) or Creditinfo online, and register with your national ID and linked phone number.
What is a good credit score in Kenya?
On the common 200 to 900 scale, 600 and above is generally good and 700 and above is excellent. On TransUnion’s 0 to 999 scale, roughly 680 and above is good. A higher score means lenders see you as lower risk and offer better terms.
Does checking my own credit score lower it?
No. Checking your own credit report is a soft check and does not affect your score. It is a good habit to check regularly so you can catch errors and fix any defaults before you apply for credit.
Disclaimer: The content on Sarafu is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Bureau contact methods, scales and fees are as understood at the time of writing (2026) and can change. Always confirm current details directly with Creditinfo, Metropol, TransUnion or the Central Bank of Kenya.
