Ready to fly? How to get a drone pilot licence in Kenya and start earning legally

Owning a drone in Kenya isn’t just a flex anymore, it’s a legit hustle. From TikTok-worthy aerial shots and YouTube travel vlogs to real estate marketing, weddings, farm surveys, and even deliveries - drones are doing the most.

But before you send that drone buzzing over Uhuru Park or your client’s shamba, here’s the law: you need a licence to fly one.

So how do you get certified to fly a drone legally in Kenya? The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has laid out a clear path, and we’re breaking it down for you step by step:

Who needs a drone licence in Kenya?

You do, if:

• You're using a drone for business, content creation or public service.

• You're flying in controlled or restricted airspace.

• You're doing paid gigs or operating on behalf of a company.

Eligibility requirements for a drone pilot licence

To qualify for a Remote Pilot Licence (RPL), you must:

• Be at least 18 years old.

• Hold a valid Class 3 aviation medical certificate.

• Understand and speak English.

• Complete training at a KCAA-approved drone school.

• Pass both a theory exam and a practical flying test.

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Step-by-step: How to get your drone pilot licence in Kenya

1. Enrol in a KCAA-approved drone school

This is your first stop. KCAA only recognizes drone training from registered Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Training Organizations.

In class, you’ll learn:

• Air law and safety rules.

• Meteorology and weather planning.

• Radio communication.

• Flight controls and emergency handling.

The course includes both classroom theory and real drone flying time. Training typically takes a few weeks, depending on the school you are enrolled in.

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2. Sit for the KCAA theory exam

Once your instructor says you’re ready, you’ll take the official KCAA theory test. Expect questions on drone laws, airspace rules, weather, navigation, and operational safety.

3. Complete a hands-on practical flight test

Here’s where you prove you can actually fly a drone. A KCAA examiner will assess how you:

• Do pre-flight checks.

• Handle takeoff and landing.

• Navigate safely.

• Respond to emergencies.

• Follow air traffic protocols.

You will be tested on the same type of drone you plan to operate commercially.

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4. Get a medical certificate

All licensed drone pilots in Kenya need a Class 3 medical certificate. It’s issued by KCAA-approved Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs). It checks your basic health, eyesight, and hearing.

• Valid for 24 months if you're under 40.

• Valid for 12 months if you're 40 and older.

5. Apply for your licence

Once you’ve completed training, exams, and medical checks, you can apply for your licence by submitting the following documents to the Personnel Licensing Office at KCAA headquarters in Nairobi:

• Filled Form M-PEL001 (KCAA's official application form for the issue or renewal of a Student Pilot Licence)

• 2 passport photos.

• Copy of your national ID or passport.

• Proof of training and test results.

• Valid Class 3 medical certificate.

• Payment of the required licence fee (Check the KCAA site for rates)

Once approved, boom, You’re officially a licensed drone pilot.

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How long is the licence valid for?

As long as your medical certificate is valid and you keep flying regularly (and logging your hours), your licence stays active. If you go long without flying, KCAA might require a refresher test.

What happens if you fly a drone without a licence?

Don’t risk it. Flying commercially without a licence is illegal under the Civil Aviation (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Regulations, 2020.

If caught, you could face:

• Fines ranging from Sh1 million to Sh2 million.

• On-the-spot drone confiscation.

• Criminal prosecution under the Civil Aviation Act.

Plus, no client wants to work with someone operating illegally. Protect your gear, your name, and your bag.

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Drones are the future. Whether you’re chasing creative shots, farming solutions, or big business contracts, getting licensed is the smartest move. It keeps you legal, respected, and ready to fly high in any Kenyan airspace.

So take the course, do the test, and join the league of certified drone pilots changing the game.