Gun License in Kenya: Costs, Requirements & How to Apply (2025 Guide)

Owning a firearm in Kenya is a highly regulated privilege reserved for individuals who meet strict legal and security vetting standards. With rising concerns over personal safety, many Kenyans seek to understand the process and costs of legally acquiring a gun. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of everything you need to know about gun license—from application fees to the types of firearms permitted for civilians.

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How Much Does a Gun License Cost in Kenya?

The total cost of owning a firearm in Kenya includes:

1. Licensing Fees

• Application Fee: KSh 2,000 (paid at the police station).
• Firearm Certificate Fees:
  • Rifle or Shotgun: KSh 2,000
  • Pistol or Revolver: KSh 5,000
  • Fishing Gun: KSh 2,000
  • Industrial Injection Gun: KSh 1,500.
• Annual Renewal Fee: KSh 5,000.

2. Cost of the Firearm Itself

• Prices range from KSh 100,000 to KSh 350,000, depending on the type (e.g., pistols are more expensive than shotguns).

3. Additional Costs

• Certificate of Good Conduct (DCI): KSh 1,050.
• Psychiatric Evaluation: Fees vary by government hospital.
• Bank Statement Processing: Some banks may charge for certified statements.

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Requirements to Own a Gun in Kenya

Before applying, ensure you meet these conditions:

1. Age: Must be 21 years or older.
2. Mental Fitness: A psychiatric report from a government hospital confirming a sound mind.
3. Criminal Record: A Certificate of Good Conduct from the DCI.
4. Financial Stability: A 6-month bank statement proving steady income.
5. Tax Compliance: A Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC) from KRA.
6. Training: Proof of firearms handling training (varies by case).

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Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Submit a Request
   • Visit the nearest police station and submit a formal request to the Officer Commanding Station (OCS).
2. Fill Out Application Forms
   • Obtain forms from the Chief Licensing Officer in Nairobi.
3. Attach Required Documents
   • ID/Passport, psychiatric report, DCI clearance, bank statements, and 4 passport photos.
4. Undergo Vetting
   • The National Intelligence Service (NIS) and Firearms Licensing Board (FLB) conduct background checks.
5. Final Approval by Inspector General (IG)
   • The IG has the final say on approval.
6. Payment & Issuance
   • Pay the required fees and receive your Firearm Certificate.

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Restrictions on Firearm Ownership

• Prohibited Guns: Civilians cannot own military-grade weapons like AK-47s, G3s, or MP5s.
• Permitted Guns: Handguns, rifles, and shotguns for personal protection or sport shooting.
• Storage Rules: Firearms must be securely stored to prevent unauthorized access.

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Why Applications Get Rejected or Revoked

Rejection Reasons:

• Mental instability or criminal history.
• Failure to justify the need for a firearm.

Revocation Reasons:

• Misuse while drunk.
• Careless storage endangers others.
• Failure to renew the license.

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Conclusion

Getting a gun license in Kenya is an expensive and rigorous process, but necessary to ensure firearms don’t end up in the wrong hands. By following the legal steps—from vetting the application—you can secure a firearm for personal protection or sport. Always adhere to storage and usage regulations to avoid license revocation.

For official updates, visit the Firearms Licensing Board (FLB) website