The process of authorization and licence administration of private radio networks generally follows the process outlined here below:

• The applicant makes an application to CCK for authority to establish a Radio Network, by completing an application form (RF1) giving details of the proposed network configuration, and attaches all the necessary documents. A non-refundable application fee of KShs. 1,000 should accompany the application.
• CCK receives this application and peruses it for completeness. If not complete, the applicant will be advised to provide the missing details/documentation.
• CCK will forward applications requiring prior clearance from relevant government agencies as appropriate.
• All applications are subject to verification by the Commission Licensing Committee (CLC), whose membership is drawn from all CCK departments and relevant government agencies.
• The CLC considers the application and makes a collegiate decision on the licensing eligibility of the applicant, based on the legal, regulatory and policy standpoint.
• In case of an unfavorable finding by the CLC, CCK communicates to the applicant that the application has been considered and found to be without merit.
• In case of a favorable finding, CCK communicates the same and sends out a data form (RF3) to be completed by the applicant and returned with the requisite radio licence fees. The form requests for the provision of detailed technical and operating data of the equipment in proposed network.
• On receipt of the form (RF3) CCK checks whether the proposed equipment has been type approved. If the same has not been type approved, the applicant is requested to seek for type approval from the Standards and Type Approval Unit of CCK. Type approval involves tests and evaluation of the technical and operating parameters of the equipment against CCK’s specifications and international standards.
• After ensuring the technical acceptability of the equipment, CCK carries out a technical analysis of the proposed network and subsequently assigns suitable frequency(s) to the applicant. The applicant then requests the equipment suppliers to programme the radios to the assigned frequency(s) and both the supplier and the applicant complete and returns the declaration form (RF6).
• Upon receipt of the duly completed form RF6, CCK issues a licence to the applicant. This licence contain the following details:
• The validity of period of a frequency licence is one year and must be renewed at the expiry of the period by returning to CCK the expired licence with appropriate renewal fee.
• As a part of the licence administration process, CCK is bound to cancel or suspend licences in cases where licensees violate the conditions of the licence.

The frequency fee is charged as per the Kenya Communications Regulation.