OverviewAccording to the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), drone operations are legal in South Africa, but operators must follow Part 101 of the South African Civil Aviation Regulations.Private UsePrivate RPAS operations are allowed only for personal use where there is no commercial outcome, interest, or gain. Pilots must still comply with liability, privacy, and other applicable laws.General Operating RulesAlways operate safely and keep the aircraft within visual line of sight.Fly only in daylight and clear weather conditions.Inspect the aircraft before each flight.Do not operate negligently or in a way that endangers people, property, or other aircraft.Do not fly within 50 m of people, crowds, public roads, or private property without permission.Do not fly near manned aircraft.Do not fly within 10 km of an aerodrome (airport, helipad, or airfield) without approval.Do not fly in controlled, restricted, or prohibited airspace without approval.Do not exceed 400 ft AGL for RPAS (or 150 ft for toy aircraft) unless specifically approved by SACAA.Registration RequirementsUnder Part 101.02.4(1), no remotely piloted aircraft may be operated in South Africa unless it has been issued a certificate of registration by the Director.SACAA Registration FormsCA-47R1: New RPA registrationCA-47R2: Change of ownershipCA-47R3: Deletion due to accident or exportCA-47R4: Amendments (company name, address, manufacturer name)CA-47R5: Duplicate certificate (lost, stolen, damaged, or destroyed)These forms are listed on SACAA airworthiness/industry forms pages (availability of specific pages may vary).Pilot Licensing (RPL) RequirementsBefore applying to SACAA, applicants must complete training at an approved training organization (ATO).Minimum age: 18 yearsCurrent medical assessment requiredPass applicable theoretical and practical assessmentsPass radiotelephony examinationEnglish Language Proficiency (ELP) level 4 or higherSubmit all required documentation to SACAAInstructor Ratings and CreditsRemote pilots may apply for instructor ratings, and instructors may apply for designation as remote pilot examiners. Prior learning/experience may be credited (for example, pilot licenses, equivalent military qualifications, and relevant ATC qualifications).Training PathRPAS training is delivered by SACAA-approved ATOs. On successful completion of a competency-based theory and practical program, the provider may apply to SACAA for issuance of the Remote Pilot Licence (RPL).NoteSouth Africa has also discussed additional UAS policy measures, including broader registration requirements and corridor concepts. Always verify current requirements directly with SACAA.Technical GuidanceSee SACAA UAS/Personnel Licensing technical guidance materials for current operational standards and updates.