EASA Drone Pilot Certificate: How to Fly in Europe?

Since 2021, EU Drone Regulations require a pilot license for anyone operating a drone over 250g. If your aircraft is below the 250g limit, you are generally exempt from the UAS pilot certificate, though basic safety knowledge is essential.

Certificate Categories: Which One Do You Need?

Europe classifies "Open Category" drone operations into three subcategories based on the risk level:

• A1 (Light Drones): Allows flying over uninvolved people (but not crowds). Generally for drones weighing between 250g and 900g (Class C1).
• A3 (Safe Distance): Requires flying at least 150 meters away from residential, commercial, industrial, or recreational areas. For drones up to 25kg (Class C2, C3, C4).
• A2 (Urban / Close Proximity): Allows flying as close as 30 meters to people (or 5 meters in "low speed" mode). This requires an additional theoretical exam.

📋 Essential Information

• Age Limit: The general minimum age is 16. (Some countries may allow a lower age with parental supervision).
• Residency: Even if you are not an EU citizen, you can apply for a certificate from the Civil Aviation Authority of the first EU country you plan to fly in.
• Validity: A certificate obtained from any EU member state is valid in all EU countries, plus Norway, Switzerland, and Iceland for 5 years.
• Requirement: A pilot certificate is mandatory for all drone models weighing 250g or more (Classes C1, C2, C3, C4).

🎓 Training and Online Exam Process

1. Online Training: You are not required to attend any private courses to get a drone certificate in Europe; passing the exam on the official government website is legally sufficient. However, if you are unfamiliar with aviation terminology or want professional support to pass the exam on your first try, you may choose to join private courses. While these courses make it easier to learn and pass, remember that you must still obtain your legal certificate through the official authority's system.

2. Online Exam: It usually consists of a 40-question multiple-choice exam. The passing score is 75%.

3. Fees: Fees vary by country, typically ranging from €10 to €50 (some countries offer free options).

4. Certification: Once you pass the exam, your digital certificate (in PDF format with a QR code) is generated instantly.

Europe Drone Registration – Operator Registration

In Europe, drones are not registered individually. Instead, the person or organization responsible for the drone must register as an Operator. You receive one Operator ID and apply it to all your drones.

📝 Information Required for Registration

When filling out the official registration form, you will typically be asked for:

• Personal Details: Full name, date of birth, and permanent address.
• Identification: A digital copy of your Passport or National ID.
• Insurance Policy: In most countries (e.g., Germany, Italy), you must provide your Third-Party Liability Insurance policy number.
• Contact: A valid email and phone number for legal notifications.

⏳ Validity and Renewal

• Operator ID Validity: Usually valid for 1 to 3 years depending on the country.
• Renewal: You must renew your registration before it expires through the same portal. Your Operator ID usually remains the same.
• Labeling: The ID must be physically printed or stickered on the drone body or inside the battery compartment.

🌍 Official Registration Portals (EASA Member States)

Registration in one EASA country is valid in all. Choose the country of your first entry: