Europe Drone Registration – Operator Registration

In the system commonly referred to as "drone registration" in Europe, the drone itself is not registered.

According to European Union (EASA) rules, when you want to fly a drone, the system does not request the technical specifications of your drone, but rather your "Operator/Pilot" information directly. In other words, there is no "drone registration" in Europe; there is a "Pilot/Operator" registration that takes full responsibility for the drone. This system is implemented under EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) rules.

Single Registration, Common Identity (Operator ID)

At the very beginning of the process, you register as a person with the civil aviation authority of the country where you will fly. As a result of this registration, you are given a single Operator ID (Operator Number). This number:

• Is the official drone identity of the operator in Europe.
• Is independent of the number of drones owned.
• The same number is used on all drones.

Instead of recognizing devices individually, the system is based on recognizing the pilot responsible for those devices.

Is Registration in a Single Country Sufficient?

An operator registration made in a single EASA member country:

• ✅ Is valid in all other EASA countries.
• ✅ Does not require separate registration for each country.

However, this registration does NOT:

• ❌ Grant permission for urban flights.
• ❌ Provide freedom in tourist areas.
• ❌ Override local flight bans.

When is Operator (Pilot) Registration Mandatory?

Operator registration is mandatory if even one of the following conditions is met:

• If the drone weighs more than 250 grams.
• Even if it is under 250 grams, if it contains:
  • A camera
  • Audio recording capability
• If a commercial flight is to be performed.
• If an FPV drone is being used (in most countries).

Toy-class, camera-less drones are generally exempt.

Attaching the Operator Number to the Drone

When the registration process is completed, the unique code provided to you by the system must be physically added to the outer surface of your drone or to an easily accessible point such as the battery compartment. In this way, even if the drone is in the air, the owner of the drone can be identified immediately through digital systems (Remote ID) or physical checks.

Click here for European Pilot Certificate Guide

🌍 Official Registration Portals (EASA Member States)

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