Flying a drone in the EU, these are the laws.
If you have bought or plan to buy a drone, it is wise to first familiarise yourself with the drone laws that apply in the EU. For several years now, the same drone laws have applied across the EU. It is important to know the current drone laws in the EU to avoid high fines. We would like to inform you about the most important drone laws in Italy. The most important laws and regulations for flying a drone in the EU are listed below.
For most drones, you need the EU Drone Licence. This consists of two parts: the Basic Certificate (A1-A3) and the Supplementary Certificate (A2).
- Mandatory for drones from 250 grams
- The drone may fly a maximum height of 120 metres in the EU
- The drone must be flown within direct sight of the pilots
- You must register yourself as a drone pilot
- You have to attach an operator number to your drone
Choose your license to fly in the EU
Fast, easy and 100% online
Drone License (A2)
- Upgrade your A1-A3 license to A2
- Fly almost anywhere in Europe
- Official EASA-recognized certificate
Drone License
- Get both A1-A3 and A2 in one package
- Fly almost anywhere in Europe
- Valid in all EU countries + Norway, Iceland, Switzerland
- Digital pdf document
Drone License (start)
- For drones from 250 grams and above
- Valid in all EU countries + Norway, Iceland, Switzerland
- Official EASA-recognized certificate
FAQ
What are the basic drone laws in the EU
The basic drone laws for flying in the open category in the EU the EU and EASA member states: a maximum flight altitude of 120 metres, always flying visual line of sight and keep the drone away from no-fly zones and not-involved persons.
Do I need an EU Drone certificate to comply with the drone laws in the EU?
If you want to fly a drone over 250g in Italy, you are required by the drone laws in the EU to obtain an EU drone certificate.
Do I need a registration number to comply with drone laws in the EU?
Before you fly a drone in the EU, you need to register yourself, this also applies to drones under 250 grams with a camera. Tourists must register in the country where you will be flying first.
Which certificate (A1-A3, A2) do I need according to the drone laws in the EU?
According to drone laws in the EU, you need an EU Drone Certificate before flying a drone. The EU Drone Licence has two certificates: the basic certificate and the supplementary certificate. A1-A3 is the basic certificate. If you want to fly a drone in the EU, you need to obtain this certificate from 250 grams. A2 is the supplementary certificate. This certificate allows you to fly slightly heavier aircraft in residential areas, for example.
The main differences between the two certificates are explained below.
Certificate A1-A3
- This is the basic certificate
- Mandatory for drones from 250 grams to 25 kilos
- Up to 500 grams, you can fly freely where permitted
- From 2 kilos, keep a minimum distance of 150 metres from buildings
Certificate A2
- This is the supplementary certificate
- Optional for drones from 500 grams to 2 kilos
- Keep 50 metres distance from uninvolved persons
- It is allowed to fly above buildings
- If you want to progress to the specific category, you need both certificates. So you always start learning in the open category!
Are drones allowed in the EU?
Drones are allowed in the EU, under the condition that the drone flight is conducted according to the laws and regulations of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945 and Commission and Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947. You must adhere to the drone rules in Italy when drone flying.
What drone laws apply to drones in the EU?
Listed below are the main general drone laws and regulations in the EU.
Required documents for flying a drone in the EU:
- The drone pilot is in possession of a registration number
- The drone pilot holds a certificate of completion of the theoretical exam (EU Drone Licence)
Maximum distance and height for flying a drone in the EU:
- In the open category, drones may be flown up to a maximum height of 120 metres
- The drone must be flown in direct sight of the pilot, the distance between the pilot and the drone must not exceed 500 metres
- Avoid flying near airports
- It is not allowed to fly a drone at night
- A drone should not be flown over military areas