Fines and risks of flying a drone without a certificate

Who enforces, and on what basis?

In the Netherlands, the ILT and the police monitor the drone rules. The fine amounts come from the Public Prosecution Service's Guideline for the prosecution of aviation legislation and regulations, which has been in force since 1 March 2023. This guideline sets out the amounts the Public Prosecution Service uses as a starting point. Enforcement has also become easier: since drones with a C-label are required to broadcast their position via Remote ID, an enforcer can establish an offence more easily.

The fine amounts for drone offences

These are the reference amounts from the Public Prosecution Service guideline. They serve as a starting point and may be higher in a serious situation.

 In the case of serious offences such as hindering emergency services, the enforcer can seize your drone and give you a summons, after which you must appear in court. The fine for not having a flight certificate is one of the most common during inspections.

Why the fines add up so fast

Enforcers fine each offence separately, and these often occur together. For example: you fly a drone without an A1/A3 certificate (250 euros), you haven't registered as an operator (100 euros), and you fly too close to a residential area in subcategory A3 (350 euros). You quickly end up paying 700 euros in fines.

When do you need an EU Drone Certificate?

For every drone from 250 grams, you need at least the basic A1/A3 certificate. If you fly a heavier drone, you also need the additional A2 certificate on top of the basic certificate.

If you fly without the knowledge the drone course gives you, you also run these risks:

•      Liability in case of damage. If your drone hits a person, a car or a building, you are liable for the damage. Without knowledge of the rules you have a weak legal position, and third-party liability insurance often requires that you flew legally.

•      Seizure of your drone. Enforcers may seize your device on the spot.

•      Danger to aviation. Flying near an airport or in the approach route endangers manned aviation. This is treated very seriously and can lead to prosecution.

•      Privacy complaints. If you film recognisable people or gardens, you may be in violation of privacy legislation, separate from the aviation rules.

How to avoid a fine for flying a drone illegally

You avoid everything above with two simple steps. Get your flight certificate and register as an operator, and check the map before every flight. Together these cost you less than the lowest fine in the table.

•      Get the EU Drone Certificate. Online, obtainable within a day. You learn exactly the rules that prevent fines.

•      Register as an operator and stick your operator number on every drone.

•      Check the map before every flight via GoDrone. Zones change constantly, so do this on the day of the flight itself.

Frequently asked questions

What is the fine for flying a drone without a certificate?

The Public Prosecution Service's guideline sets 250 euros as the starting point for flying without the required A1/A3 flight certificate, rising to 350 euros for flying without an A2 certificate.

How high is the fine for not registering your drone?

A reference fine of 100 euros applies for not registering as an operator. However, the ILT can impose a considerably higher fine for failing to comply with the registration obligation.

Can drone fines add up?

Yes, and that's the biggest risk. Each offence is fined separately. If you fly without a certificate, without registration and in a prohibited place, those amounts add up and you quickly reach hundreds to thousands of euros.

Can my drone be seized?

Yes. Enforcers may seize your drone on the spot, especially in the case of serious offences such as flying near an airport or hindering emergency services. In those cases you may also receive a summons and have to appear in court.

What does it cost to arrange everything legally?

The EU Drone Certificate A1/A3 costs 99 euros including the exam, plus a one-time issuance fee and registration. If you have a larger drone, you also need the additional A2 certificate on top of the basic certificate. The combined course costs 189 euros. That keeps you well below the amount of even a single fine, and you fly legally throughout Europe for five years.

Am I hindering emergency services if I fly to a fire or accident?

Yes, and that's one of the most serious offences. If you fly your drone to an incident where police, the fire brigade or a trauma helicopter is working, the fine can rise to 500 euros or more, with seizure and a summons. Always land immediately if you see or hear emergency services.

Fly legally for less than a fine

An afternoon of flying without a certificate can cost you hundreds of euros. So take to the sky prepared. You'll easily obtain the EU Drone Certificate, usually within a day online. You learn exactly the rules that prevent these fines. Drone Class is recognised by the RDW and EASA, 75,000+ pilots have gone before you with a 4.9 out of 3,300+ reviews and 95% pass on the first attempt. Exam retakes are free.