Flying drones has exploded in popularity, from hobbyists capturing stunning aerial filmmaking shots to professionals using them for mapping and inspections. However, with great power comes great responsibility—and legal requirements. In most countries, you’ll need a licence to fly a drone legally, especially for anything beyond basic recreational use. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about obtaining a drone flying licence, focusing primarily on regulations in the UK and EU under EASA rules, with notes on variations elsewhere like the US FAA. Whether you’re eyeing a DJI Mini 4 Pro for casual flights or a racing drone for FPV thrills, understanding licensing is your first step.
Why You Need a Drone Licence
Drones, or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are classified as aircraft by aviation authorities. Without a licence, you risk hefty fines, drone confiscation, or even criminal charges. Licences ensure pilots understand airspace rules, safety protocols, and privacy laws.
Regulations stem from incidents like drones interfering with airports or manned aircraft. For instance, the CAA in the UK mandates operator IDs and pilot competencies to prevent such risks. In the EU, EASA categorizes operations into Open, Specific, and Certified categories based on risk.
Key reasons for licensing:
- Safety: Drones with GPS and stabilization systems can still malfunction; pilots must know emergency procedures.
- Compliance: Commercial ops, like using a gimbal camera for real estate, always require certification.
- Insurance: Many insurers demand proof of licensing for coverage.
Even micro drones under 250g, like the DJI Mini 2, often need registration if fitted with cameras.
Drone Categories and Licence Requirements
Before applying, classify your drone and intended use. EASA’s system simplifies this:
Open Category (Low Risk)
Ideal for recreational flying with quadcopters up to 25kg. Subdivided by weight and features:
- A1: Drones <250g (e.g., DJI Avata) over people (not assemblies).
- A2: <4kg near people, requires A2 CofC.
- A3: Far from people.
All need a Flyer ID (free online theory test). No practical exam.
Specific Category (Medium Risk)
For advanced ops like FPV racing or beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). Requires operations manual and GVC or equivalent.
Certified Category (High Risk)
Payload drops or passenger transport—rare for consumers, needs full aeroplane-like certification.
In the US, FAA Part 107 is mandatory for commercial use with any drone over 0.55lbs. Recreational flyers need THE DRONECARD (trust test).
Quick Checklist:
- Drone weight >250g? Register it.
- Fly commercial? Get full cert.
- Use thermal cameras for inspections? Specific category.
Types of Drone Licences
Several certifications exist, tailored to your needs.
Flyer ID (Operator ID Pair)
- Cost: Free.
- Validity: 5 years.
- How: 40-question online exam on rules, weather, airspace. 75% pass.
- For: All Open category pilots.
Pair with an Operator ID (£10/year) for drones >250g.
A2 Certificate of Competency (A2 CofC)
- For: A2 subcategory flights.
- Requirements: Flyer ID first, then self-declared practical training + 30-question exam.
- Cost: ~£100 (training).
- Validity: Lifetime.
- Perfect for urban flying with obstacle avoidance equipped drones like the DJI Air 3.
General Visual Line of Sight Certificate (GVC)
- For: Commercial/Specific ops.
- Process: 2-day course with theory (multi-choice) and practical flight test.
- Cost: £500–£1000.
- Providers: Heliguy, Coptrnix.
- Includes navigation skills, emergency handling.
In Australia, CASA RePL mirrors this. Renew every 2 years with refresher.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Licensed
Step 1: Register as an Operator
- Visit CAA Drone website.
- Pay £10.32/year for ID sticker on drone.
- Takes 10 minutes online.
Step 2: Obtain Flyer ID
- Free CAA app or site.
- Study guide: Airspace, height limits (120m), no-fly zones (airports, prisons).
- Exam: 40 questions, retake free after 14 days.
Step 3: Choose Advanced Training
For A2 CofC:
- Enroll with registered training org (RTO).
- Theory + practical (hover, figure-8).
- Declare competence online.
For GVC:
- Book course: Classroom theory, practical on-site with sensors like optical zoom for observation.
Step 4: Equip Your Drone
Ensure compliance:
- CE marking Class C0–C4.
- Lights for night flights.
- Apps like DJI Fly for no-fly compliance.
Step 5: Pass and Certify
Upload results to CAA. Digital cert issued instantly.
Timeline: Flyer ID same day; A2/GVC 1–2 weeks.
Preparing for Exams and Training
Success hinges on preparation. Download free CAA manuals covering:
- Meteorology basics.
- Drone anatomy: Props, batteries, controllers.
- Risk assessment.
Study Tips:
- Use apps like Drone Exam Prep.
- Practice with simulators (VelociDrone).
- Watch cinematic shots tutorials to understand flight paths.
- Join forums for real-world advice.
Common pitfalls: Misunderstanding “visual line of sight” (500m max) or AI follow mode limitations.
For practicals, master:
- Takeoff/landing in wind.
- Precision maneuvers.
- Remote sensing basics.
Maintaining Your Licence and Flying Safely
Renewals:
- Flyer ID: Retest every 5 years.
- GVC: 2-year refresher + practical.
Ongoing Rules:
- Always check NOTAMs.
- Respect privacy—no filming people without consent.
- Use cases and propellers for transport.
Insurance: £1m+ public liability recommended.
Advanced Tips:
- Explore autonomous flight after certification.
- For racing, get club membership.
- Upgrade to 4K cameras for pro work.
With your licence, unlock creative flight paths and tech like GoPro Hero mounts. Stay updated via CAA bulletins—regs evolve with innovations.
In summary, getting a drone licence is straightforward: register, test, train, fly responsibly. It’s your ticket to safe, legal skies. Safe flying!
