Drone Regulations in Europe
The EASA framework, mandatory certifications for professional remote pilots, and the specifics of each European country.
Updated : May 2026
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The European Regulatory Framework (EASA)
Since 1 January 2021, drone regulation has been harmonised across the European Union by EASA. Three categories of operations define the requirements.
Low-risk operations
Drones < 25 kg, line of sight (VLOS), away from populated areas. No prior authorisation required.
- Subcategories A1, A2, A3
- UAS operator registration mandatory
- Online training mandatory
Higher-risk operations
Populated areas, near aerodromes, night flights. DGAC authorisation or standard scenario required.
- Standard Scenarios STS-01 and STS-02
- SORA risk assessment
- Remote pilot competency certificate mandatory
High-risk operations
Carrying persons, critical systems. Full aircraft and remote pilot certification required.
- Aircraft certification
- UAS pilot licence
- Operator approval
Geo-zones: know where to fly your drone
Understand EASA geo-zones: no-fly areas, authorisation zones and conditional areas, plus the official drone map.
Drones and privacy
What the law protects, what a professional pilot must do, and what to ask when a drone flies over your street.
State aviation
Police, rescue, customs: why these flights fall outside the EASA framework, and what it means for your fleet.
Can I fly my drone here?
Check whether a drone may fly at an address in France: restricted zones and maximum height. European rules by country.
Certifications and Obligations
For professional operations (Specific category), these are the essential certifications.
| Certification | Scope | Applies to | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| UAS Operator number | Any drone > 250 g for professional use | The operator (company or freelance) | Mandatory |
| A1/A3 certificate | Open Category subcategories A1 and A3 | Each remote pilot | Mandatory |
| A2-CofC certificate | Open Category subcategory A2 | Each remote pilot | Mandatory |
| CATS | Specific Category — STS-01 & STS-02 (France, since Jan. 2026) | Each STS remote pilot | Mandatory |
| STS-01 / STS-02 | Specific Category (populated areas, night) | Remote pilot + operator declaration | Mandatory |
| Professional liability insurance | All commercial operations | The operator | Mandatory |
Regulations by Country
Despite EASA harmonisation, each country retains national specificities (zones, portals, additional certifications). Select a country for details.
National portals
Each country has its own registration desk. Here is what it is called and what you have to do there.
Have a drone project in mind?
Find a certified operator who knows the regulations and handles authorisations for you.