Can you fly a drone without registering?
No — but it is not the drone that gets registered, it is you. This is a common misunderstanding. If the drone does not fall into the certified category, the drone itself need not be registered — but you must register as a UAS operator, meaning the person who has one or more drones. Registration is done on the Civil Aviation Agency portal, costs €5 and is valid for one year, so it has to be renewed annually. You then receive an operator number, which must be used to mark every drone in your possession. And the flight limits are strict: a maximum height of 120 metres, and no flying near airports, in military zones or over gatherings of people.
📋 The rules
- You must register as a UAS operator
- Registration on the CAA portal: €5 a year
- The number must mark every drone
- Maximum height: 120 metres
- Banned near airports and crowds
🔓 Exceptions
- Drones in the certified category follow their own registration procedure
- The specific category requires an approved SORA risk assessment and authorisation
- In cases of unlawful operation the drone itself may also be confiscated
⚠️ Penalties & fines
The fines vary, and they can be heavy. Failing to register with the CAA, or flying without the required tests, can cost up to €500. Flying in prohibited or restricted airspace — near airports, in military zones, over crowds — up to €1,500. Privacy breaches, such as filming people without their consent, up to €1,000. Breaching safety requirements, including exceeding the 120-metre ceiling, up to €2,000. Flying in the specific category without an approved SORA — up to €3,000. And where the operation is unlawful, the drone may also be confiscated. Oversight lies with the Civil Aviation Agency.
📎 Official sources
❓ Frequently asked
Does the drone have to be registered?
If the drone does not fall into the certified category, the drone itself need not be registered. You, however, must register as a UAS operator on the Civil Aviation Agency portal, which is a separate duty.
How much does registration cost?
Five euros, and the registration is valid for one year, so it must be renewed annually. You then receive an operator number, which must be used to mark every drone in your possession.
How high can I fly?
In the open category the maximum flight height is 120 metres. Breaching safety requirements, including the height ceiling, can cost up to 2,000 euros, one of the heaviest fines in this area.
Where is flying banned?
In prohibited or restricted airspace — near airports, in military zones and over gatherings of people. The fine can reach 1,500 euros, and the drone may also be confiscated.
Can I film people?
Not without their consent. Privacy breaches, including filming or photographing people without permission, can cost up to 1,000 euros, and the people filmed may also take action against you.
🔎 Common searches
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