The use of drones has grown significantly in Spain, both for recreational andprofessionalpurposes. In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about thetypes of licenses, the requirements and the necessary procedures** to obtain your drone license in Spain.
Why is a drone license necessary in Spain?
The State Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulate the use of drones to guarantee the safety of the population and the privacy of people. A license is required for most drone operations, whether for recreational or professional flights. The license allows a drone to operate within the legal framework and guarantees that the pilot has the necessary training.
Types of drone licenses in Spain
In Spain, drone licenses are organized into categories according to therisk involved in each type of operation:
Open Category
For low-risk flights that can be carried out without prior authorization, but with specific restrictions:
- Subcategory A1: For drones up to 250 grams, allowing flights over uninvolved people (but not over crowds).
- Subcategory A2: For drones up to 2 kg that fly close to people (minimum distance of 30 meters).
- Subcategory A3: For drones up to 25 kg, flying away from people and inhabited areas.
Specific Category
For higher-risk operations, where it is necessary to perform a security analysis and receive authorization from AESA.
Certified Category
Required for high-risk flights, such as those involving the transport of people or dangerous cargo. This category requires drone certification and additional licenses.
Who needs a drone license?
Not all drone pilots need a license. Here are the cases in which it is mandatory:
- For professional use: All pilots using drones for commercial, scientific or high-risk areas must be licensed.
- For drones over 250 grams: Even on recreational flights, if the drone exceeds this weight or is flown in public areas, a license is required.
- In restricted areas: Operating in sensitive areas or near crowds of people requires a specific license.
Requirements to obtain a drone license in Spain
To obtain a drone license, it is necessary to meet several basic and specific requirements depending on the category:
Minimum Age
Most categories require a minimum age of 16.
Theoretical training
- For categories A1 and A3: It is necessary to take an online course that covers basic safety regulations and pass a knowledge exam.
- For subcategory A2: This level requires additional training at an authorized center, with advanced content in safety and flight planning.
Flight practice
Although it is not mandatory for all categories, it is advisable to do an internship in simulators or with certified instructors to familiarize yourself with operating the drone in different conditions.
Medical certificate
For most open categories, it's not necessary. However, pilots in the specific or certified category may require a medical certificate, as these flights pose a greater risk.
Procedures to obtain the license
The process to obtain a drone license in Spain involves several administrative and training steps:
Registration with EASA
It is mandatory to register as a drone operator on the AESA platform to obtain an operator number. This record allows the identification of the pilot and the drone in case of incidents.
Theoretical exams
- Online course: The exams for the open category (A1 and A3) are carried out through the AESA platform.
- Authorized Center Examination: Exams in subcategory A2 and specific and certified categories must be taken in approved training centers.
Required Documentation
- ID or passport.
- Training Certificates obtained after the courses.
- Proof of residence in Spain if you don't have a national ID.
Payment of Fees
Depending on the category, there may be registration and exam fees. The payment is made on the corresponding platform and the cost varies depending on the license level.
Additional regulations for flying a drone in Spain
In addition to obtaining the license, it is important for drone pilots to be aware of the additional regulations that regulate the use of drones in Spain:
Allowed Flight Zones
There are applications such as ENAIRE Drones that allow you to consult restricted areas in real time, such as areas near airports, national parks or public events.
Maximum flight height
In most cases, the maximum height allowed is 120 meters. This prevents interference with other air vehicles and improves safety.
Privacy and Data Protection
It's important to respect people's privacy when shooting images or videos with drones. Regulations prohibit unauthorized recording in private areas.
Liability insurance
For commercial flights, the regulations require taking out civil liability insurance. Although not required for recreational flights, it is highly recommended.
License Renewal and Update
Licenses are valid for a certain time, and pilots must renew them depending on the type of operation:
- Updates: EASA can update its regulations, and it's essential that pilots stay informed.
- Renewal: Some certificates and licenses must be renewed from time to time to ensure that pilots continue to meet safety requirements.
Operating a drone in Spain requires compliance with certain requirements and licenses, especially for commercial uses and in restricted areas. Having the right license not only allows you to fly legally, but it also guarantees that you have the necessary knowledge to fly safely and environmentally friendly.
With this complete guide, you now have all the information about the types of licenses, requirements and steps to obtain the necessary authorization and start flying your drone safely and responsibly in Spain.
