There European EASA regulation has completely revolutionized the world of drones by introducing a system of standardized certifications valid in all member countries of the European Union. From December 31, 2020 , it became mandatory for all drone pilots, both hobbyists and professionals, to obtain specific certificates of competence to legally operate drones weighing more than 250 grams.

Understanding the differences between the various certifications is not just a matter of regulatory compliance, but is the key to fully exploiting the potential of your drone while respecting the safety of people and property.

The European Regulatory Framework: Three Main Categories

The Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947 establishes three macro-operational categories for drones:

OPEN Category

The category Open represents the reference for operations Low risk , allowing all certified pilots to fly drones up to 25 kg without special authorization. This is the most popular category among hobbyists and professionals for standard operations.

Category SPECIFIC (Specification)

Intended for operations medium risk which require specific authorisations from ENAC, with customised risk assessments or standard scenarios (STS).

CERTIFIED Category

Reserved for operations high risk with large drones in complex airspaces, requiring certifications similar to those for general aviation.

Subcategories of the Open Category: A1, A2, A3

The Open category is divided into three subcategories which depend mainly on the position of the drone in relation to people during the flight:

Subcategory A1: Above People

The subcategory A1 allows the flying over people (but never above crowds) and is considered very low risk. It includes:

Drones allowed:

• Class C0 : drones under 250 grams
• Class C1 : drones from 250g to 900g with CE marking
• Legacy drones : up to 500g (only until January 1, 2024)

Permitted operations:

• Direct flight over single people (excluding the pilot)
• Flight over buildings and infrastructure
• Never above gatherings or crowds of people

Required certifications:

• A1/A3 Certificate for drones weighing 250g and up
• Recommended but not mandatory for C0 drones

Subcategory A2: Close to People

The subcategory A2 allows operations close to people with greater responsibilities for the pilot:

Drones allowed:

• Class C2 : drones from 900g to 4kg with CE marking
• Possibility of flight even above buildings

Safety distances:

• Standard minimum distance : 30 meters from people

• Low Speed ​​Mode : reduction to 5 meters (speed <11 km/h)
• Rule 1:1 : vertical height = minimum horizontal distance

Required certifications:

• A1/A3 Certificate (mandatory prerequisite)
• Additional A2 certificate with theoretical exam and practical self-training

Subcategory A3: Away from People

The subcategory A3 requires the maximum distancing from people and inhabited areas:

Drones allowed:

• Class C3/C4 : drones up to 25kg
• Legacy drones : all those above 250g (after January 1, 2024)
• Class C2 : can also be used in A3 as an alternative to A2

Operating restrictions:

• Minimum distance : 150 meters from residential, commercial, industrial and recreational areas
• Prohibited : Flight over persons not involved in the operation
• Operational area : preferably rural or open areas

Required certifications:

• A1/A3 certificate only

CE Marking Classes: From C0 to C4

The system of CE marking introduces six specific classes (C0-C4 for the Open category) that define the technical and operational characteristics of drones:

Class C0: Mini Drones (< 250g)

Technical features:

• Maximum weight : 249 grams
• Limited speed : generally below 19 m/s
• Security systems : optional geofencing
• Low noise : reduced noise emissions

Operational advantages:

• No mandatory license (but recommended)
• Optional registration (required only with video camera)
• Maximum flexibility operational on A1

Examples: DJI Mini series, advanced toy drones

Class C1: The Compact Versatile (250-900g)

Mandatory technical requirements:

• Weight : 250-900 grams
• Maximum speed : 19 m/s (68 km/h)
• Remote identification : mandatory integrated system
• Geofencing : preventing flights in no-fly zones
• Return-to-Home : automatic return function

Required certifications:

• A1/A3 Certificate obligatory
• D-Flight Registration mandatory
• Third Party Liability Insurance mandatory

Examples: DJI Air 3S, Air 2S, Mavic 3 Classic

Class C2: Semi-Professionals (900g-4kg)

Advanced Features:

• Low Speed ​​Mode : to reduce safety distances
• Enhanced safety systems : anti-collision sensors
• Advanced Remote Identification
• Programmable geofencing

Dual operation:

• Subcategory A2 : 30m from people (5m in Low Speed)
• Subcategory A3 : as an alternative with greater restrictions

Required certifications:

• A1/A3 + A2 Certificate to operate in A2
• Only A1/A3 if used in A3

Class C3 and C4: Professionals (4-25kg)

Distinguishing features:

• C3 : Commercial drones with advanced systems
• C4 : often home-built or modified drones
• High load capacity : for professional photography, surveying, transport

Operational limitations:

• Subcategory A3 only
• Mandatory remote areas : far from inhabited centers
• Special permits : often required for professional uses

Procedure for Obtaining Certificates

When Do You Need a License to Fly a Drone?

In Italy, to fly a drone safely and in compliance with European regulations, you need a certificate recognized by EASA, as clearly indicated in the courses and training guides offered by our official partners, such as 3Digital.tech and Dronext.eu. The license, or certificate, is essential for operators who operate drones with certain technical characteristics and in specific operating conditions.

If the drone weighs less than 250 grams If the drone is not equipped with a video camera, a license is generally not required, with some exceptions. However, if the drone weighs more than 250 grams or is equipped with a video camera (even if it is under 250 grams), current European regulations require the pilot to be equipped with:

• A1-A3 certificate to operate in the Open category in the subcategories A1 (flight over isolated people, but not over crowds) and A3 (flight away from people and populated areas).
• A2 certificate to operate heavier drones or fly close to people (subcategory A2), which requires more in-depth training and passing a theoretical exam.

These certificates are obtainable online Through certified platforms, such as those we offer in partnership. The online training is comprehensive, updated with the latest EASA regulations, and includes detailed manuals, assessment quizzes, and exam simulations, ensuring effective learning without the need for in-person sessions.

The A1-A3 Certificate requires:

• Minimum age of 16 years
• Passing a theory test with at least 75% correct answers
• Total duration of the exam is approximately one hour
• Valid for five years, with the possibility of online renewal before expiration

The A2 Certificate provides:

• Already have a valid A1-A3 certificate
• Complete a more in-depth theoretical training course, specific to operations in close proximity to people
• Pass the exam online, often with the support of professional teaching materials
• Complete at least 5 hours of flight time in self-training mode and self-certify this experience
• This certificate is also valid for five years.

Both certificates are essential for legal operation, especially considering the penalties for flying without the required certification, which can be severe.

The online courses offered by our partners offer a clear, simple, and up-to-date curriculum, supported by comprehensive teaching materials and the opportunity to answer questions and concerns along the way.

Finally, remember that in addition to the certificate, the following is mandatory: Pilot and drone registration on the national platform D-Flight and liability insurance for third party liability, essential elements to be fully compliant