You want to buy a drone and just start flying, without having to study the theory or take an exam first. That makes sense. But what are you actually allowed to do, and what aren’t you?
The good news: in certain cases, you can definitely fly without a pilot’s license. The only thing that matters is that you choose the right drone and follow the basic rules.
| TL;DR:
You can fly a drone weighing less than 250 grams without a pilot’s license. If your drone has a Camera, you must register it and always follow the basic rules. |
Belgium follows the European regulations established by the EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency). These regulations are largely the same across all EU countries and ensure a uniform approach to drone use.
Under this legislation, drone flights are divided into three categories:
For most individuals and hobbyists, only the open category is relevant. Within this category, the primary consideration is the risk associated with the flight, and that risk is largely determined by the drone’s weight and the environment in which you are flying.
With a drone weighing weighing less than 250 grams, you can fly in Belgium without a pilot’s license. However, you must follow the applicable rules (within the A1 category): for example, you may not fly over crowds, you must always keep your drone in sight, and you must respect the privacy of others.
Please note: if your drone has a Camera , you are also required to register as a drone operator and provide your registration number on the drone.
There are several popular drones that weigh less than 250 grams and can therefore be flown without a pilot’s license.
Below are the most popular options.
Are you looking for a drone that’s compact, captures great footage, and just works well? Then you can almost always go wrong with the DJI Mini series.
This collection is designed for those who sharp aerial photos using a compact, lightweight drone that’s easy to take with you on a trip, a hike, or a day trip.
What to Expect from the DJI Mini Series:
Popular DJI Mini drones weighing less than 250 grams and therefore not requiring a pilot’s license:
Are you looking for something even simpler and more compact? Then the DJI Neo series is worth checking out. These drones are extremely compact and designed to keep things as simple as possible. No complicated settings or setup required.
The DJI Neo is one of the most accessible drones you can find today. Everything about it is designed for ease of use and speed.
You don’t need a Controller to get started. Just turn it on, take off, and you’re good to go. Perfect for short videos, vlogs, or quick shots without any preparation.
The DJI Neo 2 builds on that simple concept but gives you just a little more control and options.
This drone remains easy to use, but feels just a little more feature-rich. It’s handy if you want to experiment a bit more with shots without things getting too complicated.
Do you want images that immediately catch the eye? Then the DJI Flip series is a smart choice. These drones are designed for creative shots without you having to figure everything out or adjust the settings yourself.
The DJI Flip helps you create dynamic footage .
The built-in features take a lot of the work off your hands. Think of smooth transitions, automatic shots, and creative camera angles that would otherwise be difficult to achieve on your own.
As soon as your drone weighs more than 250 grams, the rules change. In that case, you must complete a basic training course and pass an online theory exam, known as the A1/A3 certificate.
This certificate covers, among other things:
The supplementary A2 pilot’s license is required if you want to fly a heavier drone (usually between 500 g and 2 kg) closer to people or buildings.
With only an A1/A3 certificate, you must maintain a distance of at least 150 meters from residential, industrial, or recreational areas (category A3). With an A2 certificate, you may reduce that distance (to approximately 30–50 meters), making it easier, for example, to fly in built-up areas.
See also: How to Get Your A1/A3 Drone Pilot’s License Quickly and Inexpensively).
Not having a pilot’s license does not mean you are free to fly anywhere without restrictions. There are a number of basic rules that always apply:
These rules are essential, and violations may result in fines or other penalties.
In addition to general rules, there are also geographical restrictions. In Belgium, there are several zones where drone use is prohibited or severely restricted (no-fly zones), such as around airports, military installations, and certain nature reserves.
To know where you can and cannot fly, it’s highly recommended to use specialized apps or maps that visualize airspace. This way, you can avoid unintentionally flying into a restricted zone. In Belgium, Droneguide is the standard tool for this. Want to check no-fly zones for other countries? Then be sure to read our article on“traveling with your drone,” where you’ll find an overview of the most important rules and flight zones for each country.
European regulations make a distinction based on risk. Light drones pose less of a danger in the event of an accident. That is why you are allowed to fly drones weighing less than 250 grams without a pilot’s license.
You don’t need a pilot’s license, but you do need a registration as a drone pilot. As soon as your drone has a Camera, you are required to register and display your registration number visibly on the drone.
Yes, that’s allowed. In the OPEN category, night flights are permitted without a pilot’s license. However, your drone must be equipped with a green flashing lightso that it is clearly visible, and you must always be able to keep it within visual line of sight (VLOS).
Are you still unsure about which drone to choose or what is and isn’t allowed in your situation? You don’t have to figure it out on your own. Get in touch—we’d be happy to help you with clear advice.
Want to find out right away which drone is right for you? Then check out our selection of drones, parts and accessories and choose the model that fits your plans.
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