RULES BY COUNTRY
Drone rules in France
The open-category framework is European, but each Member State keeps control over decisive points — and that is where the nasty surprises hide. Here is what actually applies in France, verified against national official sources.
At a glance
Operator registration
- Registration applies to the operator, not to the aircraft: it is mandatory from 250 g, or at any weight if the drone carries a camera or a sensor capable of capturing personal data. Only a toy without a sensor is exempt.
- Competent authority: Direction générale de l'aviation civile (DGAC).
- The procedure is free.
- The operator registration number you receive must be displayed on each of your drones.
Remote pilot training
- The A1/A3 proof of completion is obtained through online training and an online exam. The procedure is free.
- The A2 certificate requires the A1/A3 proof, self-declared practical self-training, then an additional theoretical exam, taken either online under remote invigilation or at an exam centre. Cost: €30.
- These credentials are valid for 5 years and recognised throughout the European Union.
Night flying
Night flying is prohibited in the open category, even with lighting fitted. A prefectural derogation may be granted, and must be requested at least 30 days before the flight.
Insurance
Third-party liability insurance is not mandatory for recreational use. Do check the terms of your existing policy though: not all of them cover damage caused by a drone.
Minimum age
- Minimum remote pilot age: 14.
Remote identification
On top of class-based remote identification, a national electronic signalling requirement applies to aircraft above 800 g.
Geographical zones
The general 120 m ceiling can be lowered, and some zones are prohibited or conditional: airports, military sites, protected natural areas, sensitive locations. These restrictions change — check the official tool before every flight.
Géoportail — restrictions UAS catégorie ouverte et aéromodélismePenalties
The most common breach, failure to register, carries a fine of up to €750. Other offences (flying in a prohibited zone, endangerment) fall under separate and sometimes heavier penalties.
What is specific to France
- In France, recreational flying is prohibited above public space within built-up areas, whatever the size of the town. It remains possible on private property with the occupier's consent, or at a site authorised by prefectural decision. Special case: in Paris, all outdoor flights are prohibited, even on private property.
- The minimum age of 14 has exceptions: class C0 drones considered to be toys, privately built drones under 250 g, and flying under the direct supervision of a remote pilot aged at least 16.
- A2 credentials obtained by sworn declaration, under the transitional arrangement for recognising prior qualifications, have not been valid since 1 January 2026. You must now have passed the exam.
- Beyond petty fines, flying over a prohibited zone is a criminal offence: a €15,000 fine for carelessness or negligence, and up to €45,000 if the overflight is deliberate — with possible confiscation of the aircraft.
Frequently asked questions
Can you fly a drone at night in France?+
Night flying is prohibited in the open category, even with lighting fitted. A prefectural derogation may be granted, and must be requested at least 30 days before the flight.
Do you have to register your drone in France?+
Registration applies to the operator, not to the aircraft: it is mandatory from 250 g, or at any weight if the drone carries a camera or a sensor capable of capturing personal data. Only a toy without a sensor is exempt. Competent authority: Direction générale de l'aviation civile (DGAC). The procedure is free.
Is insurance mandatory in France?+
Third-party liability insurance is not mandatory for recreational use. Do check the terms of your existing policy though: not all of them cover damage caused by a drone.
How old do you have to be to fly a drone in France?+
Minimum remote pilot age: 14.
Does my drone need electronic signalling in France?+
On top of class-based remote identification, a national electronic signalling requirement applies to aircraft above 800 g.
See also
Taking your drone abroad in Europe: your operator registration and your training stay valid everywhere. Geographical zones, night flying, insurance and minimum age do not.
Official sources
- Exploitation de drones en catégorie ouverte — DGAC
- Utilisation d'un drone de loisir — Service-Public
- Arrêté du 3 décembre 2020 (espace aérien, aéronefs sans équipage) — Légifrance
- Décret n° 2023-336 du 3 mai 2023 (sanctions) — Légifrance
Information provided for guidance, based on the official sources listed. It does not replace checking geographical zones and temporary restrictions before every flight.
And for your drone specifically?
This page covers the national framework. To find out YOUR exact obligations in France, run the calculator.
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