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Drone Laws in Italy

Summary of Drone Laws in Italy

Hobbyist Drone Laws For Residents of Italy

Drone Operations in Italy are currently regulated.

  • Hobbyist drone flights are allowed in Italy
  • Hobbyist Italy drone pilot license is required
  • Hobbyist Drone registration is required in Italy for hobbyists flying over 250g or drone with a camera
  • Drone Remote ID is generally required in Italy (except in some classes C0, C4 with no RID)
  • Drone Insurance is required for hobbyists’ drone operations in Italy

Read below for more details on Hobbyist Drone Laws in Italy and to find links to regulators and other credible sources!

Commercial Drone Laws For Residents of Italy

Drone Operations in Italy are currently regulated.

  • Commercial drone flights are allowed in Italy
  • Commercial Italy drone pilot license is required
  • Commercial Drone registration is required in Italy for commercial drone operators
  • Drone Remote ID is generally required in Italy (except in some classes C0, C4 with no RID)
  • Drone Insurance is required for commercial drone operations in Italy

Read below for more details on Commercial Drone Laws in Italy and to find links to regulators and other credible sources!

Drone Laws For Visitors To Italy

Drone Operations in Italy are currently regulated.

  • Foreign visitor drone flights are allowed in Italy
  • Foreign visitor drone pilot license is required
  • Drone registration is required in Italy for visitors/tourists (unless previously registered in EASA)
  • Drone Remote ID is generally required in Italy (except in some classes C0, C4 with no RID)
  • Drone Insurance is required for tourist drone operations in Italy

Read below for more details on Drone Laws in Italy for Visitors (Tourists) and to find links to regulators and other credible sources!

Drone Laws For Government Drone Operators in Italy

Drone Operations in Italy are currently regulated.

  • Government drone flights are allowed in Italy
  • Government drone pilot license is required
  • Drone registration is required in Italy for Government operations
  • Drone Remote ID is generally required in Italy (except in some classes C0, C4 with no RID)
  • Drone Insurance is not required for Government drone operations in Italy

Read below for more details on Drone Laws in Italy for Government Drone Operations and to find links to regulators and other credible sources!

Agencies Responsible for regulating drones in the Italian Republic (Italy)

Drone Regulator in Italy: Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC)

EU Nations Drone Regulator and Regulations: European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)

For a full explanation of EASA regulations simplified, please read our explainer: The rules for drone flyers in the European Union (Europe Drone Laws Simplified)

UAS Laws – General rules for flying drones in Italy

The Italian agency responsible for drone safety, ENAC, has provided several internet-accessible details on flying for fun or work. The highlights of Italy Drone Rules are outlined below. For more details, go to the link above.

Flying and operating drones in Italy is subject to European Union Regulation 2019/947. The Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) supervises and implements Drone Rules Italy.

According to the level of risk involved, this new legal framework will introduce three categories of drone operations: Open, Specific, and Certified.

Are drones allowed in Italy?

According to ENAC, drones are allowed in Italy, subject to ENAC and EASA regulations. Read on for details.

Categories of Allowed Drone Flights in Italy:

Drone flights in Italy are allowed in three categories defined by the level of risk associated with drone flights or operations. Whether you are a resident of Italy or a visitor, you must operate within the limitations and follow the rules and procedures of the category in which your drone operation qualifies:

Open Category

Given the low level of risk, neither prior authorization by the competent authority nor a declaration by the drone operator is required. The drone’s total takeoff mass must be less than 25kg, and it must be operated within a visual line of sight at a maximum altitude of 120m.

Specific Category

Considering the moderate level of risk involved, flights in this category require authorization before the operation. The permission is given considering the mitigation measures identified in an operational risk assessment, except in specific standard scenarios where an operator declaration is sufficient.

Certified Category

Given the inherent dangers, certification of the drone and a licensed remote pilot are required. If your drone can carry people, you fall under the Certified category!

The most common rules to know for flying a drone in Italy:

The ‘open’ category is the main reference for most leisure drone and low-risk commercial activities in European countries.

Subcategories of Open Category Drones

The ‘open’ category is, in turn, subdivided into three sub-categories – A1, A2, A3 — which may be summarised as follows:

  • A1: fly over people but not over assemblies of people
  • A2: fly close to people
  • A3: fly far from people

Each subcategory comes with its own set of requirements. Therefore, in the ‘open’ category, it is important to identify the subcategory of operation your activities will fall under to determine which rules apply to you and the training the remote pilot needs to undertake.

If you comply with the relevant requirements of the subcategories (A1, A2, and A3), no operational authorization is required before starting a flight.

Conditions required to avoid authorization

The following conditions must be met:

  • The drone operator has to be registered.

EU residents: Please register in the EU member state of your main residence (or principal place of business), and contact the Aviation Authority in your member state for further details.

Non-EU residents: Please register in the EU member state where you intend to operate your drone first. If the first drone operation will take place in Italy, please register as an operator here.

  • All operated drones need sufficient insurance coverage.

Each country might have a different limit. For example, in Italy, you must ensure the coverage is at least 1m EUR, and your insurance is valid in Italy.

  • The drone pilot needs proof of competency.

Depending on the subcategory of your drone operation (see table below), you need a certificate for A1/A3 and additionally A2.

  • The drone must always be in a visual line of sight (VLOS).
  • The drone is flown at no more than 120 meters above ground level.
  • The drone must not carry any dangerous goods or drop any material.

Open Category Since January 1, 2024

Starting from January 1, 2024, operations in the open category must be conducted either with a drone bearing a C0, C1, C2, C3, or C4 class identification label or privately built or even without a class identification label, but only if placed on the market before December 31, 2023.

The markings look like this:

C0 Drone Class LabelC1 Drone Class LabelC2 Drone Class LabelC3 Drone Class LabelC4 Drone Class Label
easa drone c0 marking easa drone c1 marking easa drone c2 marking easa drone c3 marking easa drone c4 marking

If you are in the market, buy a drone with your desired marking. Choose one with the markings for the operations you will conduct.

For your benefit, here is a list of the currently available drones with class identification labels:

ClassCompanyTypeModel NameModel Numbers

easa drone c0 marking 		DJIMulti-rotorDJI Mini 2 SE
DJI Mini 3, Mini 3 Pro, Mini 4 Pro Fly More Combo		MT2SD, MT2SDCE, MT3PDCE, MT3PD,
MT3M3VDB, MT4MFVD

easa drone c1 marking 		DJIMulti-rotorAIR 3, DJI MAVIC 3 V2.0, Cine V2.0, ClassicEB3WBC , L2AA, L2PA, L2C
easa drone c2 marking AgEagleFixed-wingSENSEFLY eBeeSENSEFLY EBEE X, GEO,
AG, TAC PUBLIC SAFETY
easa drone c2 marking
DJIMulti-rotorM30 EU, M3OT EU, DJI MAVIC 3E EU, 3T EU, ЗМ EUM30 RTK EU, M30T RTK EU, M3E-EU, M3T-EU, M3M-EU
easa drone c3 marking Quantum-SystemsFixed-wingTrinity F90+R10
easa drone c3 marking DJI Multi-rotor Matrice 350 RTKM350 RTK

Open Category From January 1, 2024

You will be able to operate them as described in the table below.

Be aware that ‘privately built’ means that you built the drone for your own personal use, so it was not purchased; it does not refer to UASs assembled from sets of parts placed on the market as a single, ready-to-assemble kit.

After 1 January 2024, if you have purchased a drone before that date without a class identification label, you will still be able to fly it in subcategory A1 if it weighs up to 250g or in subcategory A3 if it weighs up to 25kg.

Drone CategoryOperation SubcategoryOperational RestrictionsDrone Operator RegistrationRemote Pilot CompetenceRemote Pilot Minimum Age
Privately Built and Drones bought before 1/1/24 (under 250 g)A1 (fly over people, but not assemblies) – can also fly in Subcategory A3May fly over uninvolved people (should be avoided when possible)

No flight over assemblies of people		Not required unless a camera or sensor is on board and the drone is not a toyNo Training requiredNo minimum age
C0 (under 250 gram)A1 (fly over people, but not assemblies) – can also fly in Subcategory A3No flight expected over uninvolved people (if it happens, overflight should be minimized)

No flight over assemblies of people

Maintain flight altitude below 120m above ground level		Not required unless a camera or sensor is on board and the drone is not a toyNo flight expected over uninvolved people (if it happens, overflight should be minimized)

No flight over assemblies of people

Maintain flight altitude below 120m above ground level		16 years (some states can lower it to 12, but this will only apply to that state). No minimum age if the drone is a toy
C1 (under 900 gram)A1 (fly over people, but not assemblies) – can also fly in Subcategory A3No flight expected over uninvolved people (if it happens, overflight should be minimised)

No flight over assemblies of people

Maintain flight altitude below 120m above ground level		Yes. Drone Registration is requiredRead the user manual carefully

Obtain a ‘Proof of completion for online training’ for A1/A3 ‘open’ subcategory by:

Completing the online training 

Passing the online theoretical exam		16 years (some states can lower it to 12, but this will only apply to that state
C2 (under 4 kg)A2 (fly close to people) – can also fly in Subcategory A3Must not overfly uninvolved people

Maintain a horizontal distance of 30 m from uninvolved people (can be reduced to 5 m if the low-speed function is activated)

Maintain flight altitude below 120m above ground level		Yes. Drone Registration is requiredRead the user manual carefully

Obtain a ’Remote pilot certificate of competency’ for A2 ‘open’ subcategory by:

Having a ‘Proof of completion for online training’ for A1/A3 ‘open’ subcategory 

Conducting and declare a practical self-training

Passing an additional theoretical exam at the NAA or proctored online		16 years (some states can lower it to 12, but this will only apply to that state)
C3 (under 25 kg)A3 (fly far from people)Must not overfly uninvolved people

Maintain a horizontal distance of 150 m from uninvolved people and urban areas

Maintain flight altitude below 120m above ground level.		Yes. Drone Registration is requiredRead the user manual carefully

Obtain a ‘Proof of completion for online training’ for the A1/A3 ‘open’ subcategory by:

Completing the online training 

Passing the online theoretical exam		16 years (some states can lower it to 12, but this will only apply to that state)
C4 (under 25 kg)A3 (fly far from people)Must not overfly uninvolved people

Maintain a horizontal distance of 150 m from uninvolved people and urban areas.

Maintain flight altitude below 120m above ground level.		Yes. Drone Registration is requiredRead the user manual carefully

Obtain a ‘Proof of completion for online training’ for the A1/A3 ‘open’ subcategory by:

Completing the online training 

Passing the online theoretical exam		16 years (some states can lower it to 12, but this will only apply to that state)
Privately Built and Drones bought before 1/1/24 (under 25 kg)A3 (fly far from people)Must not overfly uninvolved people

Maintain a horizontal distance of 150 m from uninvolved people and urban areas.

Maintain flight altitude below 120m above ground level.		Yes. Drone Registration is requiredRead the user manual carefully

Obtain a ‘Proof of completion for online training’ for the A1/A3 ‘open’ subcategory by:

Completing the online training 

Passing the online theoretical exam		16 years (some states can lower it to 12, but this will only apply to that state)
Table of EASA Open Category Classification and Operational Requirements in place from January 1, 2024

From 1 January 2024, all drones operating in the specific category and all drones with class marks operating in the open category will be required to operate with an active and up-to-date remote identification system.

Drones with class identification label C1, C2, C3, C5 and C6 are already equipped with a remote identification system.

For details on the EASA Category as of January 2024, please see the Open Category Explainer.

Registration

According to European Regulation (EU) 2019/947, registration is mandatory for UAS operators (not for UAS themselves).

The UAS Pilot, also known as the Remote Pilot (RP), is the person physically behind the UAS flight controls. They are fully responsible for the safety of the flight throughout operations.

The UAS Operator is the person or company who oversees operations and gives flight instructions. This person or legal entity bears all responsibility for the operations of the drone (s) on their behalf. Very often, in the OPEN category and as individuals, the Pilot and the Operator are the same person.

How to register as a drone pilot or operator in Italy?

In Italy, all drone pilots must register as an operator in the ENAC-approved D-Flight portal.

Recreational pilots with drones weighing less than 250 grams are exempt. However, the portal specifies that all drones with an HD camera or other equipment that could potentially invade the privacy of others must be registered, including those weighing less than 250 grams. 

This UAS operator registration number is valid for one year and must be renewed periodically following the same procedure. The operator always uses the same number unless the latter is permanently deregistered from the register.

Who should register?

As part of the OPEN category, registration is compulsory for operators:

  • UAS that have a mass of 250 g or more; 
  • UAS that have a mass of less than 250 g but:
    • can operate at speeds greater than 90km / h 
    • are equipped with a camera or a microphone, if these UAS are NOT toys * 

* A UAS is a toy when a manufacturer intends it for children under the age of 14 and meets the minimum safety criteria required to be so named. Compliance with these standards naturally limits the capabilities of the UAS (size, weight, non-dangerous spare parts, no powerful motor, etc.): see Directive 2009/48 / EC of 18 June 2009 on the safety of toys

Under the SPECIFIC category, registration is compulsory for all operators.

Natural persons can only register in the country where they reside.

Legal persons must register in the country where their principal place of business is located.

Registration can only be done in one Member State at a time.

Drone Insurance Italy – Compulsory for Commercial

Attention: For the operation of a drone in Italy, liability insurance is required. Your insurance coverage must be at least 1m EUR.

Note for foreign drone operators visiting Italy

Whether you are a resident of Italy or a visitor, you must operate within the limitations and follow the rules and procedures of the category in which your drone operation qualifies above.

EU Resident Visitors (Countries following EASA regulations)

  • If you are previously registered or have a remote pilot certificate in your home country or another EASA member state, then your registration and RPC are valid in Italy. Follow the operational rules for your category of drone flight.
  • If you have not been registered or have a remote pilot certificate previously, you will need to do so in your home country or Italy before conducting flights (depending on the category of drone flight you wish to undertake).

Operator Registration (Non-EU Residents)

  • If you are coming from a non-EU country and this is the first time you will fly your drone in an EU country, you MUST register as an Operator.
  • Upon registration, you will receive a unique Operator Registration number, which you MUST attach to your drone. If you have several drones, the same number must be attached to them.
  • You are not allowed to fly in NO FLY ZONES, and you must keep a minimum of 8km distance from airports/heliports.
  • If you have already conducted operations in another EU country before going to Italy, you must not register again. You always register to the first non-EU country where you have conducted flights.

Remote Pilot Certificate (Non-EU Residents)

  • If you want to fly your drone in Italy and live in a non-EU country, you must hold a Remote Pilot Certificate from an EU country.
  • You can get the A1/A3 Certificate by registering with the online Remote Pilot School.
  • The online training and exam are required for those who want to fly a drone in the ‘Open’ category in subcategories A1/A3.
  • The pass mark is 75%, and you have three attempts to pass.
  • Once you pass your exam, you will receive your remote pilot certificate. Its validity will be five years.
  • You must have your Remote Pilot Certificate when you plan to perform drone operations in Italy and present it when the authorities ask.

Notes for recreational drone pilots flying for fun in Italy

The most common drone flights you will undertake will most likely be covered by the Open Category described above.

For more details on the Open Category, please see our Open Category Explainer.

If your flights cannot be operated within the limitations of the Open Category, you may need to follow the Specific Category or Certified Category Rules.

For more details on the Specific Category, please see our Specific Category Explainer.

The Certified Category is complicated and aimed at the most sophisticated drone operators. We recommend you start at this EASA page.

Notes for operating Commercial Drone Services in Italy

The most common drone flights you will undertake will most likely be covered by the Open Category described above.

For more details on the Open Category, please see our Open Category Explainer.

If your flights cannot be operated within the limitations of the Open Category, you may need to follow the Specific Category or Certified Category Rules.

For more details on the Specific Category, please see our Specific Category Explainer.

The Certified Category is complicated and aimed at the most sophisticated drone operators. We recommend you start at this EASA page.

What you must know about Italy No Fly Zones or No Drone Zones

You need to know if you can operate your drone. Under what limitations? Will you need flight authorizations? And, if so, how do you get those authorizations?

We encourage you to read our explainer. It provides more details here: Explainer – What You Must Know About No Fly Zones or No Drone Zones

We provide links to where you can fly a drone below (Italy Drone Map).

Useful published information on flying drones in Italy

Here is a sample of what you might expect if you follow the drone laws and fly in Italy…

Authoritative Sources of Information on Italy Drone Laws

We will attempt to keep an updated list of online authoritative links to regulators and other official websites here:

NOTE: This page is about the Regulation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles: Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (SUAS), Small UAS, Remote Piloted Aerial Systems (RPAS), unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), Unmanned Aerial System (UAS), and drone are interchangeable terms unless specified. Model Aircraft, toy, remote-controlled, and RC aircraft may be covered by the same regulations unless specified.

Find out why

We think you must use a Drone Preflight Checklist

And a Drone Post-flight checklist

Free Drone Flight Checklist PDF

This Drone Flight Checklist is better than others.

It’s free!

It includes both the preflight checklist and post-flight checklist

It’s an easy-to-use printable PDF that covers all your bases.

Go here to read why you need a Drone Preflight Checklist and get the free PDF
Go here to read why you need a Drone Post-flight Checklist and get the free PDF

Traveling with a Drone?

Click here to read our Comprehensive Guide For Traveling With A Drone.

NOW IT’S YOUR TURN

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93 responses to “Drone Laws in Italy”

  1. Dominic

    I’m registered in the UK with an operator ID (attached to my drone) and a flyer ID (online test), do I have to remove the UK operator id from my Mini 3 pro (<250g) and obtain a new identification number for my drone, by passing a new test, before I can fly in Italy? How much will this cost? How long will it take?

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      You do not have to remove your ID, but you must follow the instructions above to regsiter in Italy (or another EASA location).

      Reply
  2. Michael

    Those that are US based, traveling to Italy can get insurance with Skywatch.
    If you purchase their monthly insurance, it cover you Worldwide including Italy.

    Reply
  3. Michael

    Where would I find the APR and GCS numbers to complete the d-flight registration?

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      On DJI, you will find THE GCS SN under the remote controller, near the QR code.
      The APR refers to the Remotely Piloted Aircraft SN.

      Reply
  4. billy

    Hi, I’m Malaysian. How to fill in the CF/CIF/TIN via d-flight

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      Billy, please contact D-flight (contact info provided above). We have many reports of difficulties with the registration process in Italy, please read the comments also.
      We also advise to register in other simpler EU markets if you are traveling around. The registration in any EASA location is valid for the others.
      Please come back and share anything you find helpful.

      Reply
      1. Miles

        I used my date of birth in the ddmmyyyy format and that got me through the CF/CIF/TIN question.

        Reply
        1. Editorial Team

          Thanks Miles. Adding this here for others to try.

          Reply
  5. Rob

    I will be visiting Italy and other parts of Europe in April May 2024. It looks like the new regulations for my DJI Pro3 means it needs to be registered and I need 1 million EUD liability insurance. Does anyone know of a company that will offer this insurance for a recreational user for 2 months?

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      You can register the drone in any EASA country, and it will be valid in Italy. The same is true for insurance (if the provider has not restricted the geography).

      Reply
  6. Daniel

    Hi, I read the whole article but I’m still a bit confused regarding the insurance requirements. I’m EU registered pilot with a DJI mini 3 pro drone with weight of less than 250g category. I’m visiting Italy soon and want to do some recreational, hobby videos. I have DjI insurance for damage of my drone. Buy do I need any other mandatory type of insurance In Italy for hobby flights?
    Thank you
    Greetings Daniel

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      Daniel, our understanding is that Italy requires liability insurance for drone flights.

      Reply
  7. Doug Caywood

    I just got registered through d-flight and now have a User ID, Operator ID, EASA ID, and each of my drones has a Tag with an alphanumeric starting ITAxxxxx. Do I have to put one of these numbers on my drone? If so, which one? Do I also have to tag my drone with my name, address, phone number? Thanks

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      You should add your operator id and drone tag to the drone

      Reply
    2. Michael

      Hi Doug,

      Where did you get the APR and GCS numbers to complete your registration on d-flight?
      Thanks,

      Reply
    3. Michael

      Where did you get the APR and GCS numbers to complete your registration on d-flight?
      Thanks,

      Reply
  8. Chirapong Ukachoke

    Would you please give a link of ENAC webpage or other Italy government agency that confirm the conclusion that “Drone Insurance is not required but recommended for tourist drone operations in Italy.” Because although I believe in this conclusion but I have to be sure that I will not violate ENAC rules and I would have reference in case Italy official ask me.

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      Chirping, drone insurance is required: https://www.enac.gov.it/en/safety-security/uas-drones/are-you-pilot-holding-certificate-issued-iaw-with-non-eu-country and https://www.enac.gov.it/en/safety-security/uas-drones/are-you-pilot-holding-eu-certificate-issued-by-another-eu-member-state

      Reply
  9. Joash

    I am traveling from India to Italy next week. I now have my online Pilot license (from Luxembourg which should technically work in Italy as well). However, I cannot find any insurance company allowing me to purchase drone insurance in Italy. Any help with this would be so helpful!

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      Drone insurance is not required for visitor hobbyist flights in Italy. Also, if you have insurance in Luxembourg, that should be valid in Italy.

      Will leave this here for any community advice if you are still looking for an insurance provider.

      Reply
  10. Axel

    impossible for me ( canadian ) to subscribe to d-flight for free for my DJI mini 3 pro.
    Ask me for a C.F/CIF/T.I.N – i dont have so impossible to create my account.
    Can you help me
    Regards

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Axel, a number of travelers have run into that issue with d-flight. Some suggestions:
      1. If you are flying elsewhere in EU then better to register there first and the registration will be valid in Italy.
      2. The C.F/CIF/T.I.N are for Italian citizens. Some have tried other numbers and have it work. One person reported using their DOB mmddyyyy and got it to work.
      Let us know if any of those work for you.

      Reply
      1. Vasilii

        Good afternoon. I encountered a similar problem, but at the next stage – registration as an operator. I travel to Italy and other European countries from Kazakhstan. Registered for d-flight. The site says that I can get an operator’s license by receiving a subscription and validating my documents via email. However, when I go to the operator registration section, my documents must be valid through the SPID service, which can only be used by Italian citizens. How can a foreigner register in this case? In addition, site support is only available by phone calls – which can be very expensive for foreigners

        Reply
        1. Editorial Team

          Vasilii, thre are several messages from others who have had the same experience. If you are traveling to other European countries, it may be easier to register in another that is governed by EASA (Please search for our EASA Page which lists them). Once you have registered in any EASA location you are eligible to fly in any EASA member state (in the open category).

          Reply
  11. Amir Baksh

    Hi Team,

    Hope all is well?

    Thank you for your time in replying to my email:

    I just want to double check some information –

    In regards to my drone – it weights 249 grams – it’s a DJI mini 3
    And I do own an flyer ID and operator licence of my home county here in the UK in open sub category A1 and A3: GBR-RP-CXKZDWF747L6

    I be using my drone for domestic use – photography and videos for my own personal use.

    I understand the drone will need to be set at 400 feet?

    Is there any more cautions I need to be aware of?

    Best

    Amir

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Amir, your registration is not valid for Italy as the UK is not part of the EASA regulations. You must follow the Italy rules as a visitor from outside the EU.

      Reply
  12. Brad Winslow

    I am a US citizen who will be visiting Italy in May-June 2023 timeframe. I want to fly my DJI Air 2 while in Italy, but I am unable to register in the D-Flight web site. I’m entering information in each field, but when I click “Create”, and then click ‘I Agree’ on the General Conditions page, I get a screen that says “Error on register user”. It doesn’t tell me what the error is, or what I need to do to fix it. I’ve tried various combinations of values for the fields, but nothing I’ve tried seems to work.

    I find the process of getting permission to fly my drone in Italy to be very confusing. Can you provide instructions that are more clear.

    Thank you in advance

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      The D-Flight website has been challenging for some users and has been changed a number of times. Perhaps one of our readers can share their experience in what works on this site now.

      Reply
  13. Harry

    I think it’s clear that the ENAC/Dflight process is quite vague at best. My mavic mini 3 pro is registered in another easa state, does this mean I can fly in Italy with no further registering required?
    As on the website it is vauge in how it is written and doesn’t clearly state either way. Which is very odd considering you shouldn’t hold more than one EASA state approval.

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Harry, if you have an EASA registration and credentials, they are valid in Italy.

      Reply
  14. SANDRO

    Hi, I am Austrian and have a registered Mini2 DJI (under 250g with camera), I am insured – everything under EU rules in Austria, and I do not really understand if I still have to register myself as operator or pilot in Italy (I am going to Venice next)?

    Moreover I would appreciate it very much, if you could link me to the D flight portal – but exactly to the link, where one can download it to the smartphone. Because I cannot find it.
    And – do I have to pay for anything (as one in EU already registered pilot and operator) – as for the map new registering?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Sandro, the link above to D flight portal works. At the top of the page there is a link to the web app. We are not sure there is a specific mobile app.
      Here is the link for the English site: https://www.d-flight.it/new_portal/en/

      Reply
  15. Gabriel

    Hello, do you know which are the penalties if you don’t have insurance?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Please contact the regulators. Penalties vary significantly and change over time, so its best to get the latest there.

      Reply
  16. Mike

    So I’m traveling to Rome, Florence, Amalfi Coast and Assisi and according to D-Flight maps, these are all no fly zones. So even with my mavic mini, 249g, in the open category, following height/distance/vlos restrictions and being registered with D-Flight (stickers on the drone), I would be unable to fly in all of these areas? If that’s the case, then there’s no point packing the drone. Thanks!

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Mike, if it’s listed as a no-fly zone, then you need the authorization to fly. Check with the regulator

      Reply
      1. Ricardo Cardoso

        Hi Merlin,
        Thank you so much for this page!
        Do you know how hard is to get authorization to fly in Venice or other no-fly zones? this would be a commercial filming flight.

        Thank you again!

        Reply
        1. Merlin at Drone Laws

          Ricardo, thank you for your comment. In commercial cases, there is a separate process, and we understand that the regulators are quite selective about approvals in Venice. That said, there have been approvals granted.

          Reply
    2. Kevin Read

      They aren’t listed as no fly zones in D-flight. There are some areas yes, but most areas you can fly. There are height limitations. On the Amalfi coast there are very few restrictions per D-flight.

      Reply
  17. Kristofer

    Hi,

    I was looking through the d-flight website and I still do not understand some of the rules. I’ll be staying close to Budoni next week and while the DJI map shows no flight limitations, d-flight says something like: “open 45m” but then in details it says that flight under the open category is prohibited. I read through the document cited there but I could not find any mention of the open category. The rule is related to the airport and helipad proximity but since the distance is I think around 10-15km you can fly up to 45m. How should I understand the part about prohibition for the open category? It seems like contradictory information.
    Secondly, do I understand it correctly that as an EU resident and registered operator with A1/A3 and A2 category exams passed, I do not need to do anything before flying in Italy? Or do I still need to register somewhere?

    I would really appreciate your reply.

    Reply
  18. Kristofer

    Hi! I have read the whole article and tried to look up the rules on other websites but I am still not 100% sure about all the rules.
    I am a EU resident, registered as an operator and passed the A1/A3 and A2 courses.
    As I understand it, that should be enough to fly a Mavic Air2 drone in Italy, right? Or do I need to register in Italy as well for any reason?

    My second question is related to the D-Flight portal maps vs DJI maps. In DJI app, I can see safety zones around airport etc. but when I checked Sardinia, specifically Porto Ottiolu, it seems that the zones around the airport and a Helipad extend way more than mentioned 5 or 8 km. I click the specific zone and get following info:

    “Open max height 45m
    The geographical area is defined starting from a minimum height of 45 meters above the ground AS operations of the Open category are prohibited within the geographical area. Within the geographical area, operations are permitted for AS of the specific or certified category, as reported in the ATM-09 circular, paragraphs 7, 8 and 9.”

    How should I understand this? DJI app says it is ok to fly there, the d-flight says open max height 45m but then that operations of the Open category are prohibited.

    I would really appreciate any response.

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      You are qualified to operate in Italy as an EU operator.
      The D-flight maps are typically more precise and up to date than DJI, so we recommend you use those.

      Reply
      1. Kristofer

        Hi Merlin,

        Thank you so much for your reply. I am sorry about my second comment. I posted it a moment ago because my first one was not visible until I posted the second one.

        Could you please comment on the fact that d-flight says Open max height 45m but then that operation under open is prohibited? Which one is it? It seems to be the same all over Sardinia.

        Reply
        1. Merlin at Drone Laws

          Kristofer, the “open category” means that you can operate without authorization or prior registration. The portal indicates that flights can be operated at max 45m but will require prior authorization.

          Reply
  19. Cas

    Hello,
    I have a DJI mini 2 weighing less than 250g. I got my Remote Pilote Certificate from Ireland, so based on what I read this is valid in Italy. I will register in the D-Flight portal and after that, based on what I can read, I am legally allowed to fly in Italy. Is this correct?
    However, I read that flying in urban areas is not allowed in Italy. But if I read the EASA summary of Drone Flight Operations Requirements table above, it seems that with a <250g drone I am actually allowed to fly in urban areas. Is this true?

    I am hope you could confirm that I am understanding this correctly. Thank you very much in advance and best regards,
    Cas.

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      According to EASA you can fly in urban areas unless there are specific regulations against doing so. Use the maps on the d-flight portal to check for restrictions

      Reply
  20. Huy

    Hi Merlin,

    I have a DJI mini 3 (<250g with a cam). I have 2 questions.

    1) On the registration, what is the APR? It's the Serial nr: frame number: ENAC term: APR. I already provided by flight control and ground control numbers.
    2) Once registered through the D-flight portal, should I be good to go? I have not registered my drone anywhere else (in the US) or had any training on how to fly.

    Thanks in advance.

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      You should be able to search for the drone type and register that way.
      Once you are registered, you are good to go.

      Reply
  21. Michael

    Hi.
    I am planning to visit Sardinia in September and i have EASA UAS operator number. I am trying to get access to d-flight restriciton zone map, but i cannot register because of taxpayer number which is invalid. I live in Ireland, but i am from Poland. I am a recreational pilot flying Mini 3. Is there any way to get access to map and restriciton zones ?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      The best options in Italy are the D-flight portal, but there may be other web apps available with this information. maybe someone in the community can point you to alternatives.

      Reply
  22. Selena

    Can you provide a link to A1/A3 Certificate by registering with the online Remote Pilot School? there are so many online hard to see what is a scam. Also the registration for D-Flight portal doesn’t work. The website is a disaster and there’s no email for contacting them. Any tips? I can’t even get the registration page to open. It just opens a blank white page that says “invalid answer” from any browser or computer. Super frustrated!

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Selena, we did not have a problem with the link. Can you check again please?

      On the school recommendations, perhaps someone in the community can provide some advice

      Reply
      1. Rob

        I’m getting the same, two different computers, two different browsers – It just opens a blank white page that says “invalid answer”. Is there another link to register? Also getting the same “invalid answer” opening the map link

        Reply
        1. Merlin at Drone Laws

          Rob, the link for the registration site is working and will take you to https://www.d-flight.it/new_portal/en/

          Reply
  23. Thomas

    I will be visiting Italy in September 2022, I am from the US, I have done the following below, am I missing anything to fly my DJI Mini 3 Pro for recreational purposes. Also, would you provide any advice when attempting to fly recreationally…. in example do I need to contact the local authority?

    – I have a TRUST Certificate
    – I have registered my drone with the FAADroneZone (labeled on the drone)
    – I have my A1-A3 Open Sub Category License
    – I have registered as an Operator in the D-Flight Portal (labeled on the drone)

    Thank you in advance.

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      You should be good to go in the open category. Follow the rules and do not fly in restricted areas.

      Reply
      1. Mike

        So on the D-Flight map, the area of Rome which is one huge no fly zone, even with the mavic mini, less 250g, I cannot fly in this area? So most of the people with video on youtube was taken illegally?

        Reply
        1. Merlin at Drone Laws

          They could have received authorization to fly.

          Reply
  24. Eric Braun

    Can we fly a DJI Inspire 2 drone in Italy? It seems that it doesn’t have the required Electronic Identification Device and DJI has no update for it.

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Eric, the EID requirement is not yet implemented so for now that drone is allowed

      Reply
  25. T

    Hi there

    I’m conducting some commercial operations under the Specific Category in Italy later this year. I have a EASA permission for the Specific Category from another EU member state. I have registered on the d-flight portal, I am now trying to register on the EASA website as I am aware that I need to do this if wanting to fly in Specific. I can’t get passed the page asking for “Codice Fiscale”. Do you have any advice, and have I gone through the correct process? Thanks

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Did you try a placeholder? It should allow you to get to the next page.

      Reply
    2. Scott

      I am a uk citizen looking to fly my mini 3 pro in venice italy on holiday.
      I am registered and have operator id on my drone. Is there any other requirements i need?

      Reply
      1. Will

        Is someone from the UK classed as Non-EU Resident and therefore would need to complete the Operator Registration and Remote Pilot Certificate (even if they have completed this in the UK)? Thanks

        Reply
  26. Dave

    hi there! I am an american and lover of all things ancient rome and I will be visiting spain, rome, and turkey to visit all the ancient roman artifacts and buildings in the near future. I already fly drones in the US and I would really really love to be able to film Marcus Aurelius’ column or even to get some footage of the Pantheon.

    I see some of the requisites for being able to fly drones as an EU citizen. How would I find out more information as an american? We also have licensing in the US to fly drones, perhaps that might be honored in the EU some way? And if I am mistaken that I wouldn’t be able to film something like Marcus Aurelius’ column because it is an ancient artifact, is there a way I can get permitting to do that or is it just completely impossible?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Dave, the major historical sites are quite rigorous in limiting hobbyist drone flights as you can imagine the danger they pose to tourist groups, as well as the monuments. You should check to make sure the location you are interested isn’t in a no fly zone.

      It may be possible if the drone you are using is below 250g weight which does not need to be registered, however we would contact the regulator to get the best advice on this situation.

      As a non-EU operator, you will need to register to fly your drone in Italy. Follow the link provided above.

      Let us know what your experience was like.

      Reply
  27. Chris Phelan

    How do register on https://www.d-flight.it/web-app/authentication/(authentication:register) without a codice fiscale (Italian tax code)?

    The site registration (and android app) seems to have a mandatory field without which you cannot proceed.

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Chris, if you properly fill in your birth location as outside Italy, try using zeros or another number of the TIN. You should be able to get to the next section and fill in those fields before you create an account.

      Reply
    2. T

      Hello, did you manage to get past this?

      Thanks

      Reply
  28. Michael De Florio

    It’s soo complicated, so many conflicting websites and info but this seems to make or have some sense 🙂

    I am a licensed commercial drone op in Australia, I have 20 million dollar liability world wide insurance and fly Mavic 3 cine, under 2kg, so, can I register my drone and fly, purely recreational in the appropriate areas and staying with in the confines of the law? Or do I need to get an A3 licence, remembering I’m not flying for commercial purposes in italy ..!

    Thank you in advanced

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Michael, you should be able to fly recreationally in Italy without the A3 license. But you must register as an operator, and you must get the remote pilot certificate (it is possible that Italy will accept your Australian certification, but you will have to check with the regulator).

      Reply
      1. Michael De Florio

        Thank you for your reply, appreciate the info and yes, you would imagine it would be accepted as we go through a 5 day theory and practice sessions on top of the 3k cost, your almost a helicopter pilot by the time you finish lol

        Anyway, I will check it out but you sadly never get responses from Italian side but will keep persisting or do the A3 online course …thank you non the less 👉🏼🙏🏼

        Reply
  29. Joe

    Hello,
    Going to Italy June 2022. Wanting to fly my drone for recreation.

    I have a D-flight base subscription, registered myself as a UAS operator for my Mavic Mini. Provided ID and received my EASA ID.

    I have read conflicting info about labeling the drone.
    See below:
    Notes for recreational drone pilots flying for fun in Italy
    Private drone flying is allowed in Italy. You must follow the rules listed below:

    Special permission is not necessary.
    Maximum Height
    70m / 229ft
    70m / 229ft: special permission required
    The drone needs to remain in sight always (line-of-sight)
    Maximum Take-Off Weight
    < 25kg / 55lbs without special permission
    25kg / 55lbs special permission required
    Flying a drone in Italy is allowed during the daytime only.
    Night-time flights need special approval.
    *****Labeling requirements are not required*******
    Drone liability insurance is always required.
    Maintain a frequency of 2.5GHz or 5.8 GHz & max 100Mw
    Keep off people, buildings, sporting events, and generally private property.

    Then here I read this:
    Note for foreign operators
    Operator Registration (Non-EU Residents)
    *****If you are coming from a non-EU country and this is the first time you will fly your drone in an EU country, you MUST register as an Operator.
    Upon registration, you will receive a unique Operator Registration number which you MUST attach to your drone. If you have several drones, the same number must be attached to all of them.******
    You are not allowed to fly in NO FLY ZONES, and you must keep aways a minimum of 8km distance away from airports/heliports.
    If you already conducted operations in another EU country before going to Italy, you must not register again. You always register to the first non-EU country you have conducted flights
    As stated the drone is registered.

    Do I need to label my drone and/or controller?
    If so with what number?
    EASA ID?
    OPERATORS ID?
    I AM UNDER THE IMPRESSION THAT I AM TO KEEP MY EASA ID PRIVATE.
    Any help with this is much appreciated!!

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      If you are non-EU then you mark your drone with your operator registration number.

      Reply
  30. Rui Freitas

    I’m a portuguese registered drone operator and i’m carrying my DJI mini 2 to Italy in May to fly in A1 Open Category.
    I’ve registered in D-Flight app and paid the 6€ for the basic user. Then i tried to register my drone (since it’s mandatory(?)) but it wouldn’t let me since i didn’t have the operator register there. I introduced my personal info and the portal has created a new Operator code for me… that wasn’t what i had in mind…. yet i’ve registred the drone first and then asked for that ITA***** code to be deleted since i have my POR*** code already.
    All the info concerning tourist always refers to non-EU people. What do i need to do to fly legally in Italy with my DJI mini 2?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Rui, our understanding is that your EU operator code and registration will be valid in Italy (or all EASA jurisdictions).

      Reply
  31. Bob Dempsey

    Can you buy liability insurance as a US resident for Italy?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Your drone liability insurance should cover this (unless the policy is limited to USA only)

      Reply
      1. Mike

        None of the US insurance policies extend to Europe and I cannot find a way to buy European or Italian insurance without being an EU/Italian resident. If someone creates an online company to offer cheap drone insurance, could get rich quick!

        Reply
        1. Ricardo Cardoso

          https://www.deutsche-modellsport-organisation.de/en/drone-insurances

          Reply
  32. Gang Shen

    I will visit Italy this year, and would like to fly drone for recreational purpose. My questions are:

    1: I already sent application to register as UAS operator in D-flight website.

    2: Do I also need to register my drone?

    3: I passed recreational drone flight test in USA, do I need to take such test for
    flying drone in Italy? if yes, can I get a website to take this test online?

    4: Must I need to get liability insurance to fly drone in Italy? Some website says
    that this insurance is not compulsory.

    Thank you for letting me know

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      2. Operators are required to be registered, not drones.
      3. Yes, please see the section for foreign operator above.
      4. Our understanding is that Liability insurance is always required.

      When in doubt, please contact the regulator directly using the links provided above.

      Reply
      1. Ash

        Will it be correct to say that at least until 31-Dec-2022, if the Drone is less 250g, no pilot training or exam is necessary for Category A1 / A3?

        Reply
        1. Merlin at Drone Laws

          We don’t expect any changes coming in the regulations, but they can occur at any time. Keep checking

          Reply
  33. matthew

    I’m going to be going to Italy in May and I do plan on bringing my drone, after registering it and taking the drone course to use it recreationaly, I’m wondering if there a special map that shows you where you can fly it along with absolute no fly zones. thanks

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Matthew, the D-Flight Portal used for registration and linked above can also provide maps.

      Reply
  34. David

    I have a dji mini se with a weight less than 250g. Do i need to register it for use in Italy mid 2022.

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      David:
      As part of the OPEN category, registration is compulsory for operators if:
      1. UAS that have a mass of 250 g or more;
      2. UAS that have a mass of less than 250 g but are able to operate at speeds greater than 90km, or are equipped with a camera or a microphone, if these UAS are NOT toys
      * A UAS is a toy when a manufacturer intends it for children under the age of 14 and meets the minimum safety criteria required to be so named.

      Reply
  35. Donald Edington

    I will be visiting Italy in May. I am from the US and my drone is less than 250 grams. I fly it for recreation only. What do I need to do to fly this drone legally in Italy?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Donald, the EU rules, applicable in Italy, requires the operator to register. The drone under 250 grams does not have to be registered unless it has a camera.

      Reply
    2. Abir

      Where does it say that insurance is a must for the micro drones under 250g.

      Looking for official source.

      Reply
      1. Editorial Team

        https://www.enac.gov.it/en/safety-security/uas-drones/are-you-pilot-holding-eu-certificate-issued-by-another-eu-member-state
        Note:

        If your UAS weighs less than 250 grams and is equipped with any sensor (i.e. camera):

        no remote pilot certificate will be required for operations in the OPEN category as per EU reg. 2019/947
        registration on d-flight website will be required(in case you are at the same time pilot and operator) a liability insurance is required

        Reply

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93 thoughts on “Drone Laws in Italy”

  1. I’m registered in the UK with an operator ID (attached to my drone) and a flyer ID (online test), do I have to remove the UK operator id from my Mini 3 pro (<250g) and obtain a new identification number for my drone, by passing a new test, before I can fly in Italy? How much will this cost? How long will it take?

    Reply

    • You do not have to remove your ID, but you must follow the instructions above to regsiter in Italy (or another EASA location).

      Reply

  2. Those that are US based, traveling to Italy can get insurance with Skywatch.
    If you purchase their monthly insurance, it cover you Worldwide including Italy.

    Reply

    • On DJI, you will find THE GCS SN under the remote controller, near the QR code.
      The APR refers to the Remotely Piloted Aircraft SN.

      Reply

    • Billy, please contact D-flight (contact info provided above). We have many reports of difficulties with the registration process in Italy, please read the comments also.
      We also advise to register in other simpler EU markets if you are traveling around. The registration in any EASA location is valid for the others.
      Please come back and share anything you find helpful.

      Reply

  5. I will be visiting Italy and other parts of Europe in April May 2024. It looks like the new regulations for my DJI Pro3 means it needs to be registered and I need 1 million EUD liability insurance. Does anyone know of a company that will offer this insurance for a recreational user for 2 months?

    Reply

    • You can register the drone in any EASA country, and it will be valid in Italy. The same is true for insurance (if the provider has not restricted the geography).

      Reply

  6. Hi, I read the whole article but I’m still a bit confused regarding the insurance requirements. I’m EU registered pilot with a DJI mini 3 pro drone with weight of less than 250g category. I’m visiting Italy soon and want to do some recreational, hobby videos. I have DjI insurance for damage of my drone. Buy do I need any other mandatory type of insurance In Italy for hobby flights?
    Thank you
    Greetings Daniel

    Reply

  7. I just got registered through d-flight and now have a User ID, Operator ID, EASA ID, and each of my drones has a Tag with an alphanumeric starting ITAxxxxx. Do I have to put one of these numbers on my drone? If so, which one? Do I also have to tag my drone with my name, address, phone number? Thanks

    Reply

  8. Would you please give a link of ENAC webpage or other Italy government agency that confirm the conclusion that “Drone Insurance is not required but recommended for tourist drone operations in Italy.” Because although I believe in this conclusion but I have to be sure that I will not violate ENAC rules and I would have reference in case Italy official ask me.

    Reply

  9. I am traveling from India to Italy next week. I now have my online Pilot license (from Luxembourg which should technically work in Italy as well). However, I cannot find any insurance company allowing me to purchase drone insurance in Italy. Any help with this would be so helpful!

    Reply

    • Drone insurance is not required for visitor hobbyist flights in Italy. Also, if you have insurance in Luxembourg, that should be valid in Italy.

      Will leave this here for any community advice if you are still looking for an insurance provider.

      Reply

  10. impossible for me ( canadian ) to subscribe to d-flight for free for my DJI mini 3 pro.
    Ask me for a C.F/CIF/T.I.N – i dont have so impossible to create my account.
    Can you help me
    Regards

    Reply

    • Axel, a number of travelers have run into that issue with d-flight. Some suggestions:
      1. If you are flying elsewhere in EU then better to register there first and the registration will be valid in Italy.
      2. The C.F/CIF/T.I.N are for Italian citizens. Some have tried other numbers and have it work. One person reported using their DOB mmddyyyy and got it to work.
      Let us know if any of those work for you.

      Reply

      • Good afternoon. I encountered a similar problem, but at the next stage – registration as an operator. I travel to Italy and other European countries from Kazakhstan. Registered for d-flight. The site says that I can get an operator’s license by receiving a subscription and validating my documents via email. However, when I go to the operator registration section, my documents must be valid through the SPID service, which can only be used by Italian citizens. How can a foreigner register in this case? In addition, site support is only available by phone calls – which can be very expensive for foreigners

        Reply

        • Vasilii, thre are several messages from others who have had the same experience. If you are traveling to other European countries, it may be easier to register in another that is governed by EASA (Please search for our EASA Page which lists them). Once you have registered in any EASA location you are eligible to fly in any EASA member state (in the open category).

          Reply

  11. Hi Team,

    Hope all is well?

    Thank you for your time in replying to my email:

    I just want to double check some information –

    In regards to my drone – it weights 249 grams – it’s a DJI mini 3
    And I do own an flyer ID and operator licence of my home county here in the UK in open sub category A1 and A3: GBR-RP-CXKZDWF747L6

    I be using my drone for domestic use – photography and videos for my own personal use.

    I understand the drone will need to be set at 400 feet?

    Is there any more cautions I need to be aware of?

    Best

    Amir

    Reply

    • Amir, your registration is not valid for Italy as the UK is not part of the EASA regulations. You must follow the Italy rules as a visitor from outside the EU.

      Reply

  12. I am a US citizen who will be visiting Italy in May-June 2023 timeframe. I want to fly my DJI Air 2 while in Italy, but I am unable to register in the D-Flight web site. I’m entering information in each field, but when I click “Create”, and then click ‘I Agree’ on the General Conditions page, I get a screen that says “Error on register user”. It doesn’t tell me what the error is, or what I need to do to fix it. I’ve tried various combinations of values for the fields, but nothing I’ve tried seems to work.

    I find the process of getting permission to fly my drone in Italy to be very confusing. Can you provide instructions that are more clear.

    Thank you in advance

    Reply

    • The D-Flight website has been challenging for some users and has been changed a number of times. Perhaps one of our readers can share their experience in what works on this site now.

      Reply

  13. I think it’s clear that the ENAC/Dflight process is quite vague at best. My mavic mini 3 pro is registered in another easa state, does this mean I can fly in Italy with no further registering required?
    As on the website it is vauge in how it is written and doesn’t clearly state either way. Which is very odd considering you shouldn’t hold more than one EASA state approval.

    Reply

  14. Hi, I am Austrian and have a registered Mini2 DJI (under 250g with camera), I am insured – everything under EU rules in Austria, and I do not really understand if I still have to register myself as operator or pilot in Italy (I am going to Venice next)?

    Moreover I would appreciate it very much, if you could link me to the D flight portal – but exactly to the link, where one can download it to the smartphone. Because I cannot find it.
    And – do I have to pay for anything (as one in EU already registered pilot and operator) – as for the map new registering?

    Reply

    • Please contact the regulators. Penalties vary significantly and change over time, so its best to get the latest there.

      Reply

  16. So I’m traveling to Rome, Florence, Amalfi Coast and Assisi and according to D-Flight maps, these are all no fly zones. So even with my mavic mini, 249g, in the open category, following height/distance/vlos restrictions and being registered with D-Flight (stickers on the drone), I would be unable to fly in all of these areas? If that’s the case, then there’s no point packing the drone. Thanks!

    Reply

      • Hi Merlin,
        Thank you so much for this page!
        Do you know how hard is to get authorization to fly in Venice or other no-fly zones? this would be a commercial filming flight.

        Thank you again!

        Reply

        • Ricardo, thank you for your comment. In commercial cases, there is a separate process, and we understand that the regulators are quite selective about approvals in Venice. That said, there have been approvals granted.

          Reply

    • They aren’t listed as no fly zones in D-flight. There are some areas yes, but most areas you can fly. There are height limitations. On the Amalfi coast there are very few restrictions per D-flight.

      Reply

  17. Hi,

    I was looking through the d-flight website and I still do not understand some of the rules. I’ll be staying close to Budoni next week and while the DJI map shows no flight limitations, d-flight says something like: “open 45m” but then in details it says that flight under the open category is prohibited. I read through the document cited there but I could not find any mention of the open category. The rule is related to the airport and helipad proximity but since the distance is I think around 10-15km you can fly up to 45m. How should I understand the part about prohibition for the open category? It seems like contradictory information.
    Secondly, do I understand it correctly that as an EU resident and registered operator with A1/A3 and A2 category exams passed, I do not need to do anything before flying in Italy? Or do I still need to register somewhere?

    I would really appreciate your reply.

    Reply

  18. Hi! I have read the whole article and tried to look up the rules on other websites but I am still not 100% sure about all the rules.
    I am a EU resident, registered as an operator and passed the A1/A3 and A2 courses.
    As I understand it, that should be enough to fly a Mavic Air2 drone in Italy, right? Or do I need to register in Italy as well for any reason?

    My second question is related to the D-Flight portal maps vs DJI maps. In DJI app, I can see safety zones around airport etc. but when I checked Sardinia, specifically Porto Ottiolu, it seems that the zones around the airport and a Helipad extend way more than mentioned 5 or 8 km. I click the specific zone and get following info:

    “Open max height 45m
    The geographical area is defined starting from a minimum height of 45 meters above the ground AS operations of the Open category are prohibited within the geographical area. Within the geographical area, operations are permitted for AS of the specific or certified category, as reported in the ATM-09 circular, paragraphs 7, 8 and 9.”

    How should I understand this? DJI app says it is ok to fly there, the d-flight says open max height 45m but then that operations of the Open category are prohibited.

    I would really appreciate any response.

    Reply

    • You are qualified to operate in Italy as an EU operator.
      The D-flight maps are typically more precise and up to date than DJI, so we recommend you use those.

      Reply

      • Hi Merlin,

        Thank you so much for your reply. I am sorry about my second comment. I posted it a moment ago because my first one was not visible until I posted the second one.

        Could you please comment on the fact that d-flight says Open max height 45m but then that operation under open is prohibited? Which one is it? It seems to be the same all over Sardinia.

        Reply

        • Kristofer, the “open category” means that you can operate without authorization or prior registration. The portal indicates that flights can be operated at max 45m but will require prior authorization.

          Reply

  19. Hello,
    I have a DJI mini 2 weighing less than 250g. I got my Remote Pilote Certificate from Ireland, so based on what I read this is valid in Italy. I will register in the D-Flight portal and after that, based on what I can read, I am legally allowed to fly in Italy. Is this correct?
    However, I read that flying in urban areas is not allowed in Italy. But if I read the EASA summary of Drone Flight Operations Requirements table above, it seems that with a <250g drone I am actually allowed to fly in urban areas. Is this true?

    I am hope you could confirm that I am understanding this correctly. Thank you very much in advance and best regards,
    Cas.

    Reply

    • According to EASA you can fly in urban areas unless there are specific regulations against doing so. Use the maps on the d-flight portal to check for restrictions

      Reply

  20. Hi Merlin,

    I have a DJI mini 3 (<250g with a cam). I have 2 questions.

    1) On the registration, what is the APR? It's the Serial nr: frame number: ENAC term: APR. I already provided by flight control and ground control numbers.
    2) Once registered through the D-flight portal, should I be good to go? I have not registered my drone anywhere else (in the US) or had any training on how to fly.

    Thanks in advance.

    Reply

    • You should be able to search for the drone type and register that way.
      Once you are registered, you are good to go.

      Reply

  21. Hi.
    I am planning to visit Sardinia in September and i have EASA UAS operator number. I am trying to get access to d-flight restriciton zone map, but i cannot register because of taxpayer number which is invalid. I live in Ireland, but i am from Poland. I am a recreational pilot flying Mini 3. Is there any way to get access to map and restriciton zones ?

    Reply

    • The best options in Italy are the D-flight portal, but there may be other web apps available with this information. maybe someone in the community can point you to alternatives.

      Reply

  22. Can you provide a link to A1/A3 Certificate by registering with the online Remote Pilot School? there are so many online hard to see what is a scam. Also the registration for D-Flight portal doesn’t work. The website is a disaster and there’s no email for contacting them. Any tips? I can’t even get the registration page to open. It just opens a blank white page that says “invalid answer” from any browser or computer. Super frustrated!

    Reply

  23. I will be visiting Italy in September 2022, I am from the US, I have done the following below, am I missing anything to fly my DJI Mini 3 Pro for recreational purposes. Also, would you provide any advice when attempting to fly recreationally…. in example do I need to contact the local authority?

    – I have a TRUST Certificate
    – I have registered my drone with the FAADroneZone (labeled on the drone)
    – I have my A1-A3 Open Sub Category License
    – I have registered as an Operator in the D-Flight Portal (labeled on the drone)

    Thank you in advance.

    Reply

  24. Can we fly a DJI Inspire 2 drone in Italy? It seems that it doesn’t have the required Electronic Identification Device and DJI has no update for it.

    Reply

  25. Hi there

    I’m conducting some commercial operations under the Specific Category in Italy later this year. I have a EASA permission for the Specific Category from another EU member state. I have registered on the d-flight portal, I am now trying to register on the EASA website as I am aware that I need to do this if wanting to fly in Specific. I can’t get passed the page asking for “Codice Fiscale”. Do you have any advice, and have I gone through the correct process? Thanks

    Reply

    • I am a uk citizen looking to fly my mini 3 pro in venice italy on holiday.
      I am registered and have operator id on my drone. Is there any other requirements i need?

      Reply

      • Is someone from the UK classed as Non-EU Resident and therefore would need to complete the Operator Registration and Remote Pilot Certificate (even if they have completed this in the UK)? Thanks

        Reply

  26. hi there! I am an american and lover of all things ancient rome and I will be visiting spain, rome, and turkey to visit all the ancient roman artifacts and buildings in the near future. I already fly drones in the US and I would really really love to be able to film Marcus Aurelius’ column or even to get some footage of the Pantheon.

    I see some of the requisites for being able to fly drones as an EU citizen. How would I find out more information as an american? We also have licensing in the US to fly drones, perhaps that might be honored in the EU some way? And if I am mistaken that I wouldn’t be able to film something like Marcus Aurelius’ column because it is an ancient artifact, is there a way I can get permitting to do that or is it just completely impossible?

    Reply

    • Dave, the major historical sites are quite rigorous in limiting hobbyist drone flights as you can imagine the danger they pose to tourist groups, as well as the monuments. You should check to make sure the location you are interested isn’t in a no fly zone.

      It may be possible if the drone you are using is below 250g weight which does not need to be registered, however we would contact the regulator to get the best advice on this situation.

      As a non-EU operator, you will need to register to fly your drone in Italy. Follow the link provided above.

      Let us know what your experience was like.

      Reply

    • Chris, if you properly fill in your birth location as outside Italy, try using zeros or another number of the TIN. You should be able to get to the next section and fill in those fields before you create an account.

      Reply

  28. It’s soo complicated, so many conflicting websites and info but this seems to make or have some sense 🙂

    I am a licensed commercial drone op in Australia, I have 20 million dollar liability world wide insurance and fly Mavic 3 cine, under 2kg, so, can I register my drone and fly, purely recreational in the appropriate areas and staying with in the confines of the law? Or do I need to get an A3 licence, remembering I’m not flying for commercial purposes in italy ..!

    Thank you in advanced

    Reply

    • Michael, you should be able to fly recreationally in Italy without the A3 license. But you must register as an operator, and you must get the remote pilot certificate (it is possible that Italy will accept your Australian certification, but you will have to check with the regulator).

      Reply

      • Thank you for your reply, appreciate the info and yes, you would imagine it would be accepted as we go through a 5 day theory and practice sessions on top of the 3k cost, your almost a helicopter pilot by the time you finish lol

        Anyway, I will check it out but you sadly never get responses from Italian side but will keep persisting or do the A3 online course …thank you non the less 👉🏼🙏🏼

        Reply

  29. Hello,
    Going to Italy June 2022. Wanting to fly my drone for recreation.

    I have a D-flight base subscription, registered myself as a UAS operator for my Mavic Mini. Provided ID and received my EASA ID.

    I have read conflicting info about labeling the drone.
    See below:
    Notes for recreational drone pilots flying for fun in Italy
    Private drone flying is allowed in Italy. You must follow the rules listed below:

    Special permission is not necessary.
    Maximum Height
    70m / 229ft
    70m / 229ft: special permission required
    The drone needs to remain in sight always (line-of-sight)
    Maximum Take-Off Weight
    < 25kg / 55lbs without special permission
    25kg / 55lbs special permission required
    Flying a drone in Italy is allowed during the daytime only.
    Night-time flights need special approval.
    *****Labeling requirements are not required*******
    Drone liability insurance is always required.
    Maintain a frequency of 2.5GHz or 5.8 GHz & max 100Mw
    Keep off people, buildings, sporting events, and generally private property.

    Then here I read this:
    Note for foreign operators
    Operator Registration (Non-EU Residents)
    *****If you are coming from a non-EU country and this is the first time you will fly your drone in an EU country, you MUST register as an Operator.
    Upon registration, you will receive a unique Operator Registration number which you MUST attach to your drone. If you have several drones, the same number must be attached to all of them.******
    You are not allowed to fly in NO FLY ZONES, and you must keep aways a minimum of 8km distance away from airports/heliports.
    If you already conducted operations in another EU country before going to Italy, you must not register again. You always register to the first non-EU country you have conducted flights
    As stated the drone is registered.

    Do I need to label my drone and/or controller?
    If so with what number?
    EASA ID?
    OPERATORS ID?
    I AM UNDER THE IMPRESSION THAT I AM TO KEEP MY EASA ID PRIVATE.
    Any help with this is much appreciated!!

    Reply

  30. I’m a portuguese registered drone operator and i’m carrying my DJI mini 2 to Italy in May to fly in A1 Open Category.
    I’ve registered in D-Flight app and paid the 6€ for the basic user. Then i tried to register my drone (since it’s mandatory(?)) but it wouldn’t let me since i didn’t have the operator register there. I introduced my personal info and the portal has created a new Operator code for me… that wasn’t what i had in mind…. yet i’ve registred the drone first and then asked for that ITA***** code to be deleted since i have my POR*** code already.
    All the info concerning tourist always refers to non-EU people. What do i need to do to fly legally in Italy with my DJI mini 2?

    Reply

    • Rui, our understanding is that your EU operator code and registration will be valid in Italy (or all EASA jurisdictions).

      Reply

  32. I will visit Italy this year, and would like to fly drone for recreational purpose. My questions are:

    1: I already sent application to register as UAS operator in D-flight website.

    2: Do I also need to register my drone?

    3: I passed recreational drone flight test in USA, do I need to take such test for
    flying drone in Italy? if yes, can I get a website to take this test online?

    4: Must I need to get liability insurance to fly drone in Italy? Some website says
    that this insurance is not compulsory.

    Thank you for letting me know

    Reply

    • 2. Operators are required to be registered, not drones.
      3. Yes, please see the section for foreign operator above.
      4. Our understanding is that Liability insurance is always required.

      When in doubt, please contact the regulator directly using the links provided above.

      Reply

      • Will it be correct to say that at least until 31-Dec-2022, if the Drone is less 250g, no pilot training or exam is necessary for Category A1 / A3?

        Reply

        • We don’t expect any changes coming in the regulations, but they can occur at any time. Keep checking

          Reply

  33. I’m going to be going to Italy in May and I do plan on bringing my drone, after registering it and taking the drone course to use it recreationaly, I’m wondering if there a special map that shows you where you can fly it along with absolute no fly zones. thanks

    Reply

    • David:
      As part of the OPEN category, registration is compulsory for operators if:
      1. UAS that have a mass of 250 g or more;
      2. UAS that have a mass of less than 250 g but are able to operate at speeds greater than 90km, or are equipped with a camera or a microphone, if these UAS are NOT toys
      * A UAS is a toy when a manufacturer intends it for children under the age of 14 and meets the minimum safety criteria required to be so named.

      Reply

  35. I will be visiting Italy in May. I am from the US and my drone is less than 250 grams. I fly it for recreation only. What do I need to do to fly this drone legally in Italy?

    Reply

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