How to Get Drone License in India

Drones are transforming industries across India, from agriculture and logistics to filmmaking and security. As they become more common, getting a drone license isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s the key to flying safely and responsibly. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, understanding the licensing process is crucial. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—how to get a drone license, register your drone, become a certified pilot, explore drone usages, and clear up any doubts you might have.

Usages of Drones in India

Drones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), are becoming very useful in India. They are small flying machines controlled by a remote or computer, and they can be used for many different purposes. Let’s look at some of the ways drones are helping India.

1. Agriculture

Farmers in India use drones to check their crops, spray fertilizers, and even water their fields. Drones can fly over large farms quickly, saving time and effort. They help farmers know which part of the farm needs more care, making farming more efficient.

2. Delivery Services

Companies are now testing drones to deliver medicines, food, and other small items. This is very helpful in remote areas where it is difficult to send goods quickly. In the future, drones might be used to deliver packages to people’s homes.

3. Disaster Management

During floods, earthquakes, or other disasters, drones help in rescue operations. They can fly over affected areas to find people who need help and send important information to rescue teams. Drones are also used to drop food and medical supplies in areas where people are stuck.

4. Security and Surveillance

The police and military use drones to keep an eye on large crowds, borders, and sensitive locations. Drones help in spotting dangers from a distance and assist in making quick decisions to keep people safe.

5. Photography and Filmmaking

Drones have changed the way photos and videos are captured. Filmmakers use them to take amazing shots from the sky, which were earlier possible only with helicopters. Drones are also used in weddings, real estate promotions, and sports events to get beautiful aerial views.

6. Traffic Management

In big cities, drones help in monitoring traffic. They can check which roads are busy and help authorities manage traffic better. This reduces traffic jams and makes travel smoother.

7. Wildlife Conservation

Drones are used to protect forests and animals. They help track the movement of wild animals and catch poachers (illegal hunters). This helps in saving endangered species and keeping forests safe.

Steps to Get Drone License in India

In India, drone operations are regulated by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) under the Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR). If you plan to use drones for commercial or professional purposes, you must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC). Every hobbyists need a license. Following the right steps ensures you can fly without legal troubles.

Enroll in DGCA-certified Aviation School

To enroll in this program, you must register with a DGCA-certified aviation school. The training follows guidelines set under the Aircraft Rules, 1934, ensuring that every drone operator is equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills.

Complete Training:

Before you can fly a drone, the DGCA requires you to undergo proper training.This rule isn’t just a formality—it’s in place to ensure safety and reduce risks.The Ministry of Civil Aviation has set guidelines covering both technical and theoretical aspects of drone operation.Whether you’re using a drone for personal or commercial purposes, proper training is essential.This training also prepares pilots to handle emergencies and system failures effectively.

Here’s what the training covers:

1. Radio Telephony – Understanding communication protocols with air traffic control.
   
2. Flight Planning & ATC Procedures – Learning how to plan flights and navigate controlled airspace.
   
3. Aviation Meteorology – Gaining insights into weather conditions that can impact drone flights.
   
4. Aerodynamics – Understanding how drones move and respond to different conditions.
   
5. Air Navigation – Learning to navigate efficiently and safely.
   

Pass Medical Examination: 

Ensure you meet DGCA’s health requirements.

Obtain RPC: 

After completing training, apply for your Remote Pilot Certificate through the DigitalSky platform.

Steps to Register Your Drone:

1. Create an Account: Sign up on the DigitalSky platform.
2. Fill Out Form D-2: Provide details such as drone type, model number, serial number, and owner credentials.
3. Application Verification: Wait for DGCA approval.
4. Receive UIN: Mark this number visibly on your drone.

Additionally, ensure your drone complies with the “No Permission, No Takeoff” (NPNT) protocol by installing necessary software.

Once that’s done, you’ll need to install the NPNT (No Permission, No Takeoff) app on your mobile device. Every time you plan a flight, you must request permission through the app. The NPNT system will then approve or deny your request based on regulations.

This process is crucial for ensuring public safety, as it helps distinguish authorized drone operations from unauthorized ones. If a drone doesn’t have a digital permit, it simply won’t be allowed to take off.

What is NPNT?

The NPNT app is an officially approved system by the government, created to regulate drone operations across India.. It connects users with the Ministry of Civil Aviation to ensure safe and authorized flights. Before every takeoff, the app checks whether the drone meets all necessary conditions and grants or denies permission accordingly.

This system plays a key role in various commercial and operational activities, such as product deliveries, content creation for bloggers and YouTubers, emergency rescue missions, and transporting critical medical supplies. If your request is denied, you must comply with the decision and wait for approval.

Drone operators can easily install the NPNT app on their compatible devices, ensuring they can request flight permissions quickly and conveniently whenever required.

References:

1. FlywithGati
2. Digital sky