Drones are no longer just toys or cool gadgets. They’re playing a significant role in transforming industries across the globe, and India is no exception. 

As of July 2024, India had approximately 16,000 certified drone pilots and 13,000 registered drones, with these numbers continuing to rise steadily.

This growth highlights the increasing demand for skilled drone pilots. These professionals are needed to operate sophisticated machines across a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, construction, filmmaking, logistics, and more. 

The drone service industry in India is booming, and obtaining a drone license is the key to unlocking a wide array of opportunities. 

To better understand the drone industry and the licensing process, it's important to first familiarise yourself with the different categories of drones. You should also be aware of the certification requirements.

Categories and Certification of Drones

Each category has its regulations to ensure responsible flight, particularly in commercial and industrial settings. Knowing where your drone fits will help you navigate the necessary paperwork, adhere to safety protocols, and stay compliant with aviation laws.:

Having explored drone categories and certifications, it's now crucial to understand why a drone license is necessary. Let’s dive into the reasons behind this need.

Why do you need a license? 

A drone license is a commitment to safety, legality, and professionalism. For those looking to operate drones commercially, having a license is essential to ensure compliance with regulations, reduce risks, and build credibility in the industry. 

Here’s why obtaining a drone license should be a priority for every operator.

1. Safety: A license ensures the operator is trained and equipped with the skills to fly a drone safely, reducing the risk of accidents.

2. Legality: Flying a drone without a license is illegal and could result in penalties, fines, or criminal charges.

3. Compliance: A license guarantees the operator is familiar with regulations, including airspace restrictions and altitude limits, ensuring responsible operation.

4. Professionalism: Holding a license enhances credibility, showing clients and peers that you’re committed to safety and legal standards.

5. Access to Controlled Airspace: Certain areas require special permissions to fly, which are often granted to licensed operators.

6. Trust and Credibility: A license signals your commitment to safe, legal flying, fostering trust with clients and stakeholders.

Now that we've covered the importance of a drone license, let's examine the eligibility criteria set by the DGCA. 

What Are the Eligibility Criteria for Drone Pilots in India?

Before diving into the process of obtaining a drone license in India, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria set by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

To become a certified drone pilot, there are several eligibility requirements you must meet:

• Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old. This ensures applicants have the maturity and responsibility needed for safe drone operation.

• Educational Requirement: The minimum requirement is the completion of 10th grade (or an equivalent examination). This ensures that drone pilots possess the necessary literacy and numeracy skills to understand operational instructions and safety guidelines.

• Medical Examination: A medical examination is required to confirm that you are physically fit to operate a drone. The examination must be conducted by a DGCA-approved medical professional and typically includes vision checks and general health evaluations. Ensuring good physical health is essential for safe flight operations.

Once you meet the eligibility requirements, the next step is to gather the necessary documents for your application. Ensuring all documents are complete will help avoid delays in the process.

Documents Required for Application:

• Proof of Identity: You will need to provide a valid form of identity, such as:

  • Aadhaar Card

  • Voter ID

  • Driving License

  • Passport

These documents serve to:

• Confirm your identity

• Verify your age, which is essential for determining eligibility for a drone license.

• Proof of Address: Along with identity proof, you must provide a document confirming your address. Acceptable forms of address proof include:

  • Utility bills (e.g., electricity, water, or gas bills)

  • Bank statements

  • Official government-issued documents

This step helps confirm your place of residence as part of the application process.

• Third-Party Liability Insurance: It is mandatory to have third-party liability insurance when applying for a drone license. This insurance protects you against potential damages caused by your drone during operations. You will need to provide proof of insurance to demonstrate that you are committed to responsible flying practices.

With the eligibility criteria in place, the next step is to understand the drone flying training process. Proper training is key to ensuring you're fully equipped to fly safely and efficiently in the sky.

Drone Flying Training Process

The training process is essential to becoming a certified drone pilot and is mandated by the DGCA under the Aircraft Rules, 1934. 

This ensures that all drone operators are properly trained to minimise risks and ensure safe operations in the airspace.

Training Duration:

The duration of the training may vary depending on the training organisation, but it typically ranges from 5 to 7 days.

Training Providers:

To be eligible for a drone license, training must be completed through a DGCA-approved Remote Pilot Training Organisation (RPTO). These organisations provide a structured and regulated training program that meets all DGCA requirements.

Leher offers a comprehensive Drone Partner Program for those seeking additional support. The program provides training, financial support, and access to a platform connecting drone operators with farmers for services like crop spraying. 

This partnership ensures that entrepreneurs are not only trained but also have the tools and opportunities to succeed in the growing drone service industry.

Remote Pilot License (RPL)

The Remote Pilot License (RPL) is a mandatory certification for anyone wishing to operate drones above 200 feet. 

This license is essential for both commercial and advanced drone operations, ensuring that pilots are trained and qualified to handle drones in controlled airspace safely.

Who Needs the RPL:

• Commercial Pilots: If you wish to operate drones for commercial purposes such as aerial surveys, photography, or deliveries, you must obtain the RPL.

• Hobbyists: Drone enthusiasts wishing to fly above 200 feet for personal use also need this license.

• Individuals with a Private Pilot License (PPL): Those with a PPL are eligible to apply for the RPL to extend their qualifications to drones.

• Military Personnel: Some military personnel who intend to fly drones for civilian purposes may also require an RPL.

The RPL is valid for 10 years, allowing you to legally fly drones within the allowed airspace for commercial or personal use.

Application Process for Remote Pilot Licence

Obtaining your Remote Pilot License (RPL) requires a series of steps to ensure that you have met all the necessary training, security, and regulatory requirements.

Steps:

• Enroll in a DGCA-Approved RPTO: Choose an authorized RPTO and complete a 5-day training program, covering drone laws, aerodynamics, and flight operations.

• RPTO Handles Application: After training, the RPTO submits your application to the DGCA, including required documents (medical certificate, educational proof, etc.).

• Practical and Simulator Tests: The RPTO conducts the necessary flight tests to assess your skills.

• DGCA Review & License Issuance: The DGCA reviews your application and issues the RPL if everything is in order.

• Receive Your License: The RPL is valid for 5 years and allows you to legally operate drones commercially.

Drone Registration Process in India

To legally operate a drone in India, registration is mandatory for all drones except Nano drones used for personal purposes. 

The registration process is facilitated through the Digital Sky Platform, an initiative by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to streamline drone operations and ensure safety.

Steps for Drone Registration:

As a drone buyer, the process is simplified for you since the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) handles the registration on your behalf.

1. Purchase the Drone:

   • Once you buy the drone from an authorized OEM or retailer, they will initiate the registration process for you.

2. Transfer of UIN (Unique Identification Number):

   • The OEM will handle the registration and transfer the Unique Identification Number (UIN) to your name.

   • The UIN is essential for legally operating the drone in India and must be marked on the drone before use.

3. No Need for Additional Fees or Registration:

   • As a buyer, you do not need to pay any fees or go through the registration process yourself. The OEM will cover the costs related to the UIN registration.

4. Ensure the UIN is Marked on the Drone:

   • Once the UIN is transferred to you, ensure that it is clearly marked on your drone. This is a requirement for legal operation.

Demand for Drone Pilots in India

As drones become integral to sectors like agriculture, infrastructure, and logistics, the demand for skilled drone pilots in India is rapidly increasing. In agriculture, drones are revolutionizing farming by facilitating efficient crop management, including pesticide spraying and crop monitoring. 

Initiatives like ‘Drone Didis’ in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh are empowering women in rural communities. 

These initiatives are not only improving productivity but also creating exciting career opportunities for drone pilots in rural and urban regions alike.

Beyond agriculture, drones are being widely used for infrastructure inspections, deliveries, and surveillance, opening doors to jobs in sectors like construction, power, and logistics. The government’s push for training through various schemes is further fueling this growth. 

Certified drone pilots can earn competitive salaries, with those working in agriculture reporting earnings of up to ₹3,38,500 in just 10 months. 

This rising demand for trained drone operators is creating a promising career path with diverse opportunities across India.

How Can Leher’s Drone Partner Program Help?

As the demand for drone pilots grows, particularly in the agriculture sector, Leher’s Drone Partner Program offers a unique opportunity for aspiring pilots to enter this booming industry. Leher specialises in agricultural drones and provides the following benefits:

• Comprehensive Training:  Leher offers specialised training for agricultural drone operations, ensuring you have the skills needed to succeed.

• Financial Support: The program provides financial assistance, making it easier for you to get started and invest in the necessary equipment.

• Platform Access: Leher connects drone operators with farmers in need of services like crop spraying, monitoring, and other agricultural applications.

• Industry Expertise: Leher’s knowledge and experience in the agricultural drone sector equip you with the tools to meet the rising demand for drone services in farming.

• Networking Opportunities: By joining the program, you’ll become part of a growing network of agricultural drone professionals, opening doors to numerous job opportunities.

Fly high, farm smart – join Leher’s Drone Partner Program today!

For further inquires or more information , fee free to Contact Us. we're here to help you get Started on your journey as an agricultural drone pilot!