Drone laws in Ireland (2026)

Last reviewed: 13 October 2026

In short: Ireland applies the EU drone rules, run by the Irish Aviation Authority. Operators of drones over 250 g, or with a camera or sensor, register with the IAA (age 16 or over) and pilots complete online training. Direct remote ID is required for C1, C2, C3, C5 and C6 drones.

RuleWhat applies
Operator registrationRecreational flying (open category)Operator registration with the IAA is required if the drone weighs more than 250 g or has a camera or other sensor able to detect personal data. Toy drones (intended for children under 14) are exempt. The operator ID must be shown on the drone and uploaded into its direct remote ID. Registration is valid for two years. [1]
Operator registration feeRecreational flying (open category)€41.00 per 2 years [2]
Minimum age to register as operatorRecreational flying (open category)16 years [1]
Pilot competencyRecreational flying (open category)Online training with proof of competency (MySRS) allows flying in subcategories A1 and A3; it must be renewed every five years. Subcategory A2, or the specific category, needs a separate remote pilot competency certificate from a drone training organisation. [3]
Liability insuranceDrones of 20 kg or moreYes [4]
Liability insuranceRecreational flying (open category); Drones under 20 kgNo [4]
Minimum age to fly⚠ Not yet verified
Maximum heightRecreational flying (open category)120 m [4]
Remote IDRecreational flying (open category)Direct remote ID has been required since 1 January 2024 for drones with a C1, C2, C3, C5 or C6 class label, and for all drones used in the specific category. Legacy drones (no class label, placed on the market before 1 January 2024) may be exempt when operated under Article 20 of Regulation (EU) 2019/947. The operator registration number is uploaded into the system. [5]
EU class-marked dronesRecreational flying (open category)⚠ Not yet verified

Notes

  • The IAA schedule of charges for 2026 lists the operator registration at EUR 41 for two years.
  • A parent or guardian registers as the operator on behalf of a younger pilot and must train and supervise them.
  • Insurance is required for other uses (for example commercial). The IAA recommends third-party insurance also for lighter drones.
  • The IAA says aviation regulation sets no minimum age for operating a drone. The operator must be 16 or registered by a parent or guardian.
  • The IAA pages read did not state how EU class marks are treated beyond the EU rules.

Sources

  1. Irish Aviation Authority (IAA): Registration (consulted 13 October 2026) · all sources
  2. Irish Aviation Authority (IAA): IAA Schedule of Charges - Schedule 6 - Unmanned Aircraft Systems (effective 1 January 2026) (consulted 13 October 2026) · all sources
  3. Irish Aviation Authority (IAA): Drone Training - Remote Pilot Competency (consulted 13 October 2026) · all sources
  4. Irish Aviation Authority (IAA): Safety & Regulations (consulted 13 October 2026) · all sources
  5. Irish Aviation Authority (IAA): UAS Advisory Memorandum UAM 014 (Issue 2) - Guidance on Direct Remote ID (consulted 13 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.