Drone laws in the Netherlands (2026)
Last reviewed: October 8, 2026
In short: The Netherlands applies the EU drone rules. Most drone owners register with the RDW, and pilots need a certificate from age 16.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Operator registration | The drone's owner registers with the RDW and shows the operator number on the drone. Not needed for a drone under 250 g without a camera, or under 250 g with a CE toy marking. [1] |
| Pilot competencyRecreational flying (open category) | Subcategory A2 (C2 drones): A2 certificate. Subcategory A3 (C3 and C4 drones, and C0–C2 drones flown in A3): A1/A3 certificate. [2] |
| Liability insuranceDrones over 20 kg | Yes [1] |
| Liability insuranceDrones up to 20 kg | No [1] |
| Minimum age to fly | 16 years [1] |
| Maximum heightRecreational flying (open category) | 120 m [3] |
| Remote IDRecreational flying (open category) | Required for drones with a C1, C2 or C3 class mark: direct Remote ID must be active and up to date and broadcasts your operator registration number. Not required for C0 or C4 drones. [3] |
Notes
- The certificate requirement for subcategory A1 is still being checked.
- Younger pilots may fly if a certified observer keeps the drone in sight and stays in contact with them.
- Measured from the closest point of the ground. Within 50 m of an artificial obstacle taller than 105 m, you may fly up to 15 m above it if its owner asks for this.
- Drones without a class mark that were sold before January 1, 2024 are not covered by this rule.
Sources
- Ondernemersplein (overheid.nl): Zakelijk gebruik van drones (consulted October 8, 2026) · all sources
- Ministerie van Infrastructuur en Waterstaat (Veilig drone vliegen): In welke categorie vlieg jij? (consulted October 8, 2026) · all sources
- EUR-Lex (Publications Office of the European Union): Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947 on the rules and procedures for the operation of unmanned aircraft (consolidated text 1 May 2025) (consulted October 8, 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.