Europe
Poland
EASA (EU) Regulation — implemented by ULC
Poland applies the EASA standard. The national registration system has moved from the old portal to the new drony.gov.pl (National Drone Information System), managed jointly with PAŃSA.
Free, on drony.gov.pl, for drones ≥250 g or capable of over 80 J of impact energy, or fitted with sensors for personal data.
Free online course for drones ≥250 g, 40-question exam (75% pass threshold), minimum age 16, licence valid for 5 years.
Since 13 November 2025, mandatory third-party liability insurance is required for drones from 250 g to 20 kg.
Zones to avoid
No-fly zones usually follow the same recurring categories (airports, military sites, protected areas, historic centers). For this country: Every flight must be notified through the PANSA system (checkin.pansa.pl); geographic zones defined by PANSA.
Verify officially before flying
Source: ULC — Urząd Lotnictwa Cywilnego (Civil Aviation Office)
Last checked: 2026-09
Go deeper
Why registration exists
Operator registration exists for accountability: if a drone causes an incident or enters a restricted zone, the authority needs to be able to trace it back to whoever was flying it. You usually get an identification number (operator ID) to physically attach to the drone, valid for every drone the same person owns. The cost is often minimal or free, and it applies to visiting tourists too, not just residents. For Poland, the official reference remains ULC — Urząd Lotnictwa Cywilnego (Civil Aviation Office), also via drony.gov.pl / PANSA check-in. Free, on drony.gov.pl, for drones ≥250 g or capable of over 80 J of impact energy, or fitted with sensors for personal data.
How this usually works
In most systems, the pilot license (or "certificate") is a theory exam, often entirely online and free, covering the basics: airspace, safety distances, privacy. It's nothing like a driving license, but it's still a legal requirement. Most systems have more than one level: an entry-level exam for flights further from people and built-up areas, and a more thorough one if you want to fly closer. The certificate is usually valid for a few years before it needs renewing. The exam and certificate are handled by ULC — Urząd Lotnictwa Cywilnego (Civil Aviation Office), also via drony.gov.pl / PANSA check-in. Free online course for drones ≥250 g, 40-question exam (75% pass threshold), minimum age 16, licence valid for 5 years.
Informational content, not legal advice. Zones and rules change constantly: always check the country's official website before every flight.