Become a certified drone pilot
Structured training for drone pilots. Choose your licence based on your level and goals. Official AESA certifications, valid throughout the European Union.
Which drone licence do I need?
If you fly a drone with a camera — or one weighing more than 250 g — you need an official licence recognised by AESA, the Spanish aviation authority. Which one you need depends on what you want to do: fly for fun, operate close to people, work in urban areas, or run professional operations in the specific category.
Below are the five licences available, from entry level to professional, so you can pick yours.
Getting Started
The mandatory entry-level certificate for flying camera drones. 100% online exam.
Fly closer to people and in urban environments. Requires a prior A1/A3.
Both open-category licences in a single process and at the best price.
Professional
Professional certification to operate in the specific category under European standard scenarios.
Qualification for aeronautical radiocommunications in controlled airspace.
Why get your licence with Vister?
- All official AESA licences, recognised throughout the European Union
- Fully online processes, with exams you take from home (except STS flight practice)
- A clear path: we tell you which licence you need before moving to the next one
- Qualified instructors and flight bases in Mallorca, Tarragona, Madrid and Córdoba for flight practice
Compare the drone licences
Not sure which one you need? Compare at a glance what each certification allows and choose yours.
| Licence | Level | Max. drone weight | Where you can fly | Prerequisite | Exam | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A1/A3 | Getting started | Up to 25 kg | Away from people | None | Online (40 questions) | €150 | View course → |
| A2 | Intermediate | Up to 4 kg | Close to people | A1/A3 | Online with webcam (30 questions) | €180 | View course → |
| A1/A3 + A2 Pack | Getting started + Intermediate | Up to 25 kg / 4 kg | Both scenarios | None | Both exams | €229 | View pack → |
| STS 01/02 | Professional | Class C5 / C6 | Specific category (medium risk) | A1/A3 (A2 credited) | AESA theory + practical | €449 | View course → |
| UAS Radio Operator | Professional | — | Controlled airspace | A1/A3 | AESA theory + practical | €199 | View course → |
Not sure which licence you need?
Tell us what you want to do with your drone and we’ll advise you with no obligation.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a licence for any drone?
If your drone weighs less than 250 g and has no camera, you can fly without a licence. In any other case you need at least the A1/A3 licence.
Where do I start if I have never flown a drone?
With the A1/A3 licence. It is the entry requirement for all the others.
What is the difference between a drone licence, a permit and a certificate?
They are the same document — different everyday names for the official UAS pilot certificate issued once you pass the corresponding AESA exam.
Are the licences valid across Spain and Europe?
Yes. All of them are based on EASA regulations and are valid in any European Union country.
Can I take the course in English?
Yes. Course materials and instructor support are available in English, and the official AESA exam can be taken from anywhere in the EU.
