Drone regulations: where can you use them in 2023?

In this article, you will find useful resources to find out if you can use your drone abroad and in Italy.

In recent years drones (also called UAV, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) have become more affordable and thus very popular. At the same time, however, the number of accidents involving drones has also increased. Governments all around the world have started to impose stricter regulations and, in some cases, even completely banned the use of drones.

Keeping an updated list with all the limitations for every single country is honestly not possible for a single person. This is why several websites have started to collect feedback from photographers all around the world regarding their experiences when using drones.

To simplify this task I created an interactive map using a dataset created by users all around the world. The dataset is constantly updated. You can interact with the map (wait for a few seconds if you don’t see the map down below).

Please note that most of the information on the map is collected by other people and does not necessarily perfectly reflect the legislation of each country. I recommend that you always check the official sites of the various aviation authorities before taking your drone abroad!

General information on the use of Drones abroad

Although drones are increasingly common, there is still a lack of clear legislation in many countries at the moment. Out of more than 200 countries worldwide, about 70 do NOT have a specific law to regulate them.

Contrary to what one might think, only a handful of nations completely ban the use of drones: only 15 nations at the moment. In the list below I have included 39 countries because even though drones are not technically prohibited, obtaining permits is so difficult, especially for those who travel for tourism, that it’s as if drones were actually banned.

Countries where Drones CAN NOT be used or there are severe limitations

This is the list of countries where flying drones is NOT allowed or is difficult to get a permit

Several countries have limitations based on weight (usually under 250 grams the rules are much less strict). That’s why DJI released the Mini 3 which officially weighs only 249g.

What about Italy?

This is the official website where you can find updated information. I have summarized some of the most common questions for those who want to use the drone for recreational purposes in Italy.

Remember that this article, and other similar resources, are only to be taken as a starting point to do further research on the official websites where you will find the correct and updated information.

Another thing to remember is that law often changes even within the same country. In the United States, for example, there are different laws in each state. That is why it is good to do all your research before leaving, to avoid bad surprises or even having your drone confiscated at the airport.

On this page, you can get your A1-A3 and A2 European certificates. These certifications are mandatory if you are planning to fly in Europe. Interestingly it’s now possible to complete the A2 certification (for drones weighing 900g and above) totally online.

If you are interested in learning to fly a drone and how to sell stock footage check out my review of Aerial A to Z.

On this page, you will find my guide on how to sell your photos. Here are some pictures I took with the drone of the beautiful Jacaranda trees in Yunnan, China. Here my drone pictures.