KretFPV
Laws & regulations

Know the rules before you fly.

FPV flying is regulated in nearly every country. The rules below are summaries — always check your national aviation authority before you fly. Regulations change, and your liability does not.

By country

Regional regulations

🇪🇺

Region

European Union (EASA)

  • All drones over 250 g require pilot registration with the national CAA.
  • Open category A1 (< 250 g) can be flown over uninvolved people (not crowds).
  • Open category A3 (most freestyle 5") requires 150 m from people, buildings, and infrastructure.
  • FPV is allowed in A3 with a spotter who maintains visual line of sight on the drone.
  • C-class markings (C0–C4) define what category a drone can be flown in.
🇺🇸

Region

United States (FAA)

  • Recreational pilots must pass the free TRUST exam and carry proof.
  • Drones over 250 g must be registered with the FAA ($5, valid 3 years).
  • Remote ID required since September 2023 — either built-in or with a broadcast module.
  • FPV requires a visual observer who can see the drone unaided at all times.
  • Part 107 license required for any commercial use.
  • Check LAANC apps before flying near controlled airspace.
🇬🇧

Region

United Kingdom (CAA)

  • Operator ID required (£11.04/year) for drones with a camera or > 250 g.
  • Flyer ID required after passing a free online theory test.
  • Open A3 category requires 150 m from people and built-up areas.
  • FPV needs a competent observer at all times.
🇨🇦

Region

Canada (Transport Canada)

  • Basic / Advanced pilot certificate required for drones 250 g – 25 kg.
  • Register every drone with Transport Canada; mark the registration number on the airframe.
  • FPV requires a spotter maintaining visual line of sight.
  • Stay 30 m+ from bystanders (Basic) or follow Advanced ops requirements.
🇦🇺

Region

Australia (CASA)

  • Drones under 250 g can be flown recreationally with few restrictions.
  • Over 250 g requires pilot registration via myCASA portal.
  • FPV legal only with a CASA-approved observer in line of sight.
  • 30 m+ from people, 5.5 km from aerodromes by default.

Universal rules

Wherever you fly

Common-sense, common-law

  • Never fly over crowds or moving traffic.
  • Maintain 5 km / 3 mi separation from active airports unless authorized.
  • Yield right of way to all manned aircraft — descend immediately if one approaches.
  • Daylight only, unless your country and equipment allow night ops with strobes.
  • Respect private property and obtain permission where needed.
  • Insurance is cheap and worth it — many EU countries require it.

Disclaimer: The summaries above are informational and may not be up to date. Always consult your national aviation authority (EASA, FAA, CAA, Transport Canada, CASA, etc.) before flying, and consider drone-specific liability insurance — which is mandatory in many EU countries.