Faut-il un permis pour un drone de moins de 250 g en France ? (2026)
Non. In France, there is no "drone license" to obtain for a recreational device weighing less than 250 grams. The A1/A3 online training is not mandatory for a C0 class drone. However, operator registration on AlphaTango becomes mandatory as soon as the drone is equipped with a camera — which is the case for almost all models sold today. It's free and takes about ten minutes.
Here's what's mandatory, what's not, and the flight rules that apply regardless of the device's weight.
Do you need to register your drone under 250 g?
Two different, often confused, registrations must be distinguished.
1. Operator registration (you)
Mandatory on the AlphaTango platform for all classes C1 to C4, and for class C0 — those under 250 g — only if the drone is equipped with a camera. An operator number in the format "FRA" followed by 13 characters is issued to you. It must be affixed to the device.
2. Aircraft registration (the drone)
Mandatory with the DGAC from 800 grams. Below this, no aircraft registration is required. A DJI Mini 3 (249 g), a DJI Neo 2 (151 g), or a Potensic ATOM SE are therefore not subject to this obligation.
Failure to register is punishable by a fine of 750 €.
Is online training mandatory?
For a C0 class drone, it is recommended but not mandatory. For classes C1, C2, C3, and C4, the "Open category A1/A3" training is mandatory: a 40-question test, 75% correct answers required, a certificate valid for 5 years. The absence of a certificate when required is punishable by a fine of 450 €.
Our honest opinion: even when not mandatory, the training is free and lasts an hour. It will help you avoid half of beginner mistakes.
What flight rules apply to a 150-gram drone?
The same as for a 900-gram drone, with a few nuances. Lighter weight does not exempt from these points:
| Rule | Limit |
|---|---|
| Maximum flight height | 120 meters |
| Minimum remote pilot age | 14 years old |
| Night flight | Forbidden |
| Beyond visual line of sight flight | Forbidden in open category |
| Overflying gatherings of people | Always forbidden |
| Public space in urban areas | Forbidden |
The real advantage of sub-250 g: overflying people
This is where the C0 class concretely changes things. In subcategory A1, a drone under 250g can overfly isolated people – this is tolerated, respecting a safe distance. With a C2 class drone, 5 meters are required in low-speed mode or 30 meters in normal mode. With a C3 or C4, 150 meters from people and total prohibition of overflying.
Overflying a gathering of people, however, is never allowed, regardless of weight.
[PHOTO/VIDEO OF JORGE: screenshot of your own AlphaTango account with the operator number blurred, or photo of the FRA label glued to one of your drones. This is proof that you did it yourself, and no one else can publish it.]
Which models remain under the 250g mark?
- DJI Neo 2 — 499 €: 151 g, full propeller guards, C0 classified. The lightest with real stabilization.
- Potensic ATOM SE — 349.90 €: under 249 g, GPS, automatic return, single-axis gimbal.
- DJI Mini 3 — 549 €: 249 g, 4K HDR, 38 minutes of battery life.
If your budget is closer to 100 €, our comparison First drone under 100 €: what you really get explains what truly changes at this price point.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a drone gifted to a child concerned?
The minimum age for a remote pilot in the open category is 14 years old. Below that, the child can fly under the direct supervision of an adult registered as an operator, who remains responsible.
Where can I check if I can fly in a specific location?
On the map of flight restrictions for recreational drones published by the DGAC via Géoportail. Areas around airports, military sites, power plants, and certain protected natural areas are prohibited.
Is C0 marking mandatory on the drone?
New drones placed on the European market must bear their class label. A device without class marking is treated as a "legacy" drone, with rules based on its weight.
Can I film people with my drone?
The right to image and respect for privacy fully apply. Filming private property or identifiable people without permission can expose you to prosecution, regardless of aviation regulations.
Are these rules the same throughout the European Union?
The EASA framework is common to the entire EU, but each State adds its own national restrictions — particularly on urban flight. Always check local rules before flying abroad.
Information verified in August 2026 with service-public.gouv.fr and the Ministry of Ecological Transition. Regulations evolve: check the update date before relying on an article, including this one.