If you want to go pro and prove your skills, then you need to get certified and get a license
Anybody can buy a drone today and fly (with limits) – no license or training required.
It’s extremely easy to get into unmanned aerial vehicles and remotely piloted aircraft as a hobby because our drone laws in the Philippines are more lenient and generous than most other countries.
But if you want to get serious and promote yourself as a skilled professional pilot and operator, then you need to get certified.
What are the drone licenses and certificates in the Philippines?
Note that there is no formal “drone pilot license” in the Philippines. Instead, we have RPAS Certificates issued by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).
There are currently 3 different certificates or “licenses” you can get:
RPAS Controller Certificate
This certificate is what you need to become a licensed UAV professional pilot.
The Civil Aviation of the Philippines (CAAP) awards this to any individual who completes formal drone pilot and safety training, and passes their knowledge and flight skills test.
RPAS Registration Certificate
This is the certificate you get when you register your aircraft and UAVs with the CAAP.
If you see a drone with big identification stickers and numbers like RP-0103819, that means the owner has registered that drone with the authorities. More info here.
RPAS Operator Certificate
This authorizes businesses and organizations to provide commercial drone services by the CAAP, like aerial photography, drone survey mapping, pilot training courses, and agricultural surveys.
You need this if you want to start your own business and earn money flying drones.
How do I apply for the RPAS Controller Certificate and become a licensed pilot?
The process to get your drone pilot license is actually easy and simple, but it takes time. Processing is only 5 days, but the whole process from start to finish might take 1-3 weeks from start to finish because you need to complete training, pass 2 exams, and make multiple visits to the CAAP office.
Here’s our step by step infographic guide to help you get your RPAS Controller Certificate:
Philippine Drone Network Guide to Drone Licenses
1. Complete training from an authorized drone operator in the Philippines and ask for a formal training certificate
- Make sure your trainer and their organization is recognized by the CAAP to provide commercial services. Ask them about their certifications.
- Training should cover modern drone applications, safety and emergency procedures, flight techniques, compliance with local laws and regulations, and drone mechanics
- It should include at least 5 hours of hands-on flight time
The Philippine Drone Network provides certified drone training on demand through our CAAP-authorized providers. Click here to inquire and get notified when public training opens again, or to schedule a private session for yourself or your group.
2. Fill out the CAAP Airman Personal License Form (also known as Form 542)
Download the form here from the CAAP website.
3. Print out the technical specifications and photos of your drone or UAV
Technical specifications can typically be found in your drone’s manual or downloaded from the manufacturer’s website (ex: DJI website).
Print at least 4 photos: top view, bottom view, side view, and front view.
4. Go to the CAAP office and submit your documents in person to the Licensing and Certification Department (LCD)
Compile your training certificate, filled out form, technical specifications, and photos in a folder to make it easy to check.
- Pay the necessary application fees (there is a fee for the knowledge test, skills test, and an application processing fee – get the latest drone certificate costs from the CAAP)
- The CAAP office is located at OLD MIA Road in Pasay City. You can contact them at [email protected] or +63 2 7944-2142 or 7944-2143
When you submit your documents, you will get a Routing Slip from the licensing staff. They are extremely helpful and will guide you through the next steps that includes taking the knowledge exam.
5. Pass the knowledge exam and schedule a day for your skills test
After you pass the written test, you will be given a Knowledge Test Report. Submit this report to get yout Skills Test Permit and schedule.
6. Show up on your scheduled day and pass the Skills Test.
Bring the same drone that you submitted specifications and photos of in step #3.
7. Apply for your RPAS Controller Certificate and wait 5 days for processing
After you pass both tests, return to the CAAP and bring the following to formally apply for your drone license certification:
- Knowledge Exam and Skills Test results
- 2 1×1 pictures
You can pick up your certificate after 5 working days. You are now a licensed drone pilot!
How much does the RPA Controller Certificate cost?
Expect to pay at least P3,370 for your drone certificate. There are fees you need to pay as you go through the process of getting certified as a drone pilot. This includes an exam fee, report fee, skills test fee, and application fee.
Please call the CAAP to get the latest amount because the costs below change from time to time:
- Exam fee – P230
- Test Report Fee – P140
- Application Fee – P3360
- Skills Test Fee – Get from CAAP
What are the benefits of getting certified as a pilot?
We always recommend all drone hobbyists to register with the CAAP and get their RPAS Controller Certificate. The advantages include:
- Get flight permits much easier in cities and provinces with local regulations that control who can fly or operate drones (ex: Boracay Island)
- Gain confidence in your skills by learning safety and emergency procedures
- Makes you understand the processes of the CAAP
- Helps you fulfill requirements to get the RPAS Operator Certificate so you can provide commercial services like aerial photography and drone surveys
- Helps you fill requirements to get the RPAS Registration Certificate so you can register your equipment and operate larger drones
May I use this infographic in my own website, social media, or publication?
Yes. You may display this infographic anywhere as long as you give proper credit.
Simply mention that this infographic was created by the Philippine Drone Network, and include a link to our website at https://philippinedronenetwork.com.ph.
Have questions?
We’re happy to help if you need extra clarifications or guidance. Leave a comment on this page or send us an email at [email protected].
You can also contact the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippine directly at +63 2 7944-2142 or 7944-2143.
Comments (96)
Wich drone we need to get a license ? Do i need to get a license for my dji mavic 2?
Hi Michael. You can get a license for the mavic 2, but it’s not required unless you plan to offer commercial services.
Good day. I only need RPAS Registration Certificate for my Drones since I am no commercial use- I only do it for hobby and recreation.
What to do and where to go to secure RPAS REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE? Can I insist to CAAP even if my drones are less than 7kg of weight to issue RPAS Registration Certificate?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Hi Jundenie. Yes you can register your drone regardless of size. We have a guide on how to do that here: https://philippinedronenetwork.com.ph/drone-industry-news/philippine-drone-laws-licenses-and-registration-2022-updated/.
The steps are in the answer to question #15.
kung freelancer na may controller and registration certificates mula caap pwede na magtayo ng business?
Hi Josef. Pwedeng pwede, pero kailangan rin magapply for Operator Certificate kapag may business registration na kayo sa DTI or SEC.
Hello kailangan pa po ba ng license ang drone dji mini 2 nasa 249gms lang po sya.
Hi Janna. Depende yan sa gagawin mo. Nandito ang kasagutan (tingnan ang Question 1): https://philippinedronenetwork.com.ph/drone-industry-news/philippine-drone-laws-licenses-and-registration-2022-updated/
Dji Phantom needs to be registered?
Hi PJ. No you don’t need to register your drone if you’re using it as a hobby/recreationally, and as long as it weighs less than 7kg and you follow the CAAP’s limitations for recreational use.
Pwd malaman scope nung exam? Do we need to review or anything? Thank you
magkno po ang application fees kng mron?
Pwede ninyo tawagan ang CAAP para makuha ang latest application fees bago kayo magpunta sa office nila para magsubmit ng application. Baka kasi magbago ang fees.
Do you have a law or memo from CAAP that a trainer should be certified drone pilot or the organization should have a drone operator certificate?
Hi Berb. Yes, the CAAP has regulations where it says RPAS certificates are required for any person or business who want to provide professional/commercial drone services. This is what section 11.11.4 of the Philippine Civil Aviation Regulations (PCAR) says: “No person may use an RPA in commercial operation unless he or she has obtained an RPA Controller Certificate.” Additionally section 11.11.6.4 says “No person may operate an RPA for commercial operations unless the person holds an RPAS Operator Certificate“. Providing drone training services with fees is a commercial activity which means trainers need to be certified. You can download the entire PCAR document on the CAAP website https://caap.gov.ph/.
Do I still need a certification for an agricultural drone for personal lot usage only?
ilang years valid po ito?
5 years po ang unang certification.
pano po yung mga nasa visayas? san pwde kumuha ng cert
Hi Theo. Sa ngayon ay sa Pasay office lang pwede magapply para sa certificate. Pero pwede mo tawagan ang CAAP at tanungin kung meron silang tauhan sa lalawigan mo na pwede mong pasahan ng requirements.
How much does all of it (tests + licensing) cost?
Hi Joseph. It’s best to call CAAP (their number is in the post) to get their latest application and test fees. They’re very helpful and will answer any questions you might have.
good day marami akong drone 1 phantom 2 advance, 3 phantom 3 pro, 1 dji sparks, 1 mavic mini itong mavic ko lang ang hindi puedeng makalipad sa authorized zone pero yong iba puede lang maka lipad with caution
Is there any SPECIFIC brands that you need in order to be certified for example DJI Mavic or does it also depend on how big and heavy your drone is like more than 500 grams?
Hi Napoleon. You can use any drone brand in your application as long as it is safe to operate. If your drone is heavier than 7kg then you are required to register it and also get an RPAS Registration Certificate which has a different process from the RPAS Controller Certificate.
Hi, ano po yung additional steps from getting RPAS Controller Certificate, then getting RPAS Operator Certificate?
Hi Arthur. Ang infographic dito mismo sa page ang guide para sa Controller Certificate.
Nandito naman ang steps para sa Operator Certificate: https://philippinedronenetwork.com.ph/drone-industry-news/how-to-start-your-drone-business-in-the-philippines-and-get-certified-by-the-caap/
Is it impossible for an individual/freelance content creator to obtain an RPAS Operator Certificate? The requirements specifically ask for an organization. Let’s say you want to monetize a YouTube video, is that a dead end unless you have people to join/form a media group to apply?
Hi Joseph. We recommend individuals to register themselves with DTI (application can be done online) if they want to take on freelance jobs and become a legitimate business. If you’re recording videos for your own use then it isn’t likely to be considered commercial use and doesn’t require certifications as long as you follow the CAAP’s limitations for recreational use.
Is being a certified drone pilot by the FAA in the US can serve as a credential to get the RPAS certifications and to operate commercially a drone here?
Hi Herve. You can apply to the CAAP and have them validate your foreign RPAs controller certificate as long as it is still active.
paano po i pa validate yung aking FAA certified pilot, i have dji mini mavic 3 pro. small drone lang sya, may bayad po ba? at saan pong site i pa validate? salamat po.
Hi Hermie. Kailangan niyo po pumunta sa CAAP mismo para validate ang FAA certificate ninyo. May ibang requirements rin tulad ng pagpakita ng recent flight hours. Pwede niyo tawagan ang CAAP para simulan ang proseso.
UAV / RPAS Controllers (Foreign Controllers):
PCAR 2.13.10 – Validation of Foreign RPA Controller Certificate, License or Authorization.Note: This new provision provides a mechanism for foreign companies that possess a current and existing certificate or authorization from their country to be validated in order to operate in the Philippines.
Hi, I am a OFW and resident in Philippines, I am also a beginner drone operator. I would like to bring home my small drone which is less than 7kgs for a recreational/hobby purposes. Do I not I need a permit or permission letter from CAAP prior arriving in Manila or any provincial airport?
To whom or any personnel (email add.) I can send my inquiry to request a letter in hand to show to our Airport Custom just in case they stop me or either confiscate for bringing my drone in Philippines.
Hi Noel. There’s no need for CAAP clearance to bring in your recreational drone. If you want to be sure and have paperwork to show, you can call CAAP directly at +63 2 7944-2142.
Hi, I wanna know if Certificates or License is needed for DJI Phantom 4 to be used for Aerial Videos and Photos for Construction project of PNR (Railway Project) in City of Sanfernando, Pampanga ?
Hi Randel. If you are a subcontractor for the project or are hired by the construction company to do an aerial survey, then yes your pilot, equipment, and organization need to be certified by the CAAP first.
Got it. Thank you!
Hi! Im a seàferer and resident in iligan city im planning to buy dji mini 2 in singapore airport. Cause my returing home this 30 sep 2021 from peru. Transiting singapore to cebu. Do I not I need a permit or permission letter from CAAP prior arriving in cebu & domestic flight going to my home in iligan City. To whom or any personnel (email add.) I can send my inquiry to request a letter in hand to show to our Airport Custom just in case they stop me or either confiscate for bringing my drone in Philippines.
Hi Eugene. No need for a letter to bring your small drone into the country, but you can also just buy the DJI Mini 2 in the Philippines instead.
Hi, I am located in blue zone (authorization zone) in DJI map and is near the airport. I wanted to fly my drone to look for cellsites’ Line-of-Site and determine the height of antenna I need to deploy. This is for personal use only. Do I need authorization from CAAP to fly at a lower altitude (<30 meters) within my propery perimeter in a subdivision?
Hi Knivez. Yes, otherwise you operate at your own risk of being reported for safety violations.
Hi. I’m a freelancer and I’m planning to use my air 2s drone for wedding photography. Do I need to get a certificate?if yes, What certificate would you suggest? Thank you
Hi Win. As mentioned in the guide, the CAAP requires certifications before you can provide commercial drone services like photography/videography. Start with the RPA Controller and RPA Registration certificate to formalize your skills and equipment. Then once you setup a business entity for DTI or BIR registration, you can apply for the RPA Operator Certificate. On another note, there are many photo/video studios that offer aerial photos for events that don’t have any certifications. These are non-compliant with CAAP regulations and operate at risk of being reported and fined by the CAAP.
Hello, Can anybody take the RPAS certification ? is Visa status a factor ?
thank you
Hi Martin. There are no visa requirements to apply for certification.
Do I need to register a drone that is 249g?
(DJI MINI SE)
Hi Yong. It depends on what you’re using it for. Please read the 1st question on our guide here on Philippine Drone Laws and Certificates to get your answer.
Hi, for Habsun Zino needs to be registered?
Hi Judy. It depends on what you will use your drone for. Please read the 1st question in our guide to Philippine Drone Laws and Certificates here to get your answer.
Hi, if a construction company wishes to fly their own drone for their own survey data and acquisition in their project, do they also need to have their own RPAS operator certificate even if they do not plan to use or offer the drone survey as a service for other companies? Thanks.
Hi Jimuel. The RPA Operator Certificate is not required in that case.
Thank you
I’m a Government Employee and uses drone for documentation and coverage. But out from my work I do also freelance drone aerial coverage.
I just to become a license drone pilot so that I may know more about the regulations and I am coordinated with the aviation authority wherever I launch
the drone like restrictions in some areas like ports and airports. Is there online examination or test because I’m from cagayan de oro city mindanao its difficult to travel to manila to main CAAP.
Thanks.
Hi Jerome. Some parts of the certificate application can now be done with the CAAP, but not all of it because they don’t have enough offices in other airports outside of Manila. You can call or email them directly to make arrangements.
Hi, need po ba license for dji mini 2?
Hi Jhamil. Depende yan kung para saan mo gagamitin ang drone. Ang sagot diyan ay nandito (question #1): https://philippinedronenetwork.com.ph/drone-industry-news/philippine-drone-laws-licenses-and-registration-2021-updated/#one
Hi, i don’t have yet a business for now. Can i get or apply a license now? Thank in advance.
Hi Virgilio. Only the RPA Operator Certificate is exclusive for businesses. You can apply for the other individual certs, the RPA Controller and RPA Registration Certificates.
Do i need to register my Inspire 1? will the second pilot need license as well? if the 2nd one ia controlling the camera gimbal only?
Any drone training facility in central visayas?
Hi Juan. That depends on whether you’re using a drone for commercial or recreational puropses. You can read about it here (see question #1): https://philippinedronenetwork.com.ph/drone-industry-news/philippine-drone-laws-licenses-and-registration-2021-updated/#one
Sir Good Afternoon po, Meaning those three certification is require, kung gagamitin mo ung drone for business purpose? Or ung RPAS operator certificate lng is ok na po?
Hi Jonathan. Kailangan po lahat ng certificates para maging legitimate business.
HI, ask ko lang po need pa din po ba nung three certificates if were going to import drones for commercial purposes? Thank you!
Hi Algene. The 3 RPA certificates are only for operating commercial drones and doesn’t cover rules around importing.
Do we have CAAP accredited Drone Training Center in Cagayan de Oro City
Hi Ceasar. Sorry we don’t have official partners in Cagayan de Oro.
what about zamboanga city, do you have partners here?
Hi Al. The CAAP doesn’t have local offices that accept certificate applications in Zamboanga City, but you can contact them and ask if you can do some of the steps online.
Hi po, kindly ask lang po kung need ng certification yung drone kahit naka issue sa office po namin? Need for Documentation lang ng project namin sa isla.
Hi Ali. Hindi kailangan ng certificate kung hindi pangbusiness. Pero may limitations tulad ng bawal magpalipad sa gabi, bawal sa restricted flight areas, bawal sa mataong lugar, at dapat maliit na drone at mababang lipad lamang (less than 400ft).
Sir do I need to have license for drone when I go to Saudi arabia???
Hi France. Sorry, but you need to look up their local laws. We don’t have experience operating in Saudi Arabia.
kailangan po ba ng license kung under kami sa SUC? staff po ako sa isang university dto sa mindanao.
Hi Juniel. You only need a license or certificate if the activity is for commercial use, or if you plan to fly beyond the limits for recreational drone operation (ex: going above the altitude limit or using large drones above the weight limit), or if you will operate in restricted airspace and other areas where recreational flying is not allowed (ex: above populated areas).
Hello Sir/Ma’am,
How to be a CAAP certified RPA Instructor /Trainer. Please let me know the Procedures.
Thank you
Hi! Process and requirements to be an instructor?
Hi Anthony. There’s no formal process to become a drone instructor, but you need to be certified as an RPA controller with the CAAP and also be part of an organization that has been awarded the RPA Operator Certificate.
Hi i have a fimi x8 se 2022. I am travelling to switzerland. I would like te register my drobe and would like to fly it in switzerland. How do i get my drone license. Thanks.
Hi Aj. You need to research Switzerland’s requirements for drone operation because it changes from country to country.
Hi, I am a government employee and I’m flying a DJI M300 drone for mapping here in Leyte, I would like to seek your advice of how could I apply for RPAS License. Thank you.
Hi Luigy. All the steps are on this guide which means you need to go to Manila to complete the process. But you can also call the CAAP because some of the steps can be done online.
Hello,
I bought a DJI Air 2s last month and was able to have few flights in Manila (Makati, BGC and Manila intramuros). However, most of areas in Metro Manila requires approval from PNP or other authorities such as Ayala Malls etc..
I need to know if your certification and license can allow me to fly the drone anywhere in Manila or Philippines without having to ask the authorities for their approval or formal acknowledgment? Thank you very much!
good day po maam, maam kailangan pa po bang e register ang drone dji mini 2? gagamitin ko po sana sa vlog
Hi Nestor. Depende yan kung saan mo gagamitin. Pakibasa ang aming guide para sa vlogs: https://philippinedronenetwork.com.ph/drone-industry-news/do-i-need-a-drone-license-in-the-philippines-to-shoot-videos-for-my-blog-and-youtube-channel/
I am going to bring my drone over at the airport during my next trip, it’s over 15Kg in weight, it’s a big drone, is there any difficulty to go through customs, they won’t hold it?
If a student is doing his/her thesis and part of it is the collection of data using drone, is it needed that the student be a certified Drone Pilot? Thank you.
Hi Alex. Certification is only required for commercial/business purposes, or if you plan to fly in sites that have additional restrictions like populated areas (highways, schools, cities, etc.). Your thesis falls under casual use which means you are required to follow several limitations like max altitude, day time flying only, and line of sight at all of times.
Hi can I use my DJI Air2S to take videos of rooftops for our solar panel business? Already with consent from our customers for marketing purposes.
Do I need any licenses or certificates to fly my DJI Avata for personal use?
Hi Mike. No need for certificates for casual/hobby use of your drone, but there are limitations and rules you need to follow at all times. Please read questions 1-8 of our guide here: https://philippinedronenetwork.com.ph/drone-industry-news/philippine-drone-laws-licenses-and-registration-2023-updated/
hi po..ano need if mavic 3 po unit for hobby lang
Hi Alver. Basahin niyo po muna yung guide dahil nandun na lahat ng steps.
kailangan po ba e update ang RPAS Controller Certificate kung mag u.upgrade to a more advance drone aside from registering the drone?
Hi Vandom. Most of the time hindi kailangan update unless expired na. Pero kailangan ng additional registration kung oversized or may special purpose ang bagong drone mo.