Getting certified to fly commercially: what you actually need

The single biggest thing that decides how much work you can take on is your certification, because it sets where and how close to people you can legally fly. It varies by country, so always check your own rules first (the drone laws hub has the detail per country).

The short version in the two biggest markets here:

• UK: register for an Operator ID and take the free Flyer ID test. For most paid work, add an A2 Certificate of Competency (to fly closer to uninvolved people), or a GVC or RPC plus an Operational Authorisation for Specific-category work.

• US: the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is the standard for commercial flying.

Most other countries follow the same shape: a registration plus a competency certificate. There is a fuller walk-through in how to become a freelance drone pilot.

Certified and flying somewhere not covered above? Share what the process was like where you are, it helps other pilots.