The drone industry in India is experiencing a “sky-rush.” From spraying crops in Punjab to
surveying massive infrastructure projects in Maharashtra, drones are the new backbone of
Indian industry. But before you take to the skies, there is one non-negotiable step: getting your
Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) from a DGCA-approved institute.
In this guide, we’ll explore why certification matters, what you’ll learn, and how to pick the best
school for your career.
1. What is a DGCA Approved Drone Training Institute?
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is India’s regulatory body for civil aviation.
Any institute teaching you to fly drones must be registered as an authorized Remote Pilot
Training Organization (RPTO).
Training at an unapproved school isn’t just a waste of money—it’s illegal for commercial use.
Only an RPTO can issue the certificate required to get your license on the DigitalSky Platform.
2. Why Choose an Approved Institute?
Legal Compliance
Under the Drone Rules 2021, flying a drone (except the Nano category) for commercial
purposes without a license can lead to heavy fines. An approved institute ensures you stay on
the right side of the law.
Industry-Standard Curriculum
DGCA-approved courses aren’t just about “moving the joysticks.” The 5–7 day intensive
programs cover:
- Air Regulations: Understanding “No Permission-No Takeoff” (NPNT) and flight zones (Green, Yellow, Red).
- Aviation Meteorology: How weather affects your flight.
- Emergency Protocols: What to do during a signal loss or battery failure.
- Simulator & Practical Training: Hours of hands-on flying under expert supervision.
Higher Earning Potential
Certified pilots are in high demand. In 2025, an entry-level DGCA-certified pilot can earn
anywhere from ₹30,000 to ₹80,000 per month, depending on their specialization (e.g.,
Mapping or Cinematography).
3. DGCA Approved Institutes in India (2025)
While the list of training centers is growing rapidly, it is essential to verify an institute’s current
status before enrolling. The government maintains a real-time database of all authorized
Remote Pilot Training Organizations (RPTOs). You can access the official, up-to-date list
directly on the DigitalSky RPTO Portal to find a certified school near you and ensure your
certification will be valid.
4. Eligibility Criteria: Can You Apply?
To enroll in a DGCA-approved drone course, you must meet these basic requirements:
- Age: 18 to 65 years.
- Education: Minimum 10th Standard pass.
- ID Proof: Valid Aadhaar Card linked to a mobile number.
- Medical: A basic medical fitness certificate (as per DGCA standards).
5. How to Choose the Right School?
Don’t just look at the price tag. When comparing institutes, ask these three questions:
- Do they offer placement assistance? Leading schools often have tie-ups with GIS and Agriculture firms.
- What is the trainer-to-student ratio? You want more “stick time” (actual flying) and less waiting in line.
- Is the infrastructure modern? Check if they use the latest Type Certified drones for training.
Conclusion
Investing in a DGCA approved drone training institute is an investment in a future-proof
career. Whether you want to be an entrepreneur or work for a tech giant, the sky is literally the
limit once you have that certificate in hand.