Citizens can now become drone pilots with any government-issued identity and address proof, says Centre

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has said that citizens can now become drone pilots with any government-issued identity and address proof. The Ministry has notified the new Drone (Amendment) Rules 2023 for drone pilots.

After the amendment, it has now been made clear that a government-issued proof of identity and a government-issued proof of address like Voter ID, Ration Card or Driving License can now be accepted to apply for a Remote Pilot Certificate if the drone pilot does not have a passport.

The Ministry added that the prerequisite of having a passport was becoming a hurdle for aspiring drone pilots and this effort is to further liberalise, promote and facilitate drone operations across the country and make India a global drone hub by 2030. The rule is effective from the 27th of last month.