EU Regulation 2019/947 divides drone operations into three categories. The official guide from the Romanian Ministry of Internal Affairs (Guide for the use of civil registered drones) explains them for pilots in Romania.

Open category

Most recreational pilots operate here. Per the MoI guide, you do not need prior operating authorisation if:

  • the drone is in classes C0–C4 or is privately built;
  • MTOM is under 25 kg;
  • you maintain VLOS (visual contact), maximum 120 m above ground;
  • you respect distances from people and do not fly over assemblies;
  • you do not carry dangerous goods or drop material.

Subcategories A1, A2 and A3 detail proximity to people — see the A1/A3 vs A2 guide and C0–C4 classification.

Specific category

If the operation exceeds open category limits (BVLOS, altitude, proximity, payload, etc.), you need:

  • an operating authorisation from AACR, or
  • a declaration for a standard scenario (without full authorisation), or
  • a LUC (Light UAS Operator Certificate) with matching privileges.

Risk assessment and mitigation measures are submitted to the competent authority.

Certified category

High-risk operations: over assemblies (UAS ≥ 3 m), carrying people, dangerous goods, or when AACR decides risk cannot be mitigated without UAS, operator certification and, where applicable, remote pilot licence.

What remains mandatory regardless of category

  • checking the UAS map and NOTAMs at your point and time;
  • MoD clearance where law or the map requires it (e.g. filming, Bucharest);
  • compliance with HG 859/2021 offences — see the fines table.

Source

Information is taken from the Guide for the use of civil registered drones (MoI, November 2025). Text adapted by Drone Log — check the current version on the MoI website and AACR notices.