Introduction
If you are thinking to begin drone training in 2025, you are stepping into one of the most rapidly expanding skill sectors in India. As drone deliveries, aerial mapping, agricultural spraying, filmmaking, and surveillance grow, companies are actively seeking certified pilots — but here’s the twist: DGCA certified drone pilot training is now required for the majority of professional positions.
Drone Pilot Training Program
During a training project in 2024, I originally explored the world of drones and saw the enormous possibilities presented. However, numerous students, particularly who are in their final year and freshers, continued to inquire about the same issue: Where should I begin? What is the duration of this DGCA course training? Which course has received approval? Which academy is trustworthy?
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That’s exactly what this guide answers.**
This expert-verified 2025 guide will teach you how to select the appropriate DGCA-approved training institute, understand how drone pilot training operates, get the entire certification procedure, explore career possibilities, salary ranges, and common errors that beginners typically make.
Whether you’re a student or an aspiring drone pilot, this article will give you practical, step-by-step direction — based on real training experience, industry data, and expert inputs.
*What is Drone Training & Why DGCA Certification Matters?
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The Answer (Straight to the Point)
Drone training is the professional process of learning to operate drones safely, skillfully, and according to Indian aviation rules.
The key point is: You cannot work commercially without a DGCA certification course.
Why DGCA Approval is Mandatory
DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) regulates drone pilots through the RPTO (Remote Pilot Training Organization) framework. DGCA-approved drone training includes:
Ground school
Simulator training
Practical flight training
Skill assessment
Pilot license issuance
According to DGCA data (2024), over 12,000+ Remote Pilot Certificates have been issued, and hiring demand has increased by 200%.
Real Experience Insight
When I attended an RPTO evaluation, I noticed how strict the testing is. Students who trained at non-approved academies were rejected instantly. This is why choosing the right DGCA-approved training school determines your career success.
How to Start Drone Training in 2025 (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1 — Check Eligibility
Most students meet the criteria:
Minimum age: 18
Education: 10th standard pass
Aadhaar + valid mobile number
Basic English communication
No major medical restrictions (general fitness needed)
Step 2 — Choose a DGCA-Approved RPTO
This is the most important decision.
Pro Tip: Always check the RPTO approval list on the official DGCA portal.
What to look for:
Experienced instructors
Modern training drones (DJI, ideaForge, Skydio)
Job placement support
Industry tie-ups
Simulator labs
Good reviews & testimonials
Step 3 — Understand the Course Structure
The DGCA Remote Pilot Training typically includes:
Ground school
Drone rules
Airspace understanding
Weather
Emergency handling
Simulator training
Hands-on flight training
Exam + Skill test
Remote Pilot Certificate issuance
Types of DGCA Drone Certification Courses
- Small Category (0–2kg)
Most popular for:
Photography
Media
Inspections
Tourism shoots
- Medium/Survey Category
Used for:
Mapping
Agriculture
Mining
Construction
Smart city planning
- Agriculture Drone Training
Become a member
One of the highest-paying fields in India currently.
Government subsidies and PM-Kisan Drone initiatives made this field boom in 2024–2025.
Expert Note: Survey & agriculture pilots earn higher due to the technical complexity.
Career Opportunities After Drone Training (Updated 2025)
Top Drone Use Cases
Agriculture spraying
Land surveying
Drone deliveries (emerging)
Cinematography
Wedding shoots
Disaster management
Real estate promotion
Solar panel inspection
Forest patrolling
Traffic monitoring
Salary Expectations (Industry Insights)
Based on my research and interviews with RPTOs:
Beginner DGCA-certified pilot: ₹18,000–₹25,000/month
Survey pilot: ₹40,000–₹60,000/month
Agriculture pilot: ₹25,000–₹45,000/month
Freelance cinematography pilot: ₹5,000–₹20,000 per project
Corporate drone analyst: ₹50,000+
Common Mistakes Students Should Avoid
Mistake 1 — Choosing Non-DGCA Training Centers
Your certificate becomes invalid. You cannot legally fly for commercial work.
Mistake 2 — Buying a Drone Before Training
Learn first. Purchase later based on instructor recommendations.
Mistake 3 — Ignoring Job Skill Requirements
Companies prefer:
Survey knowledge
GIS basics
Map processing (Pix4D, DroneDeploy)
Mistake 4 — Not Practicing Enough After Certification
Skill grows only through continuous flying.
Statistics Box
Drone industry growth (India): 105% CAGR (Invest India Report)
Demand for drone pilots: 1 lakh+ required by 2027
RPTOs in India: 60+ approved
Average drone pilot salary: ₹30,000+ per month
Agriculture drone usage growth: 400% from 2023–2024
Tools & Resources Mentioned
DJI Flight Simulator — For safe virtual practice
Pix4D / DroneDeploy — For mapping
Udaan Portal (DGCA) — License verification
FAQs
Q1: How long does DGCA drone training take?
Typically 3–7 days depending on drone category.
Q2: Can students join drone training?
Yes. Anyone above 18 with 10th pass qualification can join.
Q3: Is DGCA certification mandatory?
Yes. Mandatory for commercial flying and professional drone jobs.
Q4: Is the job demand high in India?
Extremely high, especially in agriculture, surveying, and inspections.
Conclusion
Beginning your drone training in 2025 is among the most intelligent career choices for students and future pilots. By completing a verified DGCA certification course, you gain entry to in-demand positions in surveying, agriculture, cinematography, and inspection sectors.
To recap:
• Choose a DGCA-approved training school
• Learn both theory + practical flying
• Build strong skills in mapping and GIS
• Keep practicing consistently
• Apply for internships and projects earlier
As experts agree, India’s drone sector remains in its infancy, and certified pilots will remain in huge demand for many years ahead. If you intend to start, this is the ideal moment to receive training and develop your career in drones.
For professional support, top-tier training, or premium drone solutions, don’t hesitate to check out what we offer at Nova Aerospace. We offer dependable drone products, tailored solutions, and professional assistance to ensure your success in your drone venture.
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