Drone laws in the Dominican Republic

Last update on 29.07.2021 | 13 Kommentare

In this post, you will learn everything you need to know about flying your drone in the Dominican Republic!

Theoretically, according to the current law, a permit for drone flights in the Dominican Republic is only necessary if the copter weighs at least 2 kilograms. However, several of our readers have been informed by the Instituto Dominicano de Aviacion Civil (IDAC) that they also need permission for lighter drones. Apparently, this is supposed to prevent problems with customs when entering the country and the authority wants to ensure that drones are not operated in prohibited areas. This means you should allow some time for the application, as processing time can take up to 25 business days.

The procedure has been changed. This form is now available. Unfortunately, there is little information about the application process beyond this. The government websites are often inaccessible. Some readers have been asked to submit further documentation, such as a map showing the planned flight areas, plus copies of the drone registration and license. It is possible that a foreign drone registration and license will be accepted.

Overview: Drone rules in Dominican Republic

Further regulations for drone pilots in the Dominican Republic

Drones always have to be operated within visual line of sight. Specifically, this means that the multicopter can not be more than 455 meters (1,500 feet) away from you.

For using your drones in the Dominican Republic, you normally need special liability insurance. In the IDAC’s official forum, there are several questions about light drones for hobby purposes. According to this, insurance is not always compulsory. Nevertheless, we recommend having insurance.

Safety distances and flight bans

Keep a distance of at least 8 kilometers (5 miles) to flight lanes and airports and at least 50 meters to buildings, vehicles and people.

Drones may only be flown during the day between sunrise and sunset.

Special rules for drone pilots in the Dominican Republic

Drones weighing less than 2 kilograms must not fly faster than 30 knots (55 km / h).

Regulations for commercial pilots

In our understanding, drone operations in the Dominican Republic are classified primarily by weight and not by type of use.

Good to know

According to some posts in forums, police and army personnel may question you about your drone flights. However, this is probably due to the curiosity of the locals, so you do not have to be afraid. Nevertheless, you should of course be careful and follow the rules.

We have researched the listed drone regulations for the Dominican Republic to the best of our knowledge. We cannot guarantee the correctness of the information. If you want to be on the safe side, contact the competent aviation authority. Alternatively, you can also ask the embassy in your country for further information about the regulations. Please leave us a comment when you receive news and/or gain experience with your copter in the Dominican Republic!