Drone insurance: is it mandatory?

Yes. In Germany, every drone must have liability insurance, regardless of its weight. Here you can find out why, what the insurance must cover and what applies in Austria and Switzerland.

What the law says

Under German law, drones are aircraft; when flown for leisure they count as model aircraft (§ 1(2) Aviation Act, LuftVG). The keeper of every aircraft must take out liability insurance (§ 43 LuftVG). The law does not provide an exception for light drones or toys.

Is my personal liability insurance enough?

That depends on your policy. Some personal liability policies include drones, often only up to a certain weight; many exclude them. Ask your insurer and get the cover confirmed in writing. Important: the insurance must meet the legal requirement under the Aviation Act.

How much cover is required?

The minimum sum depends on the weight. For drones under 500 kg it is 750,000 units of account (§ 102 Aviation Licensing Regulation, LuftVZO, in conjunction with § 37 LuftVG). One unit of account is a Special Drawing Right of the International Monetary Fund; its euro value fluctuates with the exchange rate.

Carry the proof

When flying, you must carry the insurance confirmation with you (§ 106 LuftVZO). A printout is the safest option. The police and authorities can ask to see it at any time. Flying without insurance is an administrative offence.

Austria and Switzerland

• Austria: According to Austro Control, drones require liability insurance with cover of at least 750,000 Special Drawing Rights; having insurance in place is a requirement for registration. Check before your trip whether your insurance covers Austria.
• Switzerland: From 250 g, liability insurance with cover of at least CHF 1 million is mandatory; below that, the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) recommends it.

What else you must carry

• Your proof of competency, if your drone requires one, for example as a credit-card-sized card
• the operator ID as a label on the drone, not as a note in your pocket (What goes on the plate?)

As of October 2026. This overview is not legal or insurance advice; the German Aviation Act, the Aviation Licensing Regulation and your insurance policy are authoritative.