Complete Guide to Drone DGCA Type Certification Process in India 2025

The drone industry in India has witnessed unprecedented growth, with the government aiming to establish the country as a global drone hub by 2030. The DGCA has simplified drone operations for agriculture, logistics, and surveying, but operating legally requires proper certification. The Drone DGCA Type Certification Process stands as the cornerstone of regulatory compliance for unmanned aircraft systems in India.

Understanding this certification process is crucial for manufacturers, importers, and operators seeking to operate drones legally in Indian airspace. Without proper type certification, your drone cannot be registered on the Digital Sky platform, making it illegal to operate.

What is Drone DGCA Type Certification

A Type Certificate is a sanction granted by DGCA that states a drone model fulfills airworthiness and safety requirements under the Drone Rules. This certification confirms that a specific drone design meets all relevant safety, performance, and quality standards established by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.

The type certificate serves as proof that the drone has undergone rigorous testing and evaluation by authorized agencies. According to the 2021 drone regulations, no individual is permitted to use an unmanned aircraft system in India unless it possesses a valid type certificate or is granted an exemption from the type certificate requirement.

Who Needs Type Certification

Type certification is mandatory for all drones except nano unmanned aircraft systems (weighing less than 250 grams) and model remotely piloted aircraft systems used for recreational purposes. This includes:

• Commercial drone manufacturers

• Importers of foreign drone models

• Organizations developing custom drone solutions

• Companies planning to sell drones in India

Step-by-Step Drone DGCA Type Certification Process

The certification process involves several stages, each requiring specific documentation and testing procedures. Here's the complete breakdown:

Phase 1: Application Submission

The first step involves submitting your application through the Digital Sky platform. Any person who intends to obtain a type certificate must file an application in Form D-1 on the digital sky platform and pay the requisite fees.

Your application must include:

• Detailed specifications of the drone prototype

• Technical drawings and design documentation

• Manufacturing details and quality control procedures

• Safety analysis reports

• Performance parameter details

Phase 2: Documentation Requirements

Preparing comprehensive documentation is crucial for successful certification. Documents confirming the Indian legal entity of the manufacturer (RC/Trade Mark) and Documents relating to authorisations and permissions required as per Central Government Rules and Regulations are essential.

The technical documentation should cover:

• Design specifications and engineering drawings

• Performance test plans and procedures

• Safety assessment reports

• Quality management system documentation

• Environmental compliance certificates

Phase 3: Prototype Testing

The Quality Council of India (QCI) or its accredited agencies test the compliance of the prototype drone. This testing phase is comprehensive and covers multiple aspects of drone performance and safety.

Testing parameters include:

• Flight performance and stability

• Communication system reliability

• Emergency response capabilities

• Structural integrity under various conditions

• Environmental compliance testing

National Test House (NR) has obtained provisional approval from Quality Council of India(QCI) as Certification Body on 22nd December 2023 to start Type Certification of UAS, providing manufacturers with additional testing options.

Phase 4: Review and Evaluation

The QCI or the authorised testing entity shall examine the application and the prototype and submit the test report along with recommendations to the Director General within 60 days of date of receipt of the application.

During this phase, DGCA officials review:

• Test reports from authorized agencies

• Compliance with safety standards

• Technical documentation completeness

• Performance test results

• Quality assurance processes

Phase 5: Certificate Issuance

Within 15 days of receiving the test report, a type certificate shall be issued once the Director General is satisfied. The certificate confirms that your drone model meets all regulatory requirements for operation in Indian airspace.

Once issued, the type certificate enables:

• Legal manufacturing and sales in India

• Registration on the Digital Sky platform

• Obtaining Unique Identification Numbers (UIN)

• Commercial operation permissions

Required Documents for Type Certification

The documentation requirements for drone type certification are extensive and must be meticulously prepared. Here's what you need:

Legal Entity Documentation

• Certificate of incorporation or registration

• Trade license and business permits

• GST registration certificate

• Company profile and organizational structure

Technical Documentation

• Detailed design specifications

• Engineering drawings and blueprints

• Performance test plans

• Safety analysis reports

• Quality control procedures

Prototype Information

• Physical prototype for testing

• Technical specifications document

• Performance parameter details

• Safety feature descriptions

• Operating manual and procedures

Testing Requirements and Standards

The testing phase is perhaps the most critical aspect of the certification process. Performance, reliability, and safety tests are carried out according to DGCA-approved parameters.

Performance Testing

Testing agencies evaluate flight characteristics, payload capacity, range limitations, and operational efficiency under various conditions. The drone must demonstrate stable flight performance across its intended operational envelope.

Safety Testing

Safety assessments cover emergency response systems, fail-safe mechanisms, and risk mitigation features. The drone must prove its ability to handle system failures without compromising public safety.

Environmental Testing

Environmental compliance testing ensures the drone operates safely across different weather conditions and environmental factors that it may encounter during normal operations.

Costs and Timeline

Understanding the financial and time commitments is essential for planning your certification journey.

Certification Costs

NTH is offering its drone certification services at a highly competitive fee of Rs 1.5 lakh for the certification process, which is the lowest in the industry. Additional costs may include:

• Application processing fees

• Documentation preparation costs

• Prototype development expenses

• Legal and consulting fees

Timeline Expectations

The complete certification process typically takes 3-6 months, depending on:

• Documentation completeness

• Prototype readiness

• Testing complexity

• Review process duration

NTH has achieved this stage in the certification process at a faster pace than its peers in the industry, demonstrating its efficiency and expertise in drone technology certification.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Many applicants face similar obstacles during the certification process. Being aware of these challenges helps you prepare better.

Documentation Complexity

The extensive documentation requirements often overwhelm first-time applicants. Solution: Work with experienced consultants who understand DGCA requirements and can guide document preparation.

Testing Delays

Prototype testing can face delays due to technical issues or incomplete specifications. Solution: Ensure your prototype is fully functional and meets all design specifications before submission.

Regulatory Updates

Drone regulations evolve frequently, potentially affecting ongoing applications. Solution: Stay updated with DGCA announcements and work with consultants who monitor regulatory changes.

Post-Certification Requirements

Obtaining type certification is just the beginning. Several post-certification obligations ensure ongoing compliance.

Registration Process

Once you have the Type Certificate, proceed with drone registration on the Digital Sky Platform. You'll receive a Unique Identification Number (UIN) for your drone.

Quality Maintenance

Certified manufacturers must maintain quality standards and report any design changes that might affect certification validity.

Renewal and Updates

Type certificates require renewal and updates when design modifications are made or when regulatory requirements change.

Benefits of DGCA Type Certification

The certification provides numerous advantages beyond legal compliance:

Market Access

Certified drones can be legally sold and operated throughout India, opening access to the rapidly growing Indian drone market.

Credibility and Trust

Type certification demonstrates commitment to safety and quality, building trust with customers and business partners.

Insurance Advantages

Certified drones often qualify for better insurance rates and coverage options, reducing operational costs.

Export Opportunities

Indian type certification can facilitate international sales and partnerships, as it demonstrates compliance with rigorous safety standards.

Future of Drone Certification in India

The drone certification landscape continues evolving as technology advances and applications expand. In December 2024, India's first corneal tissue delivery by drone demonstrates the expanding scope of drone applications.

Emerging trends include:

• Simplified certification for specific use cases

• Enhanced digital platforms for application processing

• Integration with international certification standards

• Specialized certifications for advanced applications

The government's vision of making India a global drone hub by 2030 will likely bring further improvements to the certification process, making it more efficient while maintaining safety standards.

Understanding and navigating the Drone DGCA Type Certification Process successfully positions your business for growth in India's expanding drone ecosystem. With proper preparation, documentation, and expert guidance, obtaining type certification becomes a manageable process that opens doors to significant business opportunities in the Indian market.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does the drone-type certification process take in India?

The complete drone DGCA type certification process typically takes 3-6 months. This includes 60 days for testing agencies to submit their reports and an additional 15 days for DGCA to issue the certificate once satisfied with the test results. However, the actual timeline can vary depending on documentation completeness, prototype readiness, and testing complexity.

2. What is the cost of drone type certification through National Test House?

National Test House (NTH) offers drone certification services at Rs 1.5 lakh, which is currently the most competitive rate in the industry. This cost covers the certification process, but additional expenses may include application fees, documentation preparation, and prototype development costs that vary based on drone complexity.

3. Can foreign companies apply for drone-type certification in India?

Yes, foreign companies can apply for drone-type certification in India, but they must establish an Indian legal entity or work through an authorized Indian partner. The application requires documents confirming the Indian legal entity status, including registration certificates and trade licenses as per Indian regulations.

4. Is type certification required for all types of drones in India?

No, type certification is not required for nano unmanned aircraft systems (weighing less than 250 grams) used for non-commercial purposes and model remotely piloted aircraft systems used for recreational activities. All other drones, including micro, small, medium, and large categories, require mandatory type certification before operation.

5. What happens if design modifications are made after receiving type certification?

Any design modifications made after receiving type certification require reporting to DGCA and may necessitate re-certification or amendment to the existing certificate. The extent of required documentation and testing depends on the significance of the modifications and their impact on safety and performance parameters. Manufacturers must ensure ongoing compliance with certified specifications.