4 Reasons Why the A2 License is Worth It (Even if You Only Fly for Hobby)

We wanted to fly in areas where people are present, not just in complete wilderness. A2 gave us this opportunity, and by holding the A2 certificate, we have transitioned from "hobby" users to delivering content for Helly Hansen and several commercial brands. When we started flying drones, the initial aim was "hobby use" where we loved going on trips and using the drone for photos and videos. We would have had so many more opportunities if we had fully taken the step to obtain the A2 certificate right away.

First, let's clear up a common misconception: Many believe that drone regulations differentiate between hobby and commercial use. They do not. Weight plus camera is what counts – and that means that most drones used for "hobby" flying require both registration and insurance regardless. The difference between A1/A3 and A2 is not about what you use the drone for, but where you are allowed to fly.

1. FREEDOM – Fly Where You Really Want

This is the main reason why it is worth having the A2 certificate. Simply the freedom to use your drone where life happens.

The A1/A3 Problem

In A3, you must maintain a minimum distance of 150 meters from residential, commercial, industrial, or recreational areas. In practice, this means that you CANNOT fly in:

• Villages and towns

• Popular hiking destinations (recreational areas)

• Where your cabin is (if there are other cabins in the area)

• 95% of Norway where people actually go

Even though you can technically fly in A1 with a small drone, there are several restrictions regarding wind stability or image quality of small drones that made us need one with longer flight time, more weight, and better quality in photos and videos.

The A2 Solution

With A2, you can maintain a distance of 30 meters from people not involved in the flying. If you have a C2-rated drone with slow mode, this is reduced to 5 meters. And here is the key: There are much fewer distance restrictions in A2, allowing you to capture both better images and videos.

Concrete Hobby Examples:

• Hiking in Lofoten: People on the trail? A3 says no, A2 says yes.

• Your Cabin: Neighbors in the area? A3 says no, A2 says yes.

• Your Village: Densely populated? A3 says no, A2 says yes.

• Family Trip with Friends: Recreational area? A3 says no, A2 says yes.

We took A2 because we wanted to document trips in areas that people actually visit. Not just "drone in empty landscapes." This is a difference that matters when we look back at what we have created.

2. OPPORTUNITY – If Someone Asks, You Can Say Yes

This happens more often than you think, and it does not always happen as planned.

You post drone images on Instagram. People see the quality. Suddenly someone asks: "Can you take pictures of my house for a Finn ad?" Or: "Can you film our wedding?" Or: "Our company needs aerial images – can you help?"

With A2: You Have the Opportunity

It’s not about HAVING to charge. It’s about being ABLE to if the opportunity arises. You decide for yourself.

If You Choose to Take Jobs

Professional market prices in Norway typically range around:

• Property Photos: 3,000-5,000 NOK

• Roof Inspections: 2,500-4,000 NOK

• Corporate Video: 5,000-10,000 NOK

The only extra requirement is commercial insurance (around 4,000 NOK a year). A2 is actually sufficient for most professional assignments – you do not need to go on to a specific category unless you are flying in very special situations.

Industries actively seeking drone operators include real estate, architects, contractors, advertising agencies, and inspection companies. But again: This is the OPPORTUNITY, not the requirement.

Our Experience

We took A2 for the hobby. Jobs came as people saw photos or videos we created, and we could say yes. Now we run “M Creative Studio” alongside the other regular jobs we have. This was something that gradually came as our "passion" for photo and video only increased..

3. SECURITY – Better Insurance, Easier Permits

All drone pilots must have liability insurance – it is mandatory regardless. The minimum requirement in the open category is 750,000 SDR (approximately 9 million NOK). But with A2 plus commercial insurance (if you take jobs), you get:

• Higher coverage

• Coverage of expensive equipment during "work"

• Demonstrates responsibility and professionalism

Landowners and Permits

The drone operator must have the landowner's permission where they intend to take off and land. When you present the A2 certificate, it becomes easier to get a yes. People trust that you know the rules and fly safely.

Concrete Scenario: The drone loses GPS and hits a window. With good insurance, it is covered. Without insurance, you pay yourself – plus possible penalties if you flew illegally.

Professionalism

A2 shows that you are serious, not just a "cowboy with a drone". This matters – both for yourself, for landowners, and for the industry in general. We need more responsible pilots, not fewer. Drones are portrayed in the media as something people quickly become skeptical about. 

4. FUTURE-PROOFING – You Never Know

Life changes. Maybe it's just a hobby today. But:

• Lost your job? Drone work can become income

• Want to start a side business? A2 is the foundation

• Retired? The hobby can become meaningful extra income

• Just continuing the hobby? A2 gives you the FREEDOM for a hobby with greater freedom

The exam is valid for five years. Take it now while you are engaged. Then you won't have to stress in two years when you might need it. The cost is low: DroneKlar offers preparation for 249-599 NOK, while physical courses often cost 1,500-3,000 NOK.

It’s about opportunities. A2 is a door opener. You decide what to do with it. But without it, many doors remain closed.

Our Story

We took A2 "for safety's sake". It all started with our desire to be freer when using the drone. We ended up building “M Creative Studio” which has led to experiences and assignments that we previously barely dared to dream of.

Ready for more freedom in your hobby? Read more about how to get started with A2 here "Complete Guide: How to Pass the A2 Drone Exam the First Time (2025)", or start practicing today. We share our entire journey – the good, the challenging, and everything in between – because we believe that more can build something meaningful alongside a regular job. Read more at “M Creative Studio”.