TL;DR
- Register with the FAA online
- Make sure your drone is between 0.5 and 55 pounds, including equipment
- Know the make, model, and serial number of your drone
So you’re an aspiring drone pilot looking to turn your hobby into a professional pursuit? Well, the first step and most important step before taking off is to register your drone with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In this blog post, we will delve into the why, how, and when of drone registration, providing you with the most comprehensive guide. Let’s dive in!
Why do pilots have to register their drones?
The primary reason behind drone registration is to promote safety and accountability in the rapidly growing drone industry. By registering your drone, you become a responsible and recognized operator in the eyes of the FAA. This registration process aids in ensuring the safe integration of drones into the national airspace and therefore reducing the potential for accidents or conflicts with other aircraft.
How to register your drone with the FAA
It’s easy! Just follow these step-by-step instructions to complete your registration.
Step 1 – Determine eligibility
Before you begin, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for drone registration. The FAA requires all drone operators, both recreational and commercial, to register their drones if it weighs between 0.55 and 55 pounds. This includes payloads like cameras or equipment.
Step 2 – Create an account
Visit the FAA’s official drone registration webpage. Create an account by providing the necessary information, such as your name, address, and email.
Step 3 -Complete the application
Once you have created an account, proceed to fill out the online application form. Provide accurate details about your drone, including its make, model, and serial number. Additionally, you will need to specify whether you intend to use your drone for recreational or commercial purposes.
Step 4 – Pay the registration fee
There is a registration fee of $5 that needs to be paid during the application process. This fee covers your drone’s registration for a period of three years!
Step 5 – Receive your registration number
After completing the registration process and payment, the FAA will issue you a unique registration number. This number must be displayed on the exterior of your drone, allowing for easy identification.
How to label your drones
As mentioned above, labeling your drone is a crucial step in the registration process. Follow these guidelines to ensure compliance. This is easy too!
Step 1 – Use a fireproof label
Create a label with your unique registration number using a fireproof material, such as vinyl or engraved metal. This ensures the label remains visible and intact even in harsh environmental conditions.
Step 2 – Affix the label externally
Place the label on the exterior of your drone in a location that is easily accessible and visible. The FAA recommends affixing it on the outside surface of the aircraft and not inside the battery compartment or under any protective covering.
When to renew your drone registration
Your drone registration is valid for a certain period of time, three years to be exact. So in order to maintain compliance and stay in the air, it is essential to renew your registration in a timely manner. And don’t worry about forgetting to renew. The FAA will send you a renewal reminder via email approximately three months before your registration expiration date.
Make sure to update any changes to your contact information to receive these notifications promptly.
Registering your drone with the FAA is a necessary step for aspiring drone pilots looking to turn their hobby into a professional pursuit. By following the step-by-step process outlined above, you can ensure that you meet the regulatory requirements and do your part to keep the national airspace safe.
Remember to label your drone appropriately and renew your registration every three years to stay compliant. So, go ahead, register your drone, and take your aerial photography and videography skills to new heights!