Drone LawsMapContributeArticles

Drone Registration Guide

This guide walks you through every requirement and practical step to register your drone with the FAA, explains the fee structure and valid periods, covers marking rules, details the Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST), and highlights special rules for large or foreign-operated drones.

Why You Must Register

Federal law requires all drones flown under 14 CFR Part 107 to be registered with the FAA, and the limited recreational exception mandates registration for any drone weighing more than 0.55 lb (250 g) before flight. Registration links your aircraft to you and provides accountability in the national airspace system.

Weight Thresholds and Exceptions

Drones that weigh more than 0.55 lb (250 g) and less than 55 lb fall under the small UAS registration requirements; you must register each such drone. Drones weighing 0.55 lb or less (250 g) flown exclusively for recreational purposes under the Exception for Limited Recreational Operations do not require registration. UAS heavier than 55 lb are classified as large UAS and must follow aircraft registry rules under Part 47.

Registration Types and Fees

The FAA offers two registration types under Part 48: one for recreational flyers (the Exception for Limited Recreational Operations) and one for Part 107 commercial operators. Both registration types cost $5 per registrant or aircraft and remain valid for three years. You cannot transfer a registration number between recreational and commercial operation types; each category requires its own registration.

How to Register in FAADroneZone

  1. Create an account on FAADroneZone and complete your profile details.
  2. Provide your name, email, physical address, and contact information.
  3. In the UAS inventory, add each drone by entering its make, model, and serial number; for Standard Remote ID drones or broadcast modules, include the Remote ID serial number.
  4. Pay the $5 registration fee by credit or debit card.
  5. Once registered, you will receive a unique FAA registration number for each Part 107 drone or a single number covering all recreational drones in your inventory.

Displaying Your Registration Number

FAA rules require you to display your registration number on an external surface of the drone so it is legible without disassembly. You may use the FAA-issued number or a fireproof label, but interior placement is no longer allowed.

Renewals and Recordkeeping

You must renew your registration every three years by paying the $5 fee again; the renewal process mirrors initial registration and preserves your existing number. Keep a copy of your registration certificate on your mobile device or in print.

Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST)

All recreational flyers must pass the FAA’s free Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) before operating a drone. You must carry proof of TRUST passage (no minimum age requirement) whenever you fly under the recreational exception.

Special Rules for Foreign Operators

If your drone is registered outside the U.S., you must apply for a foreign aircraft permit at least 15 days before operations begin. Provide your home-country registration details and proposed operation dates when you apply.

Next Steps

After registration, verify your drone’s eligibility for Remote ID, review local launch site restrictions, and consult NOTAMs for any Temporary Flight Restrictions. Proper registration and adherence to FAA rules ensure you can enjoy flying without risk of penalties or enforcement actions.