FAA drone registration: what it is and how to register
Fixed-wing VTOL survey drone on the ground with a pilot

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FAA registration

Short answerMost drones must be registered with the FAA at FAADroneZone. You get a registration number, and you mark it on the outside of your drone before you fly.
The basics

Key numbers

$5Part 107: per drone. Recreational: one registration covers all drones in your inventory.
3 yearsHow long a registration is valid. Renew through FAADroneZone.
0.55 lbRecreational drones that weigh 0.55 lb or less (under 250 g) don’t need registration. Every Part 107 drone does.
13+Minimum age to register. A younger owner needs someone 13 or older to register.
How to register

Five steps

Pick your rulesRecreational or Part 107. Registrations can’t be moved between the two.
Go to FAADroneZonefaadronezone.faa.gov
Have this readyPhysical and mailing address, email, phone, drone make and model, Remote ID serial number (if applicable), credit or debit card.
Carry the certificatePaper or digital, whenever you fly. Show it to law enforcement if asked.
Mark your dronePut the number on an outside surface before you fly.
Details

Registration questions

How do I mark the drone?

The registration number must be visible on an outside surface of the drone. You can engrave it, use a permanent label, or use a permanent marker. Mark every drone before you fly it.

Who can register?
  • 13 years of age or older
  • A U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
  • For foreign operators, the FAA treats the certificate as a recognition of ownership, not a U.S. aircraft registration.
Someone else is flying my drone

They must carry your registration certificate (paper or digital) when they fly it.

Does registration relate to Remote ID?

Yes. Drones that must be registered, or are registered, must comply with Remote ID. You may need the Remote ID serial number from the manufacturer when you register.

My drone weighs more than 55 lb

FAADroneZone online registration is for drones under 55 lb. The FAA has a separate process for heavier drones; see the FAA registration page.

What if I don’t register?

The FAA says failing to register a drone that requires registration may result in regulatory and criminal penalties.

Sources

Official sources

Last checked: October 11, 2026

Rules change. Always confirm on faa.gov before you fly.

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