The Importance of Drone Registration

The use of drones in both recreational and professional capacities has skyrocketed over the past few years, enabling countless applications across multiple industries. However, with the rapid rise of this new technology comes the need for proper regulation to maintain a safe and responsible flying environment. One important piece of this puzzle is drone registration.

Drones, or unmanned aerial vehicles, must be registered with the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) if they weigh more than 0.55 pounds and fly under Part 107 regulations. The registration process is relatively simple, requiring the user to navigate to the official FAA website, DroneZone, and creating an account with an email address and password. Once the account has been created, the drone owner will be prompted to pay a nominal fee and receive a unique drone identification number that they must mark on their UAV using a sticker provided by the FAA or by engraving it somewhere it’s clearly visible. Once the drone is marked, the drone owner will need to carry documentation of their FAA drone registration with them in case they are approached by an authorized figure while operating their drone.

Those looking to fly their drones professionally may be interested in registering them under the name of their business or organization rather than their own personal name. This may seem like a hassle, but it’s a great way to ensure that all drone operations are conducted under the appropriate authority. It also prevents problems should the RPIC leave the company or their role change, and it makes the company as a whole accountable for any drone incidents.

While it may take some time and effort to pass the FAA drone registration test, there are many resources available to help. Online courses, practice exams, and study guides can be an excellent way to familiarize yourself with the guidelines and regulations that govern airspace operation before taking the actual test. In addition, networking and discussion forums with other drone pilots can provide insight into how to approach the test, as well as strategies for overcoming potential hurdles.

In addition to complying with FAA regulations, it’s vital for drone owners to know their local and state laws regarding drone flight. For example, drones are generally prohibited from being flown over national parks and within 5 miles of airports, among other restricted areas. It’s also advisable to only fly drones over private property with permission from the owner. Drone operators looking to undertake specialized projects such as Orthomosaic and LiDAR mapping should partner with an experienced service provider who can handle the rigorous requirements of these types of projects. Blue Falcon Aerial is an expert in these fields and can assist with a variety of different deliverables, so be sure to check out their Deliverables page.