WASHINGTON — Effective Monday, drones need to be registered with the Department of Transportation.
The Department announced last week that it set up an online registry for small unmanned aircraft that weigh more than 0.55 pounds and less than 55 pounds.
The registry does not support the registration of small drones for any purpose other than hobby or recreation. Rules for business are still being developed by the Federal Aviation Administration.
Drones purchased before registration opens Monday must be registered by mid-February.
If they’re bought anytime after that, the drones must be logged in before their first flight.
Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx says it costs $5, but holiday shoppers who check it off their lists right away will be rewarded.
The fee will be waived for the first 30 days that the registry is open. Owners may register at www.faa.gov/uas/registration.
“Make no mistake: unmanned aircraft enthusiast are aviators, and with that title comes a great deal of responsibility,” said Foxx, in a news release.
“Registration gives us an opportunity to work with these users to operate their unmanned aircraft safely. I’m excited to welcome these new aviators into the culture of safety and responsibility that defines American innovation.”
FAA Administrator Huerta. “Registration gives us the opportunity to educate these new airspace users before they fly so they know the airspace rules and understand they are accountable to the public for flying responsibly.”
Read all the details of the drone registry rules.
