Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Registration
FAA Registration Required of All Model Aircraft Pilots
Current FAA regulations REQUIRE anyone who flies a model aircraft to register as a pilot. The $5 fee is waived if you register before January 19, 2016.
The law took effect December 21, 2015 and if you purchased a model after that date, you should register before flying that airplane (sUAS). Previously owned models can be flown by unregistered pilots until the February 19, 2016 deadline.
No matter what - you must register by February 19, 2016 if you intend to fly anything after that date.
The AMA is working on making the process simpler for AMA members, but currently the process is:
- to go to the secure FAA Website;
- establish a username and password;
- login;
- provide your name, address and email contact;
- provide a credit card for paying the fee. This is a typical online secure shopping cart sort of process.
There is only one button to push for registration on the site - “Register my Drone” but click it even if you don’t think your foamy or biplane is a drone. The fines if you get caught flying without your FAA number can ruin your day.