Registering a drone with the FAA costs $5
The FAA charges $5 to register a drone, and the registration lasts 3 years. If you fly for fun, one $5 registration covers every drone you own. If you fly under Part 107 for work, each drone needs its own $5 registration. Drones of 250 grams or less flown only for fun do not need to be registered.
FAA drone registration fees
| Recreational (hobby) registration, covers all your drones | $5 for 3 years |
|---|---|
| Part 107 registration, per drone | $5 for 3 years |
| Hobby drone of 250 grams (0.55 lb) or less | No registration needed |
| Where to register | FAADroneZone |
| Part 107 pilot with 3 drones, every 3 years | $15 |
|---|---|
| Hobby flyer with 3 drones, every 3 years | $5 |
A registration cannot be moved between hobby and Part 107. You must be 13 or older to register. Registered drones must also meet the FAA's Remote ID rule. Sources: FAA, How to Register Your Drone.
What this price covers
The $5 covers registration only. Flying for work also needs a Remote Pilot Certificate under Part 107, which means passing an FAA knowledge test at a testing center. That test fee is charged by the testing company, not the FAA.
What changes your price
- Hobby or work. Hobby flyers pay once for all drones. Part 107 pilots pay per drone.
- Weight. Hobby drones of 250 grams or less are exempt. Part 107 drones are never exempt.
Ways to pay less
- Register only at the FAA's own DroneZone site. Other sites charge extra for the same $5 form.
- Mark your registration number on the outside of the drone.
- Set a reminder to renew before the 3 years run out.
How we got these numbers
Every fee on this page comes from the government agency that charges it, or from the federal rule that sets it. Where we show a total, we only add up the agency's own fees so you can see the full amount in one place. We do not add our own guesses. Fees can change, so check the agency's website before you pay. We last checked on September 26, 2026.
Common questions
How much does it cost to register a drone?
$5, good for 3 years.
Do I need to register a drone under 250 grams?
Not if you fly only for fun. Yes if you fly under Part 107.
Does one registration cover all my drones?
Yes for hobby flyers. No for Part 107 pilots.