New Federal Law Requires Owners To Register Drones

The U.S. government is now requiring everyone who owns a drone to register it with the Federal Aviation Administration. The federal law becomes effective December 21, 2015.

Owners of drones that weigh between a half pound and 55 pounds can face civil and criminal penalties if they don't register with the Unmanned Aircraft System, according to the FAA.

Whether it's used commercially or for fun, drones are considered aircraft and must be registered.

"Registration helps us ensure safety - for you, others on the ground and manned aircraft," the FAA states on its website. "UAS pose new security and privacy challenges and must be traceable in the event of an incident."

If you already own an unmanned aircraft, you must register no later than February 19, 2015. Anyone who gets a drone after December 21 must register before its first outdoor flight. 

Failure to register can cost up to $27,500 in civil penalties. Criminal penalties may include fines of up to $250,000 and/or imprisonment for up to three years, the FAA states.

The FAA law also requires operators to have their registration certificate with them while operating the unmanned aircraft.

The $5 registration fee is being waived from December 21, 2015 to January 20, 2016. 

Link To Drone Registration