How to Register Your Drone and Obtain an N-Number (Tail Number)

If you own a drone that weighs more than 0.55 pounds and plans to fly it for commercial purposes like spraying crops or inspecting cell towers or any other non-recreational use, you must register it with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and obtain an N-number, also known as a tail number. This number is a unique identifier for your drone and is required by law. It has to be placed on your drone where it is visible. 

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of registering your drone and obtaining an N-number by filling out FAA Form 8050-1 and submitting the required fee.

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Step 1: Determine If You Need an N-Number (Drone Tail Number)

First, it’s important to confirm whether your drone requires an N-number. Generally, this registration is required for drones used for:

- Commercial purposes (e.g., aerial photography, mapping, inspections)

- Public aircraft operations

- Any operation requiring a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

If you’re only flying your drone recreationally and it weighs less than 0.55 pounds, you may only need to register it through the FAA’s DroneZone portal.

You must use the paper (N-number) registration process if:

• Your unmanned aircraft is 55 pounds or greater
• You want to qualify a small unmanned aircraft for operation outside the United States
• You hold title to an aircraft in trust
• The small unmanned aircraft owner uses a voting trust to meet U.S. Citizenship requirements

Step 2: Obtain and Complete FAA Form 8050-1

To begin the registration process, you’ll need to obtain FAA Form 8050-1, the Aircraft Registration Application. This form can be downloaded from the FAA’s website or ordered by mail.

Here’s how to fill out the form:

1. Box 1 put the text “Next Available”.
2. Box 2 put the drone manufacturer: Example: DJI
3. Box 3 put the drone model: Example: DJI, Agras T50
4. Box 4 put the drone’s serial number: For DJI, this can be found on the side of your DJI drone. 
5. Box 5 click “Corporation” or “LLC”. If you do not have an EIN number or have not started a formal business, do this first! You do not want to fly drones without the protection of an LLC or other type of business. 
6. Box 6 put the
1. Company Name: ABC Drones LLC
2. Your full name: Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial, Title
   Smith, John, A, CEO
7. Boxes 7 through 10 are just your address and contact information
8. Box 11 leave blank
9. Box 12 check “A citizen of the United States” unless you are not.
10. Box 13 after “Name of Applicant:” Put the company name followed by your name. Example: ABC Drones LLC, John Smith
11. Sign and date the form. Ensure that the information is accurate and complete.

Step 3: Submit the Form and Payment

Once you’ve completed FAA Form 8050-1, you’ll need to send it to the FAA along with the required registration fee. The fee for drone registration is $5.00.

Payment Method:

The FAA accepts payments by check or money order. Make the check or money order payable to the "Federal Aviation Administration."

Mailing Address:

 Federal Aviation Administration

  Aircraft Registration Branch, AFS-750

  P.O. Box 25504

  Oklahoma City, OK 73125-0504

  

Step 4: Await Confirmation and Receive Your N-Number

After you’ve submitted your form and payment, the FAA will process your application. You will receive a Certificate of Aircraft Registration and your drone's N-number by mail. This number must be displayed on your drone in accordance with FAA guidelines, typically in a visible and legible manner.

You are Ready to Fly!

Registering your drone and obtaining an N-number might seem like a bureaucratic task, but it’s an essential part of operating legally within the United States. By following these steps, you can ensure that your drone is properly registered, and you’re ready to take to the skies safely and legally.

Remember to keep your registration certificate handy whenever you fly, as you may need to present it if requested by law enforcement or FAA officials. Happy flying!