So you’ve just got your first drone, and you can’t wait to finally get it in the air. That’s great: but there are specific conditions you must meet before you get your new UAV aircraft off the ground. You’ll eventually have to get your certification as a drone pilot, but there’s another important step in the process if you want to take to the skies with that spiffy new drone: you have to get it registered. But what does that entail? What exactly will you need to make sure your drone is government-approved? If that’s your question, we’re here to help you understand the drone registration requirements.
The process itself is fairly simple and straightforward as long as you know what to do. We’ve got you covered with everything you should know before you put your pen to the paperwork and get your drone approved, so let’s get started.
Check Your Weight
If your drone weights over 250 grams but under 25 kilograms, then it must be registered with Transport Canada. Drones that fall under this weight range are free to fly without registration, just as those above it. However, bear in mind that to fly a drone over 25 kilograms requires a special flight certificate that’s a bit more complicated to acquire than the general drone pilot certification. Have the exact weight of your drone handy when you contact Transport Canada, as they will ask it of you on your paperwork.
Gather Your Basic Info
When you go to register your drone, you’ll want to have the purchase date handy. You’ll be asked about your drone’s make, model, serial number, and type. It’s a good idea to have your drone’s manual on hand so you have access to all the specific information that you might be asked. With your manual, you’ll have everything you need to meet the drone registration requirements, fill out your paperwork, and get your drone in the sky!
Credit Card Info
In order to register your drone, you’ll have to pay a registration fee. While we’re sure that doesn’t excite you, the good news is that it’s only $5. So when you go to the Transport Canada website to register your drone, make sure to have your Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Interac card ready to go. After all, $5 is definitely worth it to get your drone in the air legally, especially given the hefty fine you’ll face if you violate this regulation!
Know the Consequences for Not Registering
If you don’t register your drone with Transport Canada, you could end up paying penalty fees up to $1,000, if you’re a private individual, and $5,000 if the drone belongs to a corporation. Another important reason to register is it will help authorities get it back to you. If you ever lose your drone, it may one day be returned to you if it’s registered. The chance of that happening is significantly lower for an unregistered drone.
Drone Registration Requirements: Stay Safe and Legal!
There’s nothing like finally getting your first drone off the ground. Before you get to that point, however, you need to be prepared to meet the drone registration requirements. In addition, you’re going to need a drone pilot certification if you want to take to the skies legally. Check out more of A3 UAV’s helpful information so you can be on your way to becoming the best drone pilot you can be. We have industry news, regulation specifics, and drone training courses to get you ready to take to the skies. So if you’re ready to get your drone in the air, visit Victory UAV today.
