Drones are used in just about everything—from package delivery to emergency response. There needs to be order within the National Airspace System otherwise all sorts of accidents could occur. One of the tools for enhancing safety and accountability here is through the remote ID for drones.

What is Remote ID?

Remote ID is a “digital license plate” for unmanned aircraft that enables drones to broadcast identification and location information during flight. That way, anyone – be it law enforcement, regulators, or nearby drone pilots, can know who’s flying and where. 

Why is Remote ID Important?

  • Supports Advanced Operations: This includes complex missions like utility inspections or beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations.
  • Enhances Security: Remote ID helps authorities investigate and respond to drones flying unsafely or in restricted zones.
  • Protects Airspace Integrity: It provides a mechanism to track drones and their operators, ensuring compliance with regulations.

Related reading: Key FAA Drone Regulations Every U.S. Pilot Should Know

How Remote ID Works

There are three ways to comply with the rule:

1. Standard Remote ID Drones

These drones come equipped with built-in broadcasting capabilities. From takeoff to landing, they transmit key details via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, such as:

  • Drone ID (serial number or session ID)
  • Location, altitude, and velocity
  • Control station location
  • Emergency status and time marks

This information is accessible to personal wireless devices within range, ensuring situational awareness while protecting sensitive operator data.

2. Remote ID Broadcast Modules

Not every drone comes equipped with built-in Remote ID. For such cases, operators can attach a broadcast module. This retrofitting solution is particularly useful for older drones. Broadcast modules provide similar information as Standard Remote ID drones but require the operator to maintain a line of sight during flights.

3. FAA-Recognized Identification Areas (FRIAs)

For hobbyists and educational users, FRIAs are designated zones where drones can operate without Remote ID broadcasting. These areas are managed by FAA-recognized organizations, such as community-based groups or educational institutions. Any drpnes being flown here myst remain within visual line of sight.

Related Reading: How to Become a Drone Pilot: A Step-by-Step Guide

Getting Started with Remote ID Compliance

Register Your Drone

  • Recreational Pilots: You can register once and use a single registration number for all your drones. However, ensure that each drone’s Remote ID serial number (or that of the broadcast module) is added to your inventory.
  • Part 107 Pilots: Drones flown for commercial purposes must be registered individually, with unique registration numbers for each.

Ensure Compatibility

Before flying, confirm that your drone or broadcast module is listed on the FAA-accepted Declaration of Compliance. You’ll also need to locate and input your Remote ID serial number, which may differ from the drone’s standard serial number.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drone Remote ID

How can I check if my drone is Remote ID compliant? 

  • Check the FAA’s UAS Declaration of Compliance: Here there is a database of drones and broadcast modules that meet Remote ID standards. Search for your drone’s make and model on the website to confirm its inclusion. If you find it you’re all set. Just ensure that you keep the drone’s firmware updated.
  • Locate Your Drone’s Remote ID Serial Number: Manufacturers assign a specific Remote ID serial number to compliant drones. You can find this number on the drone itself, its controller, or displayed within the controller’s startup menus.

Do all drones need Remote ID?

Not all drones require Remote ID. For example, drones weighing less than 0.55 lbs may be exempt unless they’re used in operations requiring FAA registration, such as commercial activities under Part 107. Additionally, flights conducted entirely within FRIAs are exempt from Remote ID requirements.

Can I still fly my older drone?

Yes! By using a Remote ID broadcast module, you can retrofit older drones to meet compliance standards. This ensures that no one is left behind as the drone community embraces this technology.

What frequency does Remote ID transmit on?

Remote ID broadcasts typically use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth on the 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz frequency bands, ensuring compatibility with standard devices like smartphones and tablets within range.

What is a Session ID?

A Session ID is a temporary, unique code that might one day act as an alternative to your drone’s permanent ID during flights. The FAA is exploring this feature to enhance privacy. Instead of broadcasting your drone’s serial number, you could use this temporary identifier, which authorities could still trace back to your registration. It’s not public information, so your data stays secure, but it’s there if law enforcement or the FAA needs it. This is still in development, and the FAA plans to gather public feedback before rolling it out.

What are the ways to comply with Remote ID requirements? 

You can operate a drone with built-in Remote ID, use an approved add-on Remote ID broadcast module, or fly in designated FAA-Recognized Identification Areas (FRIAs) where Remote ID isn’t required​

How do I ensure my Remote ID is working properly? 

Most drones conduct a pre-flight self-test on the Remote ID system. You can check the status on your drone’s control app or associated devices like DJI Goggles or controllers, where a normal status will indicate functionality​

Can I fly my drone without Remote ID? 

Yes, but only within FRIAs. These are specific areas approved by the FAA where drones without Remote ID can be flown, provided they remain within the operator’s line of sight​.

What happens if my Remote ID isn’t functioning? 

If your Remote ID isn’t working, you cannot legally operate your drone in most areas of national airspace. It’s crucial to fix or replace the Remote ID system before flying outside of FRIAs​

Are there any privacy concerns with Remote ID? 

The information broadcast by Remote ID includes only the drone’s ID and location data. While this can be received by many personal wireless devices, only authorized entities like the FAA and law enforcement can access the full details linked to the drone’s registration.