Register & Register Your Drone — Step by Step
From 250 g you must register your drone with the aviation authority. Here we explain how to get your UAS operator ID and drone registration number.
- Apply for UAS operator ID with your authority
- Attach the drone registration number to the device
- Registration mandatory for all drones from 250 g
- Valid throughout the EU — also on holiday
- With DroneAce, go straight to your drone license
Since the EU drone regulation, anyone flying a drone from 250 g must register as a UAS operator and equip their drone with an individual registration number. Registration is required with the national aviation authority — in Germany with the Luftfahrt-Bundesamt (LBA). With the right instructions this takes just a few minutes. And if you then need the A1/A3 or A2 certificate, DroneAce prepares you efficiently.
Who has to register a drone?
Every drone from 250 g take-off weight must be registered — hobby or commercial. Lighter drones with cameras or other sensors also fall under the registration requirement unless they are classified as toys. Drones under 250 g without a camera are usually exempt.
Step 1: Apply for the UAS operator ID
Register in your national aviation authority's drone portal. After verification you receive a unique UAS operator ID that serves as your operator number. This ID is tied to you as a person, not to the drone. You must be able to produce it for every flight.
Step 2: Create and attach the drone registration number
For each registered drone you generate an individual registration number in the portal. This must be permanently attached to the device — for example as a sticker or engraving. The number is embedded in the drone in case it is checked.
Step 3: Check whether you need a drone license
Besides registration, many drones from 250 g in the open category also require the EU drone license A1/A3 or A2. DroneAce prepares you for the official exam with 365+ practice questions, exam simulation and explanations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does drone registration cost anything?
In Germany, registration as a UAS operator with the LBA is currently free. Other EU countries may charge a small fee.
What is the UAS operator ID?
The UAS operator ID is your personal operator number. It is valid throughout the EU and must be available for every flight.
Do I have to register each drone individually?
You apply for the UAS operator ID once for yourself as a person. However, every single drone from 250 g needs its own registration number, which you create in the portal.
How long does registration take?
Online registration with the LBA usually takes only a few minutes. Activation is normally completed quickly.
Do I also need a drone license after registering?
Yes, for most drones from 250 g in the open category you also need the A1/A3 or A2 competency certificate. DroneAce helps you prepare.
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