Does the DJI Mini 3 Need to Be Registered? (Explained for Beginners)

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The DJI Mini 3 is a superb sub-250g drone that has proved exceptional for many applications.

It is one of the most fulfilling entry-level drones with numerous exciting features, including an excellent battery, true vertical shooting, 4k video shooting, and more.

As a beginner, one of the common questions you will need help with is whether you need to register your newly-acquired DJI Mini 3.

This article will answer that question and more, so let’s not waste any time!

Do you have to register the DJI Mini 3 with the FAA? #

That all depends on how you want to use your drone. Since the DJI Mini 3 is lighweight, you do not have to register it with the FAA if you’re using it for recreational purposes.

However, if you intend to use it for commercial purposes, you must register it regardless of its weight.

Please keep reading for more details on registering your drone and the implications of failing to register it.

What you need to register your DJI Mini 3 #

Registering your drone requires you to have the following information:

Email address
Physical address
Phone number
Debit or credit card
Your Mini 3’s Specific Remote ID serial number from the manufacturer

Apart from ensuring that you have all the information necessary for completing the process, there are other essential registration requirements that you will need. They include the following:

Be 13 years of age or older
Be a US citizen
A registration fee of $5 for both Part 107 and recreational flyers

The registration process #

Once you have established that you meet all the requirements for registering your drone, it is time to shift gears to the registration itself.

Log onto FAADroneZone.
Once you’re logged in, create an account by filling out the form presented to you for drone registration.
Next, click on the “Launch Drone Owners and Pilots Dashboard.”
The system will then direct you to a page where you must manage device inventory before registering your drone.
Click add device.

If your DJI Mini 3 broadcasts Remote ID, you must acknowledge this fact on the form.

Additionally, you will need to fill in other essential details, including the manufacturer, serial number of the drone, and model, and then pay the $5 fee.

After you complete the registration, you will get an email with your FAA registration certificate.

Always remember to carry your certificate whenever flying your drone. Further, mark your DJI Mini 3 drone with your registration number.

Renew your drone registration #

After your registration expires, you will need to renew your registration.

Log into the FAA DroneZone and use the same email you used during the registration to complete the renewal.

Why do I need to register my drone? #

According to the FAA, all drones should be registered except those that weigh less than 250 grams and are used exclusively for recreational purposes.

The FAA is keen on regulating anything that takes to the sky, and there is a good reason for this.

First, drones can cause harm to manned aircraft, which may lead to the loss of lives.

Additionally, drones, if left unregulated, can be used to violate people’s privacy or national security.

The FAA registration guidelines are designed to prevent inappropriate usage of drones while ensuring that pilots are accountable for their actions.

Can the FAA track your registered drone? #

The FAA expects all drone pilots to adhere to rules and regulations. But can they track you?

The answer is yes. The FAA and other law enforcement agents have special ways to track and locate drones, including using Remote ID.

For instance, drones with a UAS Remote ID provide identification and location details to third parties.

In other words, remote ID can aid the FAA and other law enforcement parties in locating a drone if it violates the law.

What happens if you do not register your DJI Mini 3? #

Failure to register your drone when as required may lead to severe penalties. The FAA can fine you up to $27,500 for a civil offense.

Additionally, you may face criminal penalties with fines of up to $250,000 and three years imprisonment.

Do I need a license to fly my DJI Mini 3? #

You do not need a license if you fly your DJI Mini 3 exclusively for recreational purposes.

All you need is to register with the FAA as a recreational flier, and you will be good to explore the skies.

If you’re flying for commercial purposes, you must have a Remote Pilot Certificate through the FAA.

Furthermore, you will need to adhere to Part 107 guidelines.

Why are drones under 250 grams such a big deal? #

Drones such as the DJI Mini 3, which weighs less than 250g, have become a big deal in the current market.

While these drones boast awesome features, the selling point is the weight.

Why is that?

The Mini 3 is relevant in the modern market for several reasons, including the following.

1. No need for registration #

As you know, the Mini 3 does not require registration when used for recreational operations.

Furthermore, the drone is lightweight. If you’re a traveling enthusiast, you will always enjoy traveling with your drone to explore worldwide skies since the drone is highly portable.

2. No need to be Remote ID compliant #

Remote ID rules aid the FAA in locating pilots who violate the rules and regulations governing the use of UAVs.

As of September 2022, all drones weighing 250g and above manufactured in the US must be remote ID compliant.

There’s no need for this if you have a Mini 3.

3. Enhanced safety #

While most people go for small drones because they do not want problems with the authorities for defying drone rules, that’s not the only reason you should go for the DJI Mini 3.

If you crash a sub 250g drone, the impact will not be as damaging as that of a big and heavy drone.