Remote ID Compliance Checker
Since March 2024, every drone flown under Part 107 (or recreationally above 250g) must broadcast Remote ID per 14 CFR Part 89. Check below whether your drone has Standard Remote ID built-in, find a broadcast module if not, or learn about FRIA-only operations.
Three paths to compliance
- Standard Remote ID β drone broadcasts natively (firmware update may be required).
- Broadcast Module β bolt-on transmitter for older drones.
- FRIA-only β fly only inside an FAA-Recognized Identification Area (limited to AMA-style club fields).
Standard Remote ID drones (compliant out-of-the-box)
These drones broadcast Remote ID natively (firmware update may be required β check FAA UAS Declaration of Compliance database for the authoritative list).
FAA-approved Remote ID broadcast modules
For drones built before 2022 (Phantom 4, Mavic 2, Mavic Air, custom builds), bolt one of these on. They're plug-and-play, FCC/FAA certified, and broadcast independently of the drone's firmware.
Dronetag Mini
~$130Smallest broadcast module on market (~14g). Bluetooth + Wi-Fi. FAA-approved.
BlueMark db201
~$210Open-source firmware, Bluetooth Long Range. Popular with custom builders.
Spektreworks RIDR
~$165Lightweight, made in USA. Compatible with most consumer drones.
Pierce Aerospace Flight Portal
~$199Enterprise option with 10+ km Bluetooth Long Range coverage.
Aloft Air Tag
~$149Bundled with Aloft LAANC subscription option.
FRIA β the no-Remote-ID exception
If you can't (or won't) install Remote ID, your only legal option is to fly inside an FAA-Recognized Identification Area. FRIA applications come from organizations (model aircraft clubs, schools, public safety agencies) β not individuals.
Browse active FRIAs at the FAA FRIA portal. Most are tied to AMA-sanctioned RC clubs.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Remote ID become mandatory?
Compliance became mandatory on March 16, 2024 for all drones operating under Part 107 or recreationally that weigh more than 250 grams (0.55 lbs). The FAA enforced fines starting that date.
Do I need Remote ID for a sub-250g drone (DJI Mini)?
Sub-250g drones flown recreationally under the Recreational Flyer rules do NOT require Remote ID OR registration. However, if you operate the same drone commercially under Part 107, you must register it AND have Remote ID. So a Mini 4 Pro flown for a real estate gig needs Remote ID; the same drone flown for fun does not.
How does Remote ID actually broadcast?
Remote ID broadcasts via Bluetooth/Wi-Fi (no cellular). Anyone with a free Remote ID receiver app (like FAA-issued OpenDroneID viewer or DroneScanner) can pull your drone's session ID, location, altitude, velocity, and the take-off location of your control station within ~1 second.
What's a FRIA and do I need one?
FAA-Recognized Identification Areas (FRIAs) are designated zones (mostly model aircraft club fields like AMA-sanctioned sites) where you can fly NON-Remote-ID drones. Only an organization can apply to designate a FRIA β individuals cannot. If you fly a non-compliant drone outside a FRIA, you're violating Part 89.
What's the penalty for flying without Remote ID?
Civil penalties up to $27,500 per violation under Part 89, plus possible suspension/revocation of your remote pilot certificate. The FAA has issued real fines since enforcement began.
Related Drone Tools
More drone tools: FAA Airspace Map Β· LAANC Guide Β· Part 107 Quiz Β· Long-form Remote ID Guide