Remote ID Requirements

What Is Remote ID and Why Does It Matter?

Remote ID represents one of the most significant regulatory changes in drone aviation since the FAA introduced Part 107. Often described as a “digital license plate” for drones, Remote ID fundamentally changes how unmanned aircraft are tracked and identified in our airspace.

Understanding Remote ID is essential for every drone operator in 2025—whether you fly commercially under Part 107 or recreationally. This comprehensive guide explains what Remote ID is, why it exists, how to comply, and what it means for the future of drone operations.

Understanding Remote ID Technology

Remote ID is a technology that enables drones to broadcast identification and location information that can be received by other parties. Think of it as similar to how aircraft transponders work for manned aviation, but designed specifically for the unique characteristics of small unmanned aircraft systems.

What Information Does Remote ID Broadcast?

When your drone is in flight, Remote ID continuously broadcasts:

• Drone Identity: A unique serial number or session ID
• Drone Location: Latitude, longitude, and geometric altitude
• Drone Velocity: Speed and direction of flight
• Control Station Location: The position of the pilot or takeoff point
• Timestamp: Time mark for the transmitted message
• Emergency Status: Indication if emergency status is declared

This information is broadcast using radio frequency signals and, in some cases, transmitted over the internet. Authorized entities—including law enforcement, federal security agencies, and the FAA—can receive and use this information to identify operators and ensure compliance.

Why the FAA Implemented Remote ID

The FAA introduced Remote ID to address several critical needs:

Safety and Security: With hundreds of thousands of drones in the airspace, authorities need the ability to identify drones operating near sensitive locations, restricted areas, or in violation of regulations.

Law Enforcement: Remote ID gives law enforcement tools to track down operators flying recklessly, invading privacy, or operating illegally without having to physically chase drones.

Airspace Integration: For advanced operations like beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) and drone delivery services to become reality, a robust identification system is necessary to manage air traffic.

Public Accountability: Just as cars have license plates and aircraft have tail numbers, drones now have a standardized identification system that promotes responsible operation.

The Remote ID Implementation Timeline

Understanding the timeline helps clarify compliance requirements:

Rule Publication: April 2021

The FAA published the final Remote ID rule in April 2021, establishing the regulatory framework and technical requirements for the system.

Compliance Date: September 16, 2023

This is the critical date all operators should know. As of September 16, 2023:

• All drone operations require Remote ID compliance (with limited exceptions)
• Operating without Remote ID outside of FRIAs is a violation of FAA regulations
• Both recreational and commercial operators must comply

Manufacturing Requirements

• After September 16, 2022: Manufacturers could only produce drones with built-in Standard Remote ID
• After September 16, 2023: All new drone operations must broadcast Remote ID

Two Types of Remote ID Compliance

Standard Remote ID

Standard Remote ID is built directly into the drone by the manufacturer. This is the ideal, long-term solution that provides the most complete functionality.

Capabilities:

• Broadcasts identification via radio frequency from the drone itself
• Optionally sends information to Remote ID UAS Service Suppliers (USS) via internet
• Integrated seamlessly with the drone’s systems
• No additional equipment needed

Examples of drones with Standard Remote ID:

• DJI Mini 3 Pro (manufactured after Sept 2022)
• DJI Mavic 3 (with firmware updates)
• Autel EVO II series (with updates)
• Skydio X2

Many manufacturers have released firmware updates to enable Remote ID on existing models. Check your manufacturer’s website to see if your drone can be updated to include Standard Remote ID.

Broadcast Remote ID Modules

For drones manufactured before Remote ID requirements or custom-built drones, broadcast modules provide a compliance pathway.

How Broadcast Modules Work:

• External device attached to the drone (usually on top or bottom)
• Connects to the drone’s power supply
• Broadcasts required Remote ID information via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi
• Must be powered on during all operations

Popular broadcast modules include:

• DroneTag Mini
• Cube ID Orange Cube
• BlueMark DroneBeacon
• SerialTelemetry Broadcast Module

Broadcast modules typically cost between $50 and $200. When selecting a module, ensure it’s FAA-approved and compatible with your specific drone model in terms of weight, power requirements, and mounting options.

Standard vs. Broadcast: Key Differences

FAA-Recognized Identification Areas (FRIAs)

FRIAs are designated locations where drones can fly without Remote ID capability. These represent the primary exception to Remote ID requirements.

What Are FRIAs?

FRIAs are specific geographic areas, typically model aircraft flying fields, where the FAA has determined that Remote ID is not required. They provide a place for legacy drones (those without Remote ID capability and unable to support broadcast modules) to continue operating.

FRIA Requirements and Limitations

Flying in a FRIA means:

• The FRIA must be officially recognized by the FAA
• You must fly entirely within the FRIA boundaries
• The FRIA is typically at a community-based organization or model aircraft club
• All other FAA rules still apply (altitude limits, airspace authorization, etc.)
• You may need to be a club member or pay a day-use fee

Finding FRIAs

The FAA maintains an official map of recognized FRIAs on their website. As of 2025, several hundred FRIAs exist across the United States, primarily at:

• Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) flying fields
• Established RC aircraft clubs
• University research facilities
• Some commercial testing facilities

Before relying on FRIA status, always verify the location on the FAA’s official FRIA map, as designations can change.

Compliance Requirements by Operation Type

Part 107 Commercial Operations

Commercial drone operators must:

• Ensure all drones have Standard Remote ID or broadcast modules
• Activate Remote ID before every flight
• Ensure Remote ID is functioning properly (no jamming or disabling)
• Alternatively, conduct all operations within FRIAs

For commercial operators, flying in FRIAs is often impractical since most commercial work occurs at client locations, not flying fields. Therefore, Remote ID compliance through Standard Remote ID or broadcast modules is typically necessary.

Recreational Operations

Recreational flyers have the same requirements:

• Drones must have Standard Remote ID or broadcast modules
• Remote ID must be active during flight
• Or fly exclusively within FRIAs

Many recreational pilots prefer flying at FRIAs (model aircraft clubs) where they can use legacy drones and enjoy the community aspect of club flying.

Special Cases and Exceptions

Drones Under 0.55 Pounds (250 grams): Even small drones must comply with Remote ID. The DJI Mini 2, for example, weighs under 250g but still requires Remote ID compliance via firmware update or broadcast module.

Amateur-Built Drones: Custom and self-built drones must use broadcast modules to comply, as they won’t have factory-installed Standard Remote ID.

Educational Institutions: Some universities and research facilities may operate under FRIAs or special authorizations, but typical educational use requires Remote ID.

Privacy Considerations and Common Concerns

Who Can See Remote ID Data?

Remote ID information is accessible to:

• Law Enforcement: Local, state, and federal officers with proper equipment
• FAA: For regulatory compliance and enforcement
• Federal Security Agencies: Secret Service, FBI, etc. for security purposes
• Public with Receivers: Technically, anyone with a Remote ID receiver can pick up the broadcast signals

Addressing Privacy Concerns

Many pilots initially worried that Remote ID would enable tracking of their home address or personal information. However:

• Remote ID broadcasts the control station location, not your home address
• Serial numbers don’t directly reveal personal information
• Registration information (linking serial numbers to owners) is only accessible to authorized government entities
• You can take off from public parks or fields rather than your backyard to maintain location privacy

Remote ID and Tactical/Sensitive Operations

Law enforcement and government agencies using drones for surveillance or tactical operations can apply for special authorization to operate without broadcasting Remote ID. This ensures sensitive operations aren’t compromised while maintaining accountability through alternative means.

Technical Requirements and Performance Standards

Remote ID systems must meet specific technical standards:

Broadcast Requirements

• Transmission Rate: At least once per second
• Range: Sufficient for the intended operation
• Protocols: Must use FAA-approved transmission protocols (typically Bluetooth 4.0+ or Wi-Fi)
• Accuracy: Location accuracy within specific tolerances

Message Elements

Each Remote ID message must include all required data elements in the format specified by the FAA. This ensures consistency and interoperability across different manufacturers and systems.

Checking Your Compliance Status

For Existing Drones

To determine if your drone complies:

• Check the manufacturer’s website for Remote ID firmware updates
• Look for Remote ID settings in your drone’s app or controller
• Check the FAA’s declaration of compliance database
• Contact the manufacturer’s support if uncertain

Verifying Remote ID Is Working

You can verify your Remote ID is broadcasting using:

• Manufacturer Apps: Many drone apps show Remote ID status
• Third-Party Apps: Apps like “DroneScanner” or “OpenDroneID” can detect and display Remote ID broadcasts
• Smartphone Capabilities: Some smartphones can detect Remote ID signals via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi

Regularly checking ensures your compliance system is functioning correctly.

Enforcement and Penalties

The FAA takes Remote ID compliance seriously. Operating without proper Remote ID can result in:

• Civil Penalties: Fines up to $32,666 per violation
• Certificate Actions: Suspension or revocation of Part 107 certificates
• Criminal Penalties: In extreme cases involving willful violations

The FAA has stated that education is their initial focus, but enforcement actions will increase as the industry matures and compliance becomes more established.

The Future of Remote ID

UAS Traffic Management (UTM)

Remote ID is the foundation for future UAS Traffic Management systems that will enable:

• Beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations
• Automated drone delivery services
• Higher-density drone operations in urban areas
• Integration with manned aircraft traffic systems

Network Remote ID

The FAA is developing standards for Network Remote ID, which would transmit identification information via internet rather than just local broadcasts. This could enable:

• Greater tracking range
• Better integration with air traffic control systems
• Enhanced security for sensitive operations

Practical Compliance Recommendations

For New Drone Buyers

When purchasing a drone in 2025:

• Verify the drone has built-in Standard Remote ID
• Check that Remote ID can be activated (not disabled or region-locked)
• Understand how to verify Remote ID status in the app
• Keep firmware updated to maintain compliance

For Existing Drone Owners

• Check if firmware updates enable Remote ID on your model
• If updates aren’t available, purchase an FAA-approved broadcast module
• Ensure broadcast modules are properly mounted and powered
• Test Remote ID functionality before commercial operations
• Consider using FRIAs for recreational flying with legacy equipment

For Drone Fleets

Commercial operators managing multiple aircraft should:

• Audit all drones for Remote ID compliance
• Standardize on Remote ID solutions across the fleet
• Implement pre-flight checks that verify Remote ID status
• Maintain documentation of compliance for each aircraft
• Budget for broadcast modules or drone upgrades as needed

Conclusion: Embracing Remote ID as Industry Standard

Remote ID represents a maturation of the drone industry. While it initially seemed like an inconvenience, most operators now recognize it as essential infrastructure for the future of unmanned aviation.

The implementation has been remarkably smooth, with most major manufacturers providing compliance solutions and the FAA establishing FRIAs for legacy equipment. As of 2025, Remote ID is simply part of responsible drone operation—like registration and airspace authorization.

Looking forward, Remote ID will enable capabilities that weren’t possible before: routine BVLOS operations, urban air mobility, and seamless integration with manned aviation. By understanding and complying with Remote ID requirements today, drone operators are contributing to a safer, more capable, and more integrated airspace for tomorrow.

Whether you’re a weekend hobbyist or a professional commercial operator, Remote ID compliance is straightforward, affordable, and essential. Take the time to ensure your equipment is compliant, understand the rules, and fly with confidence knowing you’re part of the solution for safe, responsible drone operations.