What is Remote ID? #
Remote ID is a system that allows drones to transmit identification and location information. This information can be received by other airspace participants, including authorities, pilots and the general public.
Why is Remote ID needed? #
The primary purpose of Remote ID is to enhance drone operations' safety, security, and accountability, particularly in areas where drones may be operating near other aircraft or in sensitive locations. It can also help prevent the unauthorized or even illegal use of drones, such as smuggling, spying, or attacks.
Who is responsible for mandating Remote ID? #
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) are responsible for regulating the use of drones in the US and EU. Both have established a regulatory framework for Remote ID that requires most drones operating in the regions to be equipped with a Remote ID system by a specific date. Other countries may have similar regulatory frameworks in place or are in the process of developing them.
What types of Remote ID exist? #
- Direct / Broadcast Remote ID. It uses Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to broadcast Remote ID data to close surroundings. Naming varies by location: In the EU, Direct Remote ID is used; in the US, it is named Broadcast Remote ID.
- Network Remote ID It uses cellular networks for transmitting data.
Who has to use Direct / Broadcast Remote ID? #
Under new regulations in the US and EU, most drones weighing more than 249 grams (0.55 pounds) must be equipped with a Direct / Broadcast Remote ID system by a certain date. This responsibility applies both to recreational drones and commercially flown drones.
There are exceptions to this obligation for specific types of drone models operated according to specific guidelines or for government and other authorized entities. These exceptions differ across regions.
Besides the US and EU, other countries have adopted similar regulatory frameworks or are currently developing them. Drone operators must know and comply with applicable Remote ID regulations in their regions.
It is also important for drone operators to be aware that Remote ID requirements may vary between EU member states. They must always comply with the specific requirements of the country where they operate.
There are exceptions to this obligation for specific types of drone models operated according to specific guidelines or for government and other authorized entities. These exceptions differ across regions.
Besides the US and EU, other countries have adopted similar regulatory frameworks or are currently developing them. Drone operators must know and comply with applicable Remote ID regulations in their regions.
It is also important for drone operators to be aware that Remote ID requirements may vary between EU member states. They must always comply with the specific requirements of the country where they operate.
Who has to use Network Remote ID? #
Network Remote ID is mandatory for the upcoming EU airspaces called U-space. The main purpose of Network Remote ID is to establish a reliable and secure connection between drones and operators in the U-space (see below). Network Remote ID is fundamental to advanced operations such as BVLOS flights, drone deliveries, and integrating manned and unmanned traffic in the same airspace.
There is currently no Network Remote ID mandate in the US region.
There is currently no Network Remote ID mandate in the US region.
Who can see data broadcasted from my drone? #
Drones’ Direct / Broadcast Remote ID transmits data only to its immediate surroundings. This signal can be captured by anyone with the appropriate equipment, for example, a specialized receiver or mobile application using smartphone hardware. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are the only approved Direct / Broadcast Remote ID technologies.
While with Network Remote ID, your data are shared with relevant authorities, U-space participators, collaborators and service providers. Learn more here.
While with Network Remote ID, your data are shared with relevant authorities, U-space participators, collaborators and service providers. Learn more here.
Can I fly without Remote ID? #
No, unless your operation and drone size fit into one of the exemptions from Remote ID requirements. Failure to comply with the new regulation can result in fines or penalties.
Where can I buy a Remote ID module? How much does it cost? #
Besides drone models with Remote ID capability built in by manufacturers, many companies offer Remote ID add-on devices, which come in various shapes, sizes, and functionalities. These devices have different battery life, Remote ID capabilities, and weight. They may also vary in other factors you must consider before purchasing.
Find the list of companies providing Remote ID solutions in the table below:
Find the list of companies providing Remote ID solutions in the table below:
Disclaimer: The prices and other pieces of information listed on this website are for informational purposes only and may not be accurate or up-to-date. These were obtained from publicly available downloads and may vary depending on a large number of factors. Therefore, we do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided on this website, and we assume no responsibility for any errors or omissions in the pricing data. We recommend you verify the accuracy of all information, especially pricing information, by contacting the relevant companies directly. We do not make any representations or warranties regarding the quality, reliability, or suitability of any product or service listed on this website. You should rely on your own judgment and discretion when making purchasing decisions.
How to avoid someone tracking my drone? #
Remote ID is a new approach to aerial monitoring, much like a license plate for cars. Remote ID will enhance air safety, increase public trust in drones, and enable drone operators to conduct flights previously limited by safety and security concerns. Therefore anyone within a reachable distance and with appropriate equipment can receive Direct / Broadcast Remote ID data.
What is the range of Direct / Broadcast Remote ID? #
There is no universal answer, as many factors influence the range of Remote ID. It depends on the electromagnetic interference from nearby devices, transmission power of the Remote ID system, area of flying (urban/rural), altitude, heading and many others.
The average range can be equivalent to Visual line of sight (VLOS). When you can see the drone, you should receive the data. The standards for Remote ID do not set the specific range for data transmission; it only requires minimal transmission power. That means the signal can be seen in a range of kilometers during ideal conditions, while in non-ideal conditions, only in a radius of hundreds of meters. Find more information in the range specification.
The average range can be equivalent to Visual line of sight (VLOS). When you can see the drone, you should receive the data. The standards for Remote ID do not set the specific range for data transmission; it only requires minimal transmission power. That means the signal can be seen in a range of kilometers during ideal conditions, while in non-ideal conditions, only in a radius of hundreds of meters. Find more information in the range specification.
Which drones have Remote ID? #
Here are examples of drones with Remote ID capabilities built-in. This list is not exhaustive, check with drone manufacturers websites to check which drones have the capability.
Skydio
X2E SDR21V2
2+ SDR35V1
2+ SDR35V2
X2E SDR21V1
Autel Robotics
Dragonfish Standard
Dragonfish PRO
Dragonfish Lite
EVO lite
EVO II
EVO lite+
DJI
DJI Mini 3
DJI AVATA
DJI Mavic 3
DJI Agras T40
DJI Agras T30
DJI Mavic 3 Classic
DJI M300 RTK
DJI M3T
DJI M3E
DJI Mini 3 Pro
DJI Air 2S
DJI M30
DJI M30T
Are new drones going to have the Remote ID inside? #
Yes. As Remote ID becomes a new norm in the coming years, most drones will have Remote ID built in.
How can I comply with Remote ID? #
You can either fly a Remote ID capable drone with this functionality already built-in (called Standard Remote ID drone in US and C-class certified drone in the EU) or fly a drone with the add-on device attached to it. Retrofitting is especially useful for pilots with older or custom-built drones.
What is a Remote ID add-on device? #
Add-on devices are transmitters attached to a drone body. These devices can be powered by their own battery or by a drone. Some can provide Direct / Broadcast Remote ID or also Network Remote ID, depending on their type.
What are Remote ID built-in modules? #
Built-in modules are components installed directly into the drone by the manufacturer. These modules are typically powered by the drone’s main battery and communicate with a flight controller or other external devices.
How to make my old drone Remote ID compliant? #
If the drone manufacturer does not provide your drone with the firmware update, you will have to retrofit your drone with an add-on Remote ID device. These devices vary in size, battery life, weight, Remote ID technology and other specifications.