With the rapid growth of drone technology, drones have become more common in various uses, such as photography, agriculture, and recreational purposes. Understanding how to legally register your drone is a fundamental responsibility for every drone enthusiast and operator.
Since June 20, 2022, the Japanese government requires that all drones weighing 100 grams or more be registered. Flying an unregistered drone can lead to penalties, including fines up to 500,000 yen or imprisonment for up to one year.
This article will walk you through the importance of registering your drone, the registration process, necessary documents, costs, and things to keep in mind, helping you navigate the process smoothly and ensure legal compliance for safe flying.
Why Register a Drone?
The drone registration system was introduced to:
- Increase airspace safety: Prevent drones from interfering with manned aircraft.
- Prevent illegal uses: Avoid drones being used for activities like espionage or terrorism.
- Ensure accountability: Allow authorities to track and trace the owner in case of incidents.
Therefore, registering your drone is not only a legal requirement but also a social responsibility for all drone operators.
Who Needs to Register a Drone?
According to Japan’s Aviation Law, drones that meet the following criteria must be registered:
- Drones weighing 100 grams or more: This includes all types of drones such as multi-rotor, fixed-wing, etc.
- Model airplanes used for flying: Even model airplanes must be registered if they meet the weight requirement.
Note that drones weighing less than 100 grams (such as toy drones) are currently exempt from registration, but it is still advised to follow basic safety guidelines when flying.
How to Register Your Drone
In Japan, drone registration is done through the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism (MLIT) via the “Drone Information Platform System 2.0” (DIPS 2.0). Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
Before you begin, make sure you have the following documents ready:
- Personal identification: Such as a “My Number Card” for Japanese residents, passport, or residence card for foreigners.
- Drone details: Including the model, manufacturer, serial number, etc.
- Contact information: Valid email address and phone number.
Step 2: Apply Online
Go to the “Drone Information Platform System 2.0” website and fill in the application form, uploading the documents listed above as instructed.
Step 3: Verify Your Identity
The system will require you to verify your identity. Japanese residents can use their “My Number Card” for online verification, while foreigners will need to upload a copy of their passport or other identification documents.
Step 4: Pay Registration Fees
Registration fees vary depending on the method of identity verification and application type:
- Online application with “My Number Card”: 900 yen for the first registration, 890 yen for additional registrations.
- Online application with passport or other ID: 1450 yen for the first registration, 1050 yen for additional registrations.
- Paper application: 2400 yen for the first registration, 2000 yen for additional registrations.
Payment can be made via credit card, online banking, or bank transfer.
Step 5: Obtain Your Registration ID
Once you complete the registration, the system will send you a unique registration ID. You must display this ID on your drone in a visible location for identification purposes.
Step 6: Install Remote ID Feature
All registered drones are required to have a Remote ID feature. This allows the drone to broadcast its identity and location via radio waves during flight, ensuring airspace safety.
Ensure that your drone supports Remote ID and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to set it up.
Other Related Regulations and Recommendations
In addition to registration, drone operators must comply with the following regulations:
- Restricted areas: Drones are prohibited from flying near airports, government buildings, military facilities, and other sensitive locations. Special permission is required for these areas.
- Flight height and distance: The maximum allowable flight height is 150 meters, and drones should not fly over crowds.
- Flight times: It is recommended to fly drones during daylight hours and avoid night flights.
- Flight logs: Keep a log of each flight, including the time, location, and purpose.
While insurance is not mandatory for drone flight in Japan, it is strongly recommended to purchase third-party liability insurance in case of accidents.
Conclusion
Registering your drone in Japan is a legal requirement and an essential step in ensuring safe and responsible flying. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can complete your registration process and enjoy a safe and legal drone experience.
