Put it on the outside of the drone. FAA rules (14 CFR 48.205) say your registration number must be legible, stay attached for the entire flight, and be displayed on an external surface of the aircraft. A label inside the battery compartment no longer counts; the FAA ended that option in 2019. Any method works, a sticker, engraving or permanent marker, as long as it meets those three tests.
The rule in plain English
- Legible: someone inspecting the drone can read it.
- Attached: it won't fall off during a flight.
- External: visible on the outside, without opening anything.
The FAA doesn't set a font, size or color, and it doesn't require the number on every side. One clear label is enough. You must mark every drone covered by the registration before you fly it. Recreational flyers use one number on all their drones; Part 107 pilots get a separate number for each drone.
Where it fits on DJI drones
- DJI Mini series: the top of the rear body or the underside both work. Keep clear of vents and the vision sensors on the front, back and bottom.
- Air and Mavic: the top shell behind the gimbal or the underside of the body, away from sensors and the battery latch.
- Avata 2 and FPV: the top cover or the underside, away from the downward sensors and the battery bay.
- Arms and props: avoid propellers and folding arms. Labels there wear off or throw the arms out of balance.
Don't cover the Remote ID or serial label printed on the drone by DJI.
What to use
- Vinyl or polyester labels made for outdoor use hold up best. A small label with 3 to 4 mm text fits on a Mini.
- Label makers with laminated tape are a cheap, clean option.
- Fine permanent marker works on light-colored shells; reapply when it fades.
- Engraving is permanent but avoid thin plastic or battery areas.
Clean the spot with isopropyl alcohol first so the label sticks.
What about other info?
Only the registration number is required. Many pilots add a phone number or "If found, call" line so a lost drone can come home. That's optional, and your name isn't required. Some clients and insurers also ask for a policy or asset number on commercial drones; that's their requirement, not the FAA's.
Sub-250 g drones
If you fly a 249 g Mini only for fun, it doesn't need registration and doesn't need a number. Fly it under Part 107, even once, and it must be registered and marked. Battery choice matters too: a Plus battery can push a Mini over 250 g. See sub-250 g drone rules.
Don't forget the certificate
The label on the drone isn't proof of registration. Carry the certificate, on paper or on your phone, and show it to law enforcement if asked. You can download it from FAADroneZone. See how to look up your registration.
Rules current as of October 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. The FAA's registration page has the current rules.
Haven't registered yet? Start with FAA registration.
Related guides
- Does the DJI Air 3 have Remote ID? Serial number and FAA registration
- Does the DJI Air 3S have Remote ID? Serial number and FAA registration
- Does the DJI Avata 2 have Remote ID? Serial number and FAA registration
- Does the DJI Flip have Remote ID? Serial number and FAA registration
- Does the DJI Mavic 3 Classic have Remote ID? Serial number and FAA registration
- Does the DJI Mavic 3 Pro have Remote ID? Serial number and FAA registration
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