To set up a DJI Mini 5 Pro: take off the storage cover, press the power button once to wake the battery, then unfold the arms. Unfolding the right rear arm turns the drone on. Fit the controller sticks, connect your phone to the RC-N3 (or power on the DJI RC 2), and follow the DJI Fly prompts to activate the drone and install updates. Then you're ready for a first flight.
1. Prepare the drone
- Storage cover: remove it before power-on. DJI says leaving it on can affect the self-check. Put it back when you pack up.
- Battery: it ships asleep. Press the power button once to activate it. If you don't fly soon after, it can go back to sleep; press the button again or charge it.
- Arms: unfold all four arms and the propellers.
2. Power on and off
- Auto on: unfolding the right rear arm turns it on (default).
- Auto off: folding the right rear arm starts a power-off countdown. Press any button on the drone to cancel.
- Manual: press the power button once, then press and hold.
Auto power-on doesn't work while a USB-C cable is plugged in, and folding won't power it off during downloads or a firmware update.
3. Prepare the controller
DJI RC-N3 (standard kit):
- Screw in the control sticks from the storage slots.
- Pull out the phone holder. The USB-C cable is fitted by default.
- Connect the end without the controller logo to your phone. On Android, choose charge only if asked.
- Press, then press and hold the power button.
DJI RC 2 (Fly More Combo): fit the sticks, unfold the antennas, power on and follow the prompts to activate it on Wi-Fi.
4. Activate and update
With the drone and controller on, open DJI Fly and follow the activation prompts. You need internet. Install any firmware update when asked, since some features need it. See Mini 5 Pro firmware update.
5. Know the US rules
- With the standard battery, the Mini 5 Pro is under 250 g, so recreational flights need no FAA registration.
- With the heavier Battery Plus, it's over 250 g and must be registered.
- Pass the free TRUST test and carry proof.
- Check airspace with B4UFLY or Aloft before each flight.
- Flying for business? You need Part 107 and registration at any weight.
6. Pre-flight check
DJI's checklist, short version: protective parts off, battery and props secure, everything charged, arms unfolded, gimbal and camera working, lenses and sensors clean, DJI Fly connected, and obstacle avoidance, max altitude, max distance and RTH altitude set for your area.
7. First flight
- Pick an open area away from people, cars, trees and wires. Set the drone down with its rear facing you.
- Wait for the self-check and the Home Point recorded prompt.
- Tap auto takeoff, then press and hold to confirm. It lifts off and hovers.
- Practice gentle moves in Normal mode. Cine mode is slower for smooth video. Sport mode turns off obstacle avoidance.
- Land with auto landing, or hover over flat ground and hold the left stick down until the motors stop.
- Turn off the drone before the controller.
DJI rates flight time at 36 minutes with the standard battery in lab conditions. Land with a healthy reserve. More on RTH: Mini 5 Pro home point.
Manual PDF and tutorials
The user manual, quick start guides for the RC-N3 and RC 2, and DJI Assistant 2 are on DJI's Mini 5 Pro downloads page. Tutorial videos are at dji.com/mini-5-pro/video.
Packing up
Fold the arms (this starts the auto power-off), clip the storage cover back on, and charge the batteries before storage.
Next: record video and photos or transfer files to your phone. Shop the DJI Mini 5 Pro.
Rules current as of October 2026. This is general information, not legal advice.
Related guides
Not sure which to pick?
Tell us what you'll fly and your budget. One of our drone pilots will reply with a recommendation.
Buying drones for a business, agency or store? Get wholesale pricing →
