Drone Registration in India: Full Process & Guide

Drones whether you buy a budget drone camera under 5000, a hobby drone, or a high-end quadcopter have opened a world of possibilities. From aerial photography to agriculture, inspection, and delivery, drones are transforming many industries. But flying a drone legally in India now requires compliance with rules set by DGCA. That means you must follow the process of drone registration India, get a valid UIN, and (if needed) a drone license India before you take off. This guide explains exactly how to register drone in India — step by step.

What Is Drone Registration?

Drone registration means adding your drone to the official registry via the Digital Sky Platform. Once registered, the drone receives a UIN (Unique Identification Number). This helps authorities track drones and ensures every operator follows official safety and compliance standards.

Registration also helps distinguish legitimate drones from unauthorised ones — making skies safer and keeping drone activity transparent.

Types of Drones / UAs (Unmanned Aircraft) in India

Who Needs Drone Registration / Drone License in India?

You must register your drone if:

• It weighs more than 250 grams.
• You plan to use it for commercial or business purposes (deliveries, photography, agriculture, inspections).
• You want to operate your drone under exemptions but still want to maintain compliance.
• You’re buying a new drone through official channels legal drone purchase in India mandates registration.

If you plan commercial use then along with registration, you also need a drone pilot certificate or remote pilot license (RPL) issued by DGCA‑approved training institutes.

Eligibility Criteria & Documents Required for Registration

Eligibility Criteria:

• You must be an adult (18+) and, for commercial use, meet additional guidelines by DGCA.
• The drone must have serial number / OEM certificate.
• For imported drones, valid customs clearance may be required.

Required Documents:

• Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, or Passport)
• Address proof
• Purchase invoice of the drone (showing model, price, OEM details)
• Drone serial number & technical specifications
• Passport‑size photo (for pilot / operator)
• For commercial use: Remote Pilot License & training certificate

Step-by-Step Process to Register Drone in India (via Digital Sky)

1. Visit the Digital Sky Website official website and sign up with valid credentials.
2. Under registration, choose correct category based on drone weight (Micro / Small / etc.).
3. Fill in drone details make/model, serial number, weight, purpose (hobby / commercial).
4. Upload required documents invoice, identity, drone specs.
5. Submit request for UIN registration (for Indian‑made drones) or import drones as applicable.
6. Pay nominal UIN fee (if required).
7. Once approved, you receive the UIN mark it on your drone.
8. If your use requires enroll in DGCA‑approved training for drone license India.
9. Obtain remote pilot certificate / license mandatory for commercial flying > certain height or in restricted zones.

Drone Laws in India & Compliance Requirements

• Always respect No Permission, No Takeoff (NPNT) flights without permission are illegal.
• Do not fly near airports, military zones or restricted air space.
• Maintain line‑of‑sight (unless permitted).
• Follow height limits and payload restrictions as per drone category.
• Renew license / UIN if required, maintain logs for flights, and ensure safety compliance.

Drone Camera Price, Drone Purchase & What Drone to Buy

Whether you want a simple camera drone under 5000 for hobby or a serious aerial rig — registration rules apply. Before buying a drone:

• Check the weight category (Nano / Micro / etc.).
• Ensure it has OEM certificate and serial number.
• Plan for registration and license costs — these add to drone camera price in India.

Buying a best drone camera doesn’t just mean better photos — it also means more responsibility.

Why You Should Follow the Rules: Benefits of Compliance

• Legal safety avoid penalties or confiscation for violating drone laws.
• Access to commercial opportunities photography, agriculture, surveying, delivery services.
• Long‑term viability legal drones can be used for tenders, contracts, and official work.
• Potential for growth with authorization, you may qualify for government grants for small business using drone-based services.

FAQs

Q1. Is drone registration mandatory in India?
Yes as per DGCA rules, drones above 250 g typically need registration and a UIN before flying.

Q2. What is drone license India cost (RPL)?
Cost varies depending on training school — expect somewhere between ₹25,000 to ₹50,000 including training and certification.

Q3. Can I fly a drone for hobby without registration?
Nano drones under 250 g may have exemptions — always check current DGCA drone laws before flying.

Q4. How long does DGCA drone registration take?
Once documents are submitted correctly, approval and UIN issuance normally take a few working days via Digital Sky.

Q5. What if I buy a cheap drone camera under 5000 or under 1000 — do I still need registration?
Yes, if the drone’s weight or intended use demands registration — irrespective of price.

Q6. What happens if I fly an unregistered drone?
Violation may result in heavy fines, drone confiscation, and legal or civil penalties as per drone laws India.

Q7. Is remote pilot license required for photography?
If you fly above certain altitude, or fly commercially (e.g. real estate, surveying), DGCA mandates a drone pilot certificate / RPL.

Q8. Are imported drones allowed?
Yes, but you must complete import clearance, registering through Digital Sky as “Import Drone,” and follow all licensing norms.