What goes on a drone ID plate?

Anyone who flies a drone must label it with their operator ID, also called e-ID. Here we explain clearly what has to go on the plate, what is optional and what no longer applies. The rules apply throughout the EU and in the other EASA countries Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein.

Who needs a drone ID plate?

It is not the drone that is registered, but you as the operator. You must register if your drone

• weighs 250 g or more, or
• has a camera that can capture people, even if it weighs less than 250 g (for example the DJI Mini, Neo or Flip). Toys are exempt.

After registering, you receive your operator ID. It applies to all your drones, and every one of these drones must carry a label with the operator ID (Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947, Article 14).

What has to go on the plate?

Only your operator ID is mandatory, i.e. the registration number you received from your aviation authority. It starts with your country code, for example “DEU” for Germany, “AUT” for Austria or “CHE” for Switzerland.

Important: In your confirmation, the operator ID is followed by a hyphen and three more characters. That is your secret PIN. It does not go on the drone. The German Federal Aviation Office (LBA) gives an example: from “DEU87astrdge12kc-xyz”, only “DEU87astrdge12kc” goes on the drone.

What is optional?

Your name, address or phone number no longer have to be on the drone. Many pilots still have them engraved, because it makes a lost drone easier to return. Our 30 × 10 mm plate has room for up to two extra lines.

Does the plate have to be fireproof?

No. Germany used to require a fireproof plate with name and address. That is over: according to the LBA, a fireproof plate is no longer required under the EU rules. Instead, the operator ID must be attached in a suitable place.

Where do I find my operator ID?

In the registration confirmation sent to you by your aviation authority: in Germany the LBA, in Austria Austro Control, in Switzerland the FOCA (BAZL). In Germany, registration costs €20 for private individuals and €50 for companies.

ID plates from Roboterwerk

Our plates are made of anodised aluminium, permanently laser-engraved and self-adhesive. The smallest size (20 × 8 mm) weighs under 0.3 grams, ideal for small drones too. While you type in your operator ID, the live preview shows you what your plate will look like. We engrave and ship within 24 hours on working days, across Europe.