Who Needs to Register a Drone in Canada?
Under the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) Part IX, you must register your drone (remotely piloted aircraft system, or RPAS) with Transport Canada if it weighs between 250 grams and 25 kilograms and you intend to fly it outdoors.
Registration Requirements by Weight
Your Drone Registration Number
When you register your drone through Transport Canada's Drone Management Portal, you receive a registration number in the format:
The number begins with C-F followed by four digits. This is the number that must be marked on your drone.
How to Mark Your Drone
Transport Canada requires that your registration number be:
Marking Specifications
Why Use Professional Registration Labels?
Weatherproof
Our labels withstand rain, snow, UV exposure, and temperature extremes. Permanent marker fades; our labels don't.
Legible
Crisp, high-contrast text that meets Transport Canada's readability requirement. No smudged handwriting.
Durable
Premium vinyl rated for 5+ years of outdoor exposure. Outlasts your drone.
Compliant
Pre-formatted with the correct C-F registration number. Validated before production.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Flying an unregistered or improperly marked drone in Canada can result in:
- Fines up to $1,000 for individuals (up to $5,000 for corporations)
- Suspension of your pilot certificate
- Seizure of your drone
- Criminal charges in cases of reckless operation
Drone Registration Labels
From $14.99 CAD — Ships 1-2 business days
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to register my DJI Mini?
If your DJI Mini weighs under 250g (like the Mini 4 Pro at 249g), you do NOT need to register it. However, if you add accessories that push it over 250g, registration is required.
Can I use a permanent marker instead of a label?
Technically yes, but Transport Canada requires the marking to remain legible throughout the drone's operational life. Permanent marker fades with UV exposure and handling. Professional labels are the recommended method.
Where exactly should I put the label on my drone?
The label must be visible without disassembling the drone or removing any covers. Common locations include the top of the drone body, the battery compartment area (visible when battery is installed), or the arm of the drone.
Do I need a separate label for each drone?
Each drone you own must be individually registered and receive its own registration number. If you have multiple drones, each one needs its own label with its specific C-F number.
Can I fly my drone before the label arrives?
Transport Canada requires that your drone be marked with its registration number before flight. We offer fast turnaround and expedited shipping to minimize wait time.
What is the fine for not labelling a drone in Canada?
Fines under the Aeronautics Act can reach $5,000 for individuals and $25,000 for corporations. Transport Canada enforcement officers conduct spot inspections at popular flying sites.
Does my drone label need to be waterproof?
Yes. The marking must remain legible throughout the drone's operational life including rain, humidity, and outdoor conditions. Permanent vinyl labels with UV-resistant ink are required — paper labels will not pass inspection.
What format is the Transport Canada drone registration number?
Transport Canada issues registration numbers in the format PC-XXXXXXXX (PC prefix followed by 8 alphanumeric characters). This must appear exactly as issued on your registration certificate.
Do I need to register a drone I only fly indoors?
If the drone weighs 250g or more, registration is required regardless of whether you fly indoors or outdoors. The CARs Part IX requirement is based on weight, not location of flight.
What happens if I buy a used drone that is already registered?
You must transfer the registration to your name at tc.canada.ca and update the label. Flying a drone registered to someone else exposes you to liability. Registration transfer is straightforward and free.
Is a drone registration label different from a basic operations certificate?
Yes. Registration is for the drone (the physical aircraft). A pilot certificate (basic or advanced) is for the pilot. You need both: a registered drone AND a valid pilot certificate for your operating category.
Can I write my registration number by hand on a drone?
Transport Canada permits permanent marker on the airframe, but the marking must remain legible for the drone's entire operational life. UV exposure and wear cause marker to fade — professional vinyl labels are strongly recommended.
Does the label need to be visible from outside the drone?
Yes. The registration marking must be visible without disassembling the drone or removing any access panels. If your number is inside the battery compartment but the battery must be removed to see it, this does not comply.
Do FPV racing drones under 250g need to be registered?
No. Drones under 250g (including FPV racers) do not require Transport Canada registration. However, you still must follow airspace rules and cannot fly in controlled airspace without authorization.
Order Your Drone Registration Labels
Weatherproof, Transport Canada compliant, fast turnaround. Enter your C-F registration number and we handle the rest.
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