Time running out to comply with federal law to register drones

If you own a drone weighing more than 0.55 lbs. but less than 55 lbs., and you’ve been flying it outdoors or plan to fly it outdoors for hobby or recreation, federal law requires you to register by this Friday, February 19, 2016. More information is available online at http://www.faa.gov/uas/registration/

Registration is simple. You can register online at FAA.gov– it costs only $5 and is valid for three years. Once you complete the registration process, you will receive a certificate and an FAA registration number which must be marked on all unmanned aircraft that meet the registration weight requirement. You must have your certificate with you when you fly. You can print your certificate or save it to your personal electronic device, like your smartphone, or do both.

More than 342,000 people have already registered. Failure to register with the FAA could result in one or a combination of the following: a civil penalty of up to $27,500; a criminal fine of up to $250,000; imprisonment for up to three years.