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To check the Remote ID of your drone in Portugal, first identify the aircraft class and the category of operation. Then consult the manual and confirm the operator details in the remote identification system. Do not use a tutorial about North American rules as proof of compliance with European rules.
Remote ID, operator registration, pilot certificate and the search function for a lost drone have different purposes. A serial number or an A1/A3 certificate does not replace the operator number required by the system.
What is direct remote identification?
The EASA explains that remote identification makes it possible to obtain information about an aircraft in operation without physically accessing the equipment. The information transmitted may include identifiers and positions, in accordance with the applicable requirements.
This is not the same as a personal tracker for recovering a missing drone. If you want to prepare for a search, keep the records and consult the documentation for your model’s location function. Do not conclude that Remote ID guarantees an accessible position when the aircraft stops functioning.
When is it required in Portugal?
The ANAC communication on remote identification distinguishes the requirements in the open category, the specific category and geographical zones. It should not be summarised as “all drones always need it” or as “below 250 g it is never needed”.
| Situation | Main check |
|---|---|
| C1, C2 or C3 in the open category | Remote identification system active and up to date |
| C0 or C4 in the open category | Geographical zone conditions, including any remote identification requirement |
| Older drone without a class | Operation framework and zone conditions, without assigning a class based on weight |
| Specific category | Applicable remote identification requirements and operating conditions |
For the specific category, also consult the official EASA page. An additional module should be chosen on the basis of documented compliance and the operation framework, not just the “Remote ID” label in a shop.
Check the class and equipment support
Check the label on the aircraft, the EU declaration of conformity and the manual for the version you have. The guide to C0, C1 and C2 classes helps distinguish this task from pilot training.
Check whether remote identification is integrated or whether you need a device compatible with the intended framework. If you install a module, assess the weight, installation and configuration against the applicable documentation. Do not assume that adding a module changes the class or makes any operation permissible.
Enter the correct number
The ANAC Registry FAQs distinguish the identification visible on the airframe from the complete string used for Remote ID. ANAC states that the final three secret characters must not be placed in the external identification; the complete string is entered in the remote identification system.
Copy the details from your official account and follow the relevant instruction, without publishing screenshots that show the complete code. Do not use another operator’s number or invent a combination to make a warning disappear.
If you do not yet have the applicable registration, consult the ANAC registration guide. The technical configuration does not replace the registration process.
Check the configuration on the ground
The DJI guide to Remote ID in the European Union sets out procedures that depend on the equipment. Use the section and manual for your model, without assuming that the menu of an Enterprise product is available on a consumer DJI.
- Check that the app and firmware are supported.
- Find the configuration documented by the manufacturer.
- Check the operator details and save the configuration.
- Check the status and warnings shown in the preparation procedure.
- If an error persists, suspend the operation and ask the manufacturer or the competent authority for clarification.
A warning disappearing from the screen does not, by itself, demonstrate that the entire operation complies. If remote identification is required for that flight, do not disable the system or use informal changes to bypass the error.
Complete the preparation
Review the geographical zones, permissions for image capture and the pilot documentation. Keep the operator details up to date and protect the secret elements. Remote identification is one part of preparation, not a flight authorisation.
Official sources consulted on 10 October 2026. Informative guide for Portugal and the European framework; the rules and conditions of the specific operation take precedence. Illustrative image.
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