2024 Drone Rules in China… anyone tried registering yet?

So I just read up on the new 2024 drone rules in China, and it looks like a lot has changed. All drones need to be registered with your real name now, no matter how small, and the max altitude is capped at 120 meters unless you get special permission. Has anyone actually gone through the registration process? It sounds a bit complicated, especially needing a WeChat account and Chinese phone number.

Yep, I went through it recently. Definitely need a Chinese phone number and WeChat for it. The registration is all in Chinese too, so unless you can read it or have someone to help, it’s a bit tough.

Faithjone said:
Yep, I went through it recently. Definitely need a Chinese phone number and WeChat for it. The registration is all in Chinese too, so unless you can read it or have someone to help, it’s a bit tough.

That’s what I was worried about… sounds like I’ll need a local friend to help. Did you register on the CAAC website?

@Ashton
Exactly, it’s on the CAAC site: https://uas.caac.gov.cn/. But yeah, it’s only in Chinese and requires verification through WeChat.

Wait, so the altitude limit is strictly 120 meters now? What if I want to go higher?

Lennon said:
Wait, so the altitude limit is strictly 120 meters now? What if I want to go higher?

Yep, 120 meters is the max for most areas unless you get airspace approval. But only licensed drone pilots can apply for that.

@Ashton
Oh wow, so they really cracked down on this. Guess I’ll have to stick to lower altitudes then…

Is there a way to know exactly where I can or can’t fly? I’ve heard of places where even locals are unsure about drone rules.

Zee said:
Is there a way to know exactly where I can or can’t fly? I’ve heard of places where even locals are unsure about drone rules.

Best bet is to check DJI’s map for no-fly zones, but even then, it’s not always accurate. Some areas, like Shanghai, require separate permission on top of registration.

@Ashton
Gotcha. Guess I’ll have to check local restrictions or maybe ask around when I get there.

I heard you have to take photos of your drone for the registration. Anyone know if that’s true?

Ash said:
I heard you have to take photos of your drone for the registration. Anyone know if that’s true?

Yep, you’ll need two photos: one of the whole drone and one showing the serial number (usually found in the battery compartment). You upload those during the process.

@Ashton
Good to know, thanks for the heads-up!

Anyone know if airport customs will stop you if your drone’s not registered? I’m just passing through China and don’t plan to fly it there.

Brice said:
Anyone know if airport customs will stop you if your drone’s not registered? I’m just passing through China and don’t plan to fly it there.

You should be fine! Customs doesn’t usually check for registration unless you’re flying it in China. If it’s just passing through with you, you don’t need to worry.

@Ashton
Thanks, that’s a relief. I didn’t want to deal with registration for a quick layover!