Get a drone for Christmas? How to register with the FAA

A drone for Christmas is one of the hottest gifts this year, but don't unwrap and launch it so fast. The Federal Aviation Administration is grounding the popular devices until owners register them.

"Our goal is to make sure that people understand as soon as they start flying outdoors they are essentially pilots," FAA spokesperson, Ian Gregor, said.

Under the new rules launched Monday, drone operators must enter their personal information along with the drone's serial number into an FAA database found on the agencies website.

"It took me less than 10 minutes to register all seven of my drones," Justin Henderson with Drones Plus in Studio City said.

Henderson believes the database is the best way to make sure drone pilots are held accountable.

Right now, regulations ban flying above 400 feet, flying over crowds and too close to airports.

Officials have also banned drones the Rose Parade and the Rose Bowl game, calling the area a "no drone zone."

The FAA requires anyone flying a drone that weighs between a half of a pound and 55 pounds to register it.

The crackdown on the personal flying machines follows the busy holiday shopping season where drone sales are soaring.

Drones Plus has already sold $200,000 in merchandise in December.

"Sales have been great and I expect them to continue especially leading up to the holiday," Henderson said.

You can register your drone here:

https://registermyuas.faa.gov/