From capturing photos and videos to racing and everyday fun, drones deliver entertainment and perspective you can’t get with another device. Amateurs and professionals find deep enjoyment as drone pilots, flying their UAVs (uncrewed aerial vehicles) all over the world. If you plan on making money with a drone, however, you’ll need a drone license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
It’s not hard to get a license, but you need to be at least 16 years old. You also have to be proficient in English, meet minimum physical and mental drone operator standards, and pass an FAA exam. Here’s a step-by-step guide for how to get a drone license.
First, do I need a license to fly a drone?
The short answer is: yes. Everyone needs drone certificate, regardless of flying a drone for recreational or commercial purposes.
If you are flying a drone recreationally, you need to take The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST), with basic knowledge on how to fly a drone. This test only takes around 15-30 minutes long and is completely free.
However, if you are recreationally flying a drone that weighs over 250 grams (for reference, a DJI Mavic 3 weighs 895g/31.5oz), you need to register your drone with the FAA. This registration costs only $5, is valid for three years, and you can use the same registration number on multiple drones. Drones are registered at FAADroneZone.
If you are flying a drone for any reason outside of recreational purposes, you will need a Part 107 license from the FAA. This includes being vetted by the FAA with several qualifications, as well as a $160, non-refundable Part 107 test that requires a 70% passing score, covering FAA rules and restrictions and knowledge on how to fly a drone.
Before you can apply for the Part 107 license though, you must meet these basic requirements:
- Be at least 16 years of age
- Be able to read, write, understand, and speak English
- Submit your application to the FAA after passing the Part 107 exam on how to fly a drone responsibly and safely
- Be physically and mentally fit to fly a drone
Before signing up for the knowledge test, you also need to secure an FAA Tracking Number (FTN). This unique code will remain associated with you throughout your aviation career.
For information on this process, visit the FAA Drone Zone website.
How to Get a Drone License: Your Step-by-Step Guide
1. Do I need a license?
Are you flying your drone for personal recreational purposes? No license necessary. If your drone weighs more than 0.55 pounds, however, you need to register it at faa.gov.
If you plan to use your drone for commercial use, even just part-time or freelance, you’ll need a license under FAA Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) Rule (Part 107). Commercial drone pilots can find work in a variety of industries, including real estate photography, freelance videography, aerial surveys, and other situations where a helicopter would be too expensive or too dangerous.
2. Create an account
Once you’re ready to get your drone pilot’s license, the first thing you’ll need is an FAA Tracking Number (FTN). You get this by creating an Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) profile.
3. Study up
Next, you’ll have to pass an aeronautical knowledge test. This test covers questions about drone laws, limitations and flight operation, airspace classifications, flight restrictions, weather, emergency procedures, and more. There are online courses and study guides, including from the FAA itself. You’ll need to score at least 70% to pass.
4. Schedule your exam
Find a local knowledge testing center and schedule your exam. The test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, and you’ll have two hours to complete it. You will need a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or a passport, to register for the exam.
After you pass the test, you’ll receive a 17-digit Knowledge Test Exam ID number. Don’t lose it, because you need it for the next step.
5. Apply for the license
After you pass the exam, go back to the IACRA website and complete FAA Form 8710-13 to get your remote pilot certificate. You can find this under “Start New Application.” Select “Pilot,” and under Certifications, select “Remote Pilot,” then “Other Path Information,” and “Start Application.”
6. Wait
After you submit the application, the TSA will do a background check on you. You’ll get an email once you pass this part of the process, and you’ll receive a temporary drone pilot license you can print.
7. Take off!
Roughly one week after you complete these steps, you’ll receive your physical license in the mail. It’s good for two years, after which you’ll need to pass the test again. Keep your drone pilot license with you any time you fly your drone.
What if I have a pilot’s license?
If you already have a Part 61 pilot’s license certificate for manned aircraft, the approval process is similar. You’ll need to take the FAA Part 107 sUAS ALC-451 course, and then fill out the same 8710-13 form on the IACRA website using the steps listed above.
You’ll have to prove your identity at an FAA Flight Standards District Office, either with an FAA-designated pilot examiner, an airman certification representative, or an FAA-certificated flight instructor.
A new drone once you have your drone license
Adorama has drones of all sizes, from brands like DJI and Autel, plus a variety of drone accessories to help you get the most out of your new hobby, side-gig, or career.
Get started with these Best 9 Drones for Beginners and follow our How to Fly a Drone: A Beginner’s Guide tips.
Feature photo by Ralph (Ravi) Kayden on Unsplash
