How To Get Federal Aviation Administration Drone License?

Flying drones has become incredibly popular, from hobbyists capturing stunning aerial footage with DJI Mini 4 Pro quadcopters to professionals using FPV systems for racing or cinematic shots. However, to fly legally in the United States, you must comply with regulations set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The “FAA drone license” typically refers to either the free TRUST certificate for recreational pilots or the Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate for commercial operations. This guide walks you through the process step by step, ensuring you can safely operate UAVs, micro drones, or even advanced models with GPS and obstacle avoidance sensors.

Whether you’re into aerial filmmaking with gimbal cameras, mapping with autonomous flight tech, or simply enjoying racing drones, understanding these requirements is essential. All drones weighing more than 0.55 pounds (250 grams) must be registered, and pilots need certification depending on their intent. Let’s break it down logically.

Understanding FAA Drone Regulations: Recreational vs. Commercial

The FAA distinguishes between recreational and commercial drone flying, each with specific rules under Part 107 for pros and simpler guidelines for hobbyists.

Recreational Flying Requirements

If you’re flying for fun—like testing stabilization systems on a quadcopter or practicing FPV maneuvers—you fall under recreational rules. Key obligations include:

• Drone Registration: Any drone over 0.55 lbs must be registered online via the FAA’s DroneZone portal for $5, valid for three years. You’ll receive a registration number to affix to your drone.
• The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST): This free, online knowledge test covers basic safety rules, airspace awareness, and weather effects on flight. It’s available through approved providers like FAA-approved apps or websites. Complete it once, get a digital certificate, and carry it while flying (digitally or printed).
• Flight Rules: Fly below 400 feet, keep visual line of sight (VLOS), yield to manned aircraft, and avoid restricted areas like airports or national parks.

TRUST takes about 30 minutes and doesn’t expire, making it accessible for beginners experimenting with micro drones or sensors.

Commercial Operations Under Part 107

For paid work, such as aerial filmmaking with 4K gimbal cameras, inspections using thermal imaging, or remote sensing, you need a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. This is the “true” FAA drone license, involving testing and recurrent training. Commercial pilots can fly beyond VLOS in some cases, at night (with waivers), or over people with approved drones like certain DJI Mavic models.

Non-U.S. citizens can apply but must pass the same exam. Always check the FAA’s B4UFLY app for real-time airspace info before takeoff.

Step-by-Step Guide to Drone Registration

Registration is the first hurdle for all pilots and applies to drones used in flight technology demos, navigation testing, or casual shoots.

1. Determine Drone Weight: Weigh your UAV. If under 0.55 lbs (e.g., tiny FPV systems), no registration needed for recreational use. Heavier models, like those with optical zoom cameras, require it.

2. Create an FAA Account: Visit FAADroneZone.faa.gov. Sign up with your email and personal details.

3. Submit Registration: Pay $5 online. For multiple drones, register once as an individual or organization and label each drone with the number.

4. Mark Your Drone: Use permanent marker or labels on the exterior. For racing drones, place it under the battery compartment.

5. Renewal: Set reminders—registration expires after three years. Update if you sell or lose the drone.

Pro tip: Keep receipts and certificates handy, especially for accessories like propellers or batteries that might affect weight. Registered drones enable safer integration with AI follow mode.

Obtaining Your TRUST Certificate for Recreational Pilots

TRUST is quick and free, ideal for newcomers into aerial filmmaking or tech innovation.

How to Take the TRUST Test

• Choose an FAA-approved provider (list on FAA.gov).
• Study modules on drone safety, emergency procedures, and reading sectional charts.
• Pass with 100% (open-book, multiple-choice).
• Download your certificate immediately—print or save to your phone.

Carry it during flights, as FAA inspectors may request it. TRUST pairs perfectly with apps for controllers or cases in your drone kit.

Many complete it before unboxing their first GoPro Hero Camera for FPV feeds.

Earning a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

For commercial aspirations, Part 107 is comprehensive, covering advanced topics like airspace classes and physiology.

Eligibility and Preparation

• Be at least 16 years old.
• Read/speak English.
• Study the FAA’s Remote Pilot Knowledge Test Guide (free PDF). Topics include:
• Regulations (60% of test)
• Airspace (15%)
• Weather (11%)
• Loading/performance (7%)
• Operations (7%)

Use prep courses from King Schools or Pilot Institute (FAA-approved). Practice with sample questions on regulations for obstacle avoidance.

Scheduling and Taking the Knowledge Test

1. Get an FAA Tracking Number (FTN): Apply via IACRA.faa.gov.
2. Schedule Exam: Find a PSI testing center (unmanned knowledge test). Cost: $175.
3. Test Day: 60 questions, 2 hours, 70% pass. Bring ID and FTN—no personal electronics.
4. Results: Instant pass/fail. Passing score? Apply for your certificate.

Application and Issuance

• Log into IACRA, submit Form 8710-13.
• FAA verifies (10 days), issues temporary certificate via email.
• Permanent plastic card arrives in 6-8 weeks.

With Part 107, unlock cinematic shots, flight paths, and creative techniques commercially.

Maintaining Compliance and Renewing Your Certifications

Certifications aren’t set-it-and-forget-it.

• TRUST: Lifetime valid.
• Part 107: Renew every 24 months with free online recurrent training (no test).
• Registration: Renew every 3 years.
• Logbook: Track flights, maintenance (e.g., controllers).
• Waivers: For beyond-VLOS or night ops, apply via DroneZone.

Stay updated via FAA newsletters. Common pitfalls: Flying in controlled airspace without LAANC authorization or ignoring TFRs (Temporary Flight Restrictions).

Advanced Tips for Pros

Integrate mapping software or autonomous modes post-certification. Use cases for thermal cameras in agriculture or GoPro Hero Camera for inspections. Always prioritize safety—drones with advanced sensors reduce risks.

Insurance, Community, and Next Steps

While not required, drone insurance (e.g., via Verifly) protects against liability. Join communities like DronePilots or FAA forums for tips on apps.

In summary, start with registration and TRUST for fun, escalate to Part 107 for pay. Master these, and you’ll soar legally with any UAV, from micro drones to pro rigs. Safe flying!