To fly a drone commercially in Colorado, you need to have a drone license (FAA part 107 certification). And to obtain the licence, you must pass a written exam administered by the FAA.
Steps to Get a Drone License in Colorado
Follow these simple and straightforward steps to easily obtain the drone license:
- Verify if you meet the FAA criteria
- Obtain your FTN from the FAA
- Locate the nearest Knowledge Testing Center in Colorado
- Prepare thoroughly for the Part 107 exam
- Sit for and pass the Part 107 exam
- Submit the FAA Form 8710-13 for getting your certificate
- Register your drone with the FAA
Breaking Down the Steps
1. Verify if you meet the FAA criteria
FAA commercial drone pilot eligibility criteria:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Understand English language
- Capable of handling a drone both mentally and physically
- License is not guaranteed just by meeting these criteria
- Must pass the Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG) test, also known as the Part 107 exam
For more information, you can visit the official FAA website.
2. Obtain your FTN from the FAA
To get an FAA Tracking Number (FTN), you need to first register on the FAA’s IACRA website. Registration is free. Check off the relevant roles and agree to the IACRA terms of service.
After registering, fill in your personal details, create a username and password, and select security questions. You’ll receive a confirmation email with a unique FTN.
3. Locate the nearest Knowledge Testing Center in Colorado
For the Part 107 exam, locate the nearest Knowledge Testing Center in Colorado via the PSI website. These centers are FAA-approved. To schedule an appointment, you must have a PSI account. PSI will ask for your FTN to confirm your eligibility.
Once approved, choose a date and time for your Part 107 exam. It’s recommended to schedule a few weeks out to allow ample study time.
You can take the test at numerous approved Knowledge Testing Centers, like PSI Examination Services-Centennial, McAir Aviation, Rocky Mountain Flight School, and Springs Aviation – Peyton. There are plenty more options that you can find on the PSI website.
4. Prepare thoroughly for the Part 107 exam
Prepare well for the Part 107 exam. The exam fee is $165 and you can attempt as many times as you want, so it’s best to pass on the first few tries. Many online drone schools offer prep courses to teach you about the FAA’s drone flight rules.
These courses can help you pass your exam on the first try.
5. Sit for and pass the Part 107 exam
On the day of the test, bring your government-issued photo ID. Rest well, eat a good meal, and arrive early at the Knowledge Testing Center.
The UAG exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and you’ll have two and a half hours to complete it. The passing grade is 70 percent.
6. Submit the FAA Form 8710-13 for getting your certificate
After the exam, wait up to three weeks for your results, which will be available on the IACRA website. If you’ve passed, you can complete Form 8710-13 to get your license. Follow the prompts and sign your application electronically.
You’ll need to input your Knowledge Test Exam ID. This 17-digit code will be under your IACRA profile.
After submitting your application, you’ll undergo a TSA background check. You’ll receive a temporary license via email after the check. You can use this until you receive your Remote Pilot Certificate by mail in six to eight weeks.
7. Register your drone with the FAA
Last step is to register your drone with the FAA. You’ll need your physical and mailing address, email, phone number, drone’s make and model, and Remote ID serial number. Registration costs $5 per drone and is valid for three years.
That’s all about the drone licensing process in Colorado.
For safe drone flying, you need to follow certain rules. These rules come from the FAA, your state, and your town.
The FAA rules are the same everywhere, but each state has its own rules, and so does Colorado. To know about the drone laws in Colorado, refer to our easy guide.
And if you’re thinking of taking your drone adventures beyond Colorado, you can read our guides about getting a drone license in some other states as well:
FAQs
1. Do I require a drone license to operate a drone in Colorado?
Yes, you do require a drone license to commercially operate a drone in Colorado. The license is known as a Remote Pilot Certificate, issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
2. What licenses do I need to fly my drone in Colorado?
To fly your drone in Colorado, you need a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA. Additionally, registration of your drone with the FAA is required if it weighs more than 0.55 lbs.
