To fly a drone commercially in Indiana, 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 Indiana
Follow these simple and straightforward steps to easily obtain the drone license:
- Confirm your eligibility to obtain a drone license
- Register to get your FAA Tracking Number
- Sign up for the drone license exam at an FAA Knowledge Testing Center
- Hit the books and prepare for the exam
- Sit for the FAA exam and make sure to pass
- Fill out the FAA’s Form 8710-13
- Register your drone with the FAA
Breaking Down the Steps
1. Confirm your eligibility to obtain a drone license
You must first ensure that you’re eligible for a drone license.
- Ensure eligibility for a drone license
- Age must be at least 16 years old
- Proficient in English
- In good physical and mental health to operate a drone
If you check all these boxes, you’re good to go.
For more information, you can visit the official FAA website.
2. Register to get your FAA Tracking Number
Next, you need an FAA Tracking Number (FTN). This special number is unique to you and helps the FAA keep track of your progress.
To get an FTN, simply visit the FAA’s Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) website.
Follow the instructions on the IACRA website to register and keep your login details safe as you will need them later. Request your FTN from the IACRA website after completing the steps.
3. Sign up for the drone license exam at an FAA Knowledge Testing Center
After getting your FTN, it’s time to sign up for the drone license exam. This involves visiting an FAA Knowledge Testing Center.
You can find a list of these centers on the FAA’s website. Pick the one closest to you and book your exam.
You can take the test at numerous approved Knowledge Testing Centers, like Merrillville Training and Testing Center, Griffith Aviation Inc., Eagle Aircraft, and New Horizons Aviation Inc.. There are plenty more options that you can find on the PSI website.
4. Hit the books and prepare for the exam
Now it’s time to study. Grab your drone manual, read up on FAA rules and regulations, and get to grips with any other relevant study materials.
This isn’t just to pass the exam, but to ensure you can fly your drone safely and responsibly.
5. Sit for the FAA exam and make sure to pass
Once prepared, sit for the FAA exam. It will test your knowledge on rules, regulations, and drone operation.
Keep cool and answer to the best of your abilities. Remember, you must pass to move on to the next step.
6. Fill out the FAA’s Form 8710-13
Having passed your exam, fill out the FAA’s Form 8710-13. This form, available on the FAA’s website, is an application for a Remote Pilot Certificate.
Be careful to fill it out accurately. This is the official document that allows you to fly drones legally.
7. Register your drone with the FAA
Finally, you must register your drone with the FAA. This involves providing the FAA with information about your drone, such as its make and model.
Once registered, you’ll receive a unique identification number for your drone. Now, you’re fully legal to fly!
That’s all about the drone licensing process in Indiana.
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 Indiana. To know about the drone laws in Indiana, refer to our easy guide.
And if you’re thinking of taking your drone adventures beyond Indiana, 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 Indiana?
Yes, you do require a drone license to commercially operate a drone in Indiana. 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 Indiana?
To fly your drone in Indiana, 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.
