To fly a drone commercially in Oregon, 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 Oregon
Follow these simple and straightforward steps to easily obtain the drone license:
- Understand the FAA’s criteria
- Create your IACRA account for acquiring your FAA Tracking Number
- Find and register for your exam at a Knowledge Testing Center
- Buckle down and prepare for your exam
- Take the Part 107 test and make sure you pass
- Submit Form 8710-13 and await your certificate
- Don’t forget to register your drone with the FAA
Breaking Down the Steps
1. Understand the FAA’s criteria
Start by understanding the FAA’s criteria.
- Be physically and mentally fit
- Be proficient in English, regardless of age
- Be at least 16 years old
- All requirements are designed to ensure safe operation of a drone
Make sure you meet all these criteria before proceeding to the next steps.
For more information, you can visit the official FAA website.
2. Create your IACRA account for acquiring your FAA Tracking Number
Once you’ve made sure you meet the FAA’s criteria, create an account on the Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) website. This account will allow you to acquire your FAA Tracking Number (FTN), which you’ll need later in the process. Be sure to keep your IACRA account login details handy.
After setting up your account, you can request your FTN on the IACRA website.
3. Find and register for your exam at a Knowledge Testing Center
Next, locate a Knowledge Testing Center where you’ll take your FAA exam. You can find a center near you by searching on the PSI website. You’ll need to register for the exam through a PSI account.
After setting up your account and providing your full name and FTN, you can register for your FAA exam.
You can take the test at numerous approved Knowledge Testing Centers, like Hillsboro Aero Academy – Troutdale Center, PSI Examination Services-Portland, American Flight Schools, and PSI Examination Services-Wilsonville. There are plenty more options that you can find on the PSI website.
4. Buckle down and prepare for your exam
Now it’s time to study for your exam. Though the FAA provides free study materials online, many aspiring commercial pilots find online drone schools helpful. These schools offer Part 107 prep courses designed to ensure you understand the FAA’s drone flight rules.
Although you can retake the exam as needed, each attempt costs $165, so passing the first time is beneficial.
5. Take the Part 107 test and make sure you pass
On the test day, remember to bring a government-issued photo ID to the Knowledge Testing Center. Try to relax and get a good night’s sleep beforehand. You’ll have two and a half hours to answer the 60 multiple-choice questions.
You need to score at least 70 percent to pass, and your test results will be posted on the IACRA website within three weeks.
6. Submit Form 8710-13 and await your certificate
After passing the test, you’ll need to submit Form 8710-13 through your IACRA account to request your certificate. Once you submit the form, IACRA will provide you with a temporary printable version of your Remote Pilot Certificate.
The FAA will process your application and send your license by mail, which may take more than a month. Meanwhile, you can use your temporary license.
7. Don’t forget to register your drone with the FAA
Lastly, don’t forget to register your drone with the FAA. You’ll need to provide your contact information, drone make and model, and pay a registration fee of $5 per drone. This registration is valid for three years.
You must be at least 13 years old, a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident to register a drone. For foreign operators, the FAA issues a recognition of ownership instead of a certificate of U.S. aircraft registration.
That’s all about the drone licensing process in Oregon.
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 Oregon. To know about the drone laws in Oregon, refer to our easy guide.
And if you’re thinking of taking your drone adventures beyond Oregon, 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 Oregon?
Yes, you do require a drone license to commercially operate a drone in Oregon. 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 Oregon?
To fly your drone in Oregon, 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.
