To fly a drone commercially in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island
Follow these simple and straightforward steps to easily obtain the drone license:
- Check the FAA’s eligibility rules for drone operation
- Create an IACRA account and request an FTN
- Register for the exam at a Knowledge Testing Center in Rhode Island
- Commit time to studying for the test
- Sit for and pass the Part 107 exam
- Submit Form 8710-13 for license
- Register your drone with the FAA
Breaking Down the Steps
1. Check the FAA’s eligibility rules for drone operation
First, check if you fit into the FAA’s eligibility criteria for drone operation.
- Age must be at least 16 years old
- Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English
- Valid government-issued identification card needed to confirm age and identity
- Good physical and mental health — note that being free from any health conditions that may hinder the ability to fly a drone is necessary
- Good spatial awareness and hand-eye coordination are vital
For more information, you can visit the official FAA website.
2. Create an IACRA account and request an FTN
Next, you need to create an account on the Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) website and request an FAA Tracking Number (FTN). This number is needed to book your exam at a Knowledge Testing Center.
Registration on IACRA is free. After registering, an FTN will be sent to you.
3. Register for the exam at a Knowledge Testing Center in Rhode Island
With your FTN in hand, register for the Part 107 exam at one of the FAA Knowledge Testing Centers available across the country. Use the PSI website to find a testing center in Rhode Island. You’ll need to verify your eligibility and create an account to register.
Once you’ve registered, you’ll get an email confirmation. Log into the PSI website and choose a convenient date and time at your chosen Testing Center.
You can take the test at numerous approved Knowledge Testing Centers, like Auburn Training and Testing Center, New Horizon Aviation Inc. -Norwood, Bridgewater State University, and Fall River Training and Testing Center. There are plenty more options that you can find on the PSI website.
4. Commit time to studying for the test
Commit some time to prepare for the test. Remember, the Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG) exam costs $165 each time you take it.
Don’t let nerves get in the way or neglect your study. Failing the exam means shelling out more money to take it again.
5. Sit for and pass the Part 107 exam
Now, it’s time to take the Part 107 exam, the next step towards your Remote Pilot Certificate. Make sure to prepare well: map out your route to the Testing Center, have a good meal, and go through your study materials again. Don’t forget to bring a valid ID.
The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions. You’ll have two and a half hours to complete it. A score of at least 70% is considered passing.
6. Submit Form 8710-13 for license
Congratulations if you’ve passed the exam! Next, you should apply for your temporary commercial drone license. Submit the completed FAA Form 8710-13 through IACRA. This temporary license allows you to start operating drones while you wait for your official license in the mail.
TSA will review your application, and if successful, IACRA will email you a confirmation with a printable commercial license. The FAA’s processing time typically takes six to eight weeks.
7. Register your drone with the FAA
Finally, register your drone with the FAA. You’ll need your physical and mailing addresses, email, phone number, drone make and model, and a specific Remote ID serial number if provided by the manufacturer. Registration for Part 107 costs $5 per drone and lasts for three years.
Remember, you must be 13 years or older to register a drone. If you are a foreign operator, the FAA considers the certificate issued as a recognition of ownership, not a certificate of U.S. aircraft registration.
That’s all about the drone licensing process in Rhode Island.
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 Rhode Island. To know about the drone laws in Rhode Island, refer to our easy guide.
And if you’re thinking of taking your drone adventures beyond Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island?
Yes, you do require a drone license to commercially operate a drone in Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island?
To fly your drone in Rhode Island, 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.
