To fly a drone commercially in Texas, 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 Texas
Follow these simple and straightforward steps to easily obtain the drone license:
- Confirm your eligibility for a drone license
- Register to get an FAA Tracking Number
- Sign up for the exam at an FAA Knowledge Testing Center in Texas
- Study diligently for the test
- Take the FAA exam and make sure you pass
- Fill out Form 8710-13
- Register your drone with the FAA
Breaking Down the Steps
1. Confirm your eligibility for a drone license
First, you need to confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements set out by the FAA.
- Be at least 16 years old
- Have a good understanding of English, both written and spoken
- Be physically and mentally fit to ensure safe operation of the drone
- Pass the Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG) exam
For more information, you can visit the official FAA website.
2. Register to get an FAA Tracking Number
To register for the Part 107 exam, you need an FAA Tracking Number (FTN). This unique identifier is assigned to each new pilot. You can acquire an FTN by creating a profile on the Integrated Airman Certificate and Rating Application (IACRA) website.
Complete your registration by adding your personal information and answering security questions. An email confirmation containing your FTN will be sent after registration.
3. Sign up for the exam at an FAA Knowledge Testing Center in Texas
With an active IACRA profile and FTN, you can now register for the Part 107 exam at an FAA Knowledge Testing Center in Texas. The FAA uses a platform called PSI for registering for the test and locating a convenient Testing Center.
Remember, you need a government-issued photo ID to take the exam.
You can take the test at numerous approved Knowledge Testing Centers, like Advanced Testing Center, PSI Examination Services-Houston (Northwest), Innovative Minds – Houston South, and Anson Air LLC. There are plenty more options that you can find on the PSI website.
4. Study diligently for the test
Now, take your time to prepare for the Part 107 exam. Opt for professional resources and trusted courses to help you.
A good prep course usually offers video or text lessons, practice tests, and access to professionals for advice. Many offer a money-back guarantee, refunding the cost of the course and the test fee if you don’t pass.
5. Take the FAA exam and make sure you pass
On the day of the exam, eat a healthy meal and arrive at the testing center on time with your photo ID. The test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, and you’re given two and a half hours to complete it.
Results are posted on PSI after approximately three weeks. If you pass, you can proceed to the next step. If not, you can retake the test after going through the earlier steps.
6. Fill out Form 8710-13
Upon passing the exam, you can apply for your temporary commercial drone license by completing FAA Form 8710-13 on the IACRA website. You need your Knowledge Test Exam ID for this. After filling out the form, sign it electronically and submit it.
The TSA will perform a background check before issuing your temporary license via email. You can print this license and use it until your permanent license arrives in the mail.
7. Register your drone with the FAA
Lastly, register your drone with the FAA. You’ll need to provide your contact details, drone information, and a specific Remote ID serial number if provided by the manufacturer. Registration costs $5 per drone under Part 107, valid for three years. If you’re under 13, someone older must register the drone, and you must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident to register.
Foreign operators’ certificates are considered ownership recognition, not U.S. aircraft registration.
That’s all about the drone licensing process in Texas.
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 Texas. To know about the drone laws in Texas, refer to our easy guide.
And if you’re thinking of taking your drone adventures beyond Texas, 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 Texas?
Yes, you do require a drone license to commercially operate a drone in Texas. 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 Texas?
To fly your drone in Texas, 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.
