To fly a drone commercially in Washington, 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 Washington
Follow these simple and straightforward steps to easily obtain the drone license:
- Verify your eligibility according to the FAA criteria
- Obtain your FTN (FAA Tracking Number)
- Locate the nearest Knowledge Testing Center in Washington
- Dedicate time for studying before the exam
- Sit for the Part 107 exam and ensure you pass
- Fill out and submit the FAA Form 8710-13
- Register your drone with the FAA
Breaking Down the Steps
1. Verify your eligibility according to the FAA criteria
Before applying, ensure you meet this criteria:
- Should be physically and mentally sound
- Able to read, write, understand, and speak English
- Must be at least 16 years old
- Meeting these criteria will allow for proceeding with obtaining the drone license
For more information, you can visit the official FAA website.
2. Obtain your FTN (FAA Tracking Number)
Now, it’s time to get your FAA Tracking Number (FTN) which is a unique identifier provided by the FAA. To get your FTN, create an account on the Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) website.
It’s a straightforward process that’s free and speedy. After registration, request your FTN.
3. Locate the nearest Knowledge Testing Center in Washington
Your third step is to locate a Knowledge Testing Center in Washington where you’ll take the FAA test. The FAA does not offer the test online, so you need to find a testing center.
Once you’ve found a local or semi-local center, book your test for a preferred date and time.
You can take the test at numerous approved Knowledge Testing Centers, like Rainier Flight Service, Galvin Flight Training, Snohomish Flying Service Inc., and Brainseed Testing Center – Bellevue. There are plenty more options that you can find on the PSI website.
4. Dedicate time for studying before the exam
After booking your exam, dedicate enough time for studying to prepare for the FAA test. It’s a challenging test, but with proper preparation, you will be well-positioned to pass the test in your first attempt.
You can choose from a wide range of online drone pilot license courses that suit your budget.
5. Sit for the Part 107 exam and ensure you pass
On the day of the test, make sure you’re well-rested and nourished. Bring your government-issued photo ID and be ready to answer 60 multiple-choice questions about FAA rules and regulations.
You’ll have two and a half hours to answer all the questions and you need to score at least 70 percent to pass.
6. Fill out and submit the FAA Form 8710-13
Once you pass the test, fill out and submit FAA Form 8710-13 on the IACRA website. You’ll need to input your Knowledge Test Exam ID, a 17-digit string found where your results are posted on the IACRA website.
The TSA will conduct a background check, and then you’ll receive your temporary drone license via email from IACRA.
7. Register your drone with the FAA
Your final step is to register your drone with the FAA, which requires some necessary information, including your address, email, phone number, drone’s make and model, and Remote ID serial number. The registration fee is $5 per drone (valid for three years) for Part 107 registration.
Once your drone is registered, you’re all set to start your flying journey.
That’s all about the drone licensing process in Washington.
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 Washington. To know about the drone laws in Washington, refer to our easy guide.
And if you’re thinking of taking your drone adventures beyond Washington, 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 Washington?
Yes, you do require a drone license to commercially operate a drone in Washington. 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 Washington?
To fly your drone in Washington, 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.
