Faculty and Staff

Faculty Steps To Fly a UAS For Research

1. If you do not already own an aircraft, please contact the Export Control and International Compliance office before purchasing as the regulations and controls surrounding UAS' are constantly evolving (especially if you are working on a federally funded project). 
2. Take and pass the FAA Part 107 UAS Knowledge Exam and obtain your Part 107 certification.

Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

To be eligible to get your Remote Pilot Certificate, you must be:

• At least 16 years old
• Able to read, write, speak, and understand English
• Be in a physical and mental conditions to safely fly a UAS

Review Knowledge Test Suggested Study Materials provided by the FAA.

Create an Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) profile prior to registering for the knowledge test.

Take the Knowledge Test at an FAA-approved Knowledge Testing Center

Once you have passed your test, for a remote pilot certificate (FAA Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application) login the FAA Integrated Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application system (IACRA)* to complete FAA form 8710-13.

Review the full process to get your Remote Pilot Certificate.

Register your Drone with the FAA

Registration costs $5 and is valid for 3 years. You'll need a credit/debit card and the make/model of your drone to register your drone with the FAA.

• Create an account and register your drone at FAADroneZone
  • Select "Fly UAS under Part 107"
• Once you've registered, mark your drone (PDF) with your registration number.
• Beginning September 16, 2023, if your drone requires an FAA registration number it will also be required to broadcast Remote ID information (unless flown within a FRIA). 
• For more information, visit How to Register Your Drone.
• If you have an international visitor flying their foreign-registered drone, please visit: International UAS Operators in the United States