Do You Need A License To Fly A Drone In Florida?

Do You Need A License To Fly A Drone In Florida?

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When you hear the word “Drone” some of us may think of  those giant, expensive, crazy drones, like those used by the army called Predator drones, or the big drones with cameras that professional sports broadcasters use.

Thanks to the modern technology that has made drones come in small sizes. Some drones weigh less than a pound which you can buy for less than $500.

Although drone is gaining popularity everywhere in the world, most of us have not understood the product very well. Do you need a license to fly a drone in Florida?

Yes, you need a license to fly a commercial drone in Florida. Unlike the usual byzantine and glacial behavior of the federal government, the FAA has come to accept the rising popularity of drones among the public and came up with a positive response.

The best side of it is that FAA differentiated between recreational and commercial drone operators.

I always advise my friends to differentiate between fun and commercial drone flying.  You don’t want to get into the bad book of the police when you use a drone in places that require a license.

Do You Need A License To Fly A Drone In Florida?

Yes. You have to take The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST), as demanded by FAA before you are allowed to operate a drone for recreational purposes in Florida. FAA also requires you to follow the FAA’s rules on recreational model aircraft.

Do You Need A License To Fly A Drone In Florida?
Do You Need A License To Fly A Drone In Florida?

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is vested with the responsibility of regulating the activities of aircraft operators in America. It is naturally difficult for local authorities to manage the operations of airspace and air travel.

Although local authorities reserve the power to restrict the operations of some types of aircraft, it is the FAA that has the final say when it comes to the regulation of all kinds of aircraft in America, including drones.

When you fly a drone only for fun, it is known as a recreational drone operation.

However, when you fly it for purposes like inspecting rooftops, taking pictures of things and properties you want to sell, or a commercial purpose, FAA demands that you must obtain a certificate under Part 107.

The rule governing the operation of a drone in America seems difficult but, unfortunately, FAA is not a flexible organization that understands.

Imagine looking at your roof for fun, giving a helping hand to your neighbor, or trying to sell your house without an agent, and FAA says it is commercial use.

Before you go for the Part 107 certificate, you have to know the basic principles of airspace and airmanship, basic rules and regulations, and some basic science and meteorology rules. You have to pay $175 for the exam.

You may be afraid of the exam, but there is nothing extraordinary about it. The questions come from things you already know.

Anyway, basic safety rules must be followed, and other people’s privacy must be respected.

Federal Drone Laws In Florida

Every drone in America is regulated by Part 107 rules because drones receive equal treatment with aircraft in the sky of Florida.

The law demands that before you fly any drone weighing between 0.55lbs and 55lbs, you must register it with the FAA. The law applies to both citizens and visitors, and it is for both recreational and commercial operators.

The law clearly states different types of drone users. Go for the FAA Identification tool to know your category and the rules that apply to your category.

Flying Drones Commercially In Florida

The following are the conditions you must meet before you are authorized to operate a drone in America;

  1. Should not be less than 16 years old.
  2. Should be able to read and write in English.
  3. Should be in good physical, and mental health condition.

Next, you have to:

  • Create an IACRA profile to enable you to get an FAA tracking number
  • Take the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge. Go for the test at one of their approved test centers.
  • Complete FAA form 8710-13 to get your Remote Pilot Certificate
  • Register your drone with the FAA.

Flying Drones Recreationally In Florida And Registering With The FAA

Pay no attention to most of the things in the list above if you are flying your drone for fun, but you still need to get the FAA registration.

The cost of registration is $5 and it expires after three years.

You need to write your registration number on your drone immediately after you get your registration details. You will pay a fine of $27,500 if you fly your drone without a registration number.

How To Register Drones In Florida

It is easy to register drones in Florida. The first thing you should do is to visit the website of FAA for details, or you can go to DroneZone, their official drone page.

You will see the steps you should follow displayed on the screen. Follow the steps and get registered either as a recreational or commercial drone operator under Part 107.

Only drones that weigh 250g or 0.55lbs and above are required to be registered. If your drone is a small or a mini-size one like the Mavic Mini or the Mini 2, do not worry about its registration.

Go with your credit or debit card to pay the registration fee of $5.

FAQs

How much is a drone license in Florida?

You should not use a drone within 500 feet of where more than 1,000 people are gathered. You need a permit that will cost you $20 per flight to operate in such places or you pay $150 for an annual permit.

Can a drone fly over my house in Florida?

You have not offended any law if you fly a drone over a house or private property because the airspace belongs to FAA.

Can you stop a drone from flying over your house?

If a drone is illegally flown over your house and you are disturbed by it, report it to the police. If the operator cannot give good reasons for his action or show the authority backing him up, contact the police via 101.

 


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ABOUT ME

I’m Jeff – I’m like a human GPS, but instead of giving you directions, I give you the inside scoop on how to have the time of your life on your next holiday.

As a born & raised Floridian, I know my home state like the back of my hand.

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