So, you have bought your very first drone under $100 at https://letsflywisely.com/best-drones-like-dji-mavic-pro/, what’s next then? Well, there’s actually more to flying a drone than just owning it.
Licence to Operate
Basically, anyone who has a drone needs to secure a drone pilot license before they can fly their drone in public. This license can be obtained through the FAA or the Federal Aviation Administration where they offer Remote Pilot Certificate. All interested pilots should be 16 years old and up and ought to pass the test.
The exam will cost $150 for the exam at any Knowledge Testing Center accredited by the FAA. Assuming that the exam has been passed, the pilot now have to do the FAA Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application or IACRA to complete their pilot certificate. If ever you failed to pass the exam, give it 14 days to retake it.
Now, if the purpose of you buying a drone is solely for recreational purposes, a license may not be necessary. However, for safety purposes make it a point to fly the drone within your line of sight and stick to general rules when flying one.
Register It!
Another thing not to be forgotten is registering your drone. Any small unmanned aircraft system that weighs .55 to 55 pounds should be registered with the FAA to have a registration number. This makes its owners accountable if ever they end up causing injuries or damage power lines while using their drones.
It is fairly easy to register drones with the FAA. This might cost you a nominal fee but the registration covers 3 years of usage.
Familiarize Yourself with the Regulations and Rules
For the safety of everyone, the pilot included, it is essential that you strictly follow the laws that are set for recreational drone usage. Some of the basics include but not limited to the following:
- Fly below 400ft.
- Keep the flight speed 100mph or below
- Fly during daytime only
- Drone should weigh less than 55 pounds
- Maintain a line of sight when flying the drone
- Fly following community guidelines
- Don’t fly from a moving vehicle
