Do You Really Need a License for Drone Pressure Washing?
Is a License Necessary?
Flying for Fun? No License Needed If your drone adventures are purely for recreation then you're in the clear. No remote pilot certificate required! Just stick to the basics. Stay below 400 feet, keep your drone in sight, & avoid restricted areas like airports.
Using Drones for Business? Get Licensed! Planning to cash in on your drone skills with commercial gigs like pressure washing? You’ll need the FAA’s Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate to stay on the right side of the law.
The Lowdown on the License
Who Needs It? Commercial drone operators, including those in the pressure washing game. The operator must be at least 16 years old, English-proficient, & capable of safely handling the drone.
Passing the Test The Part 107 Exam isn’t a walk in the park! There are 60 Questions on airspace, weather, & safety. With a challenging 70% Pass Rate, the Part 107 Exam ensures that only well-prepared drone operators can earn their remote pilot certificate.
Staying Certified Your license is good for 2 years. Then it's back to the books for a renewal test.
Recreational Flyers Beware!
TRUST Test Required Even hobbyists must pass the FAA's simple online TRUST exam! Don’t worry, it’s free & a one-time deal.
Avoid Penalties Skipping the license? You could face hefty fines and penalties! Especially if you're caught flying commercially without the proper credentials.
Special Cases & Exceptions
Certain groups like educational institutions may have different rules. Flying in restricted airspace could require special authorization—Even for licensed pilots.
If you’re in the pressure washing business & plan to use drones. FYI securing that Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate isn’t just a good idea—It’s The Law!
Do You Need a License for Drone Educational Content?
Picture This...You’re soaring through the skies with your drone. Capturing breathtaking footage, & teaching others how to do the same. But here’s the catch—are you flying legally? The rules are more nuanced than you might think. Whether you're creating tutorials or educational content. Then knowing when you need a drone license can make or break your next big project.
When You MUST Have a Drone License
Cha-Ching! Monetized Content:
Are you making money from your videos? Whether it's from YouTube ads, paid courses, or any other revenue stream, you’re in the commercial game. To keep flying high & avoid hefty fines, you need a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Yes, Even if it’s “JUST” a Side Hustle!
Sponsored Content:
Did a brand throw some cash your way to feature their product in your educational drone video? That’s commercial use. Get your Part 107 certificate & keep that cash rolling in without a hitch.
Promotional Videos:
Using drone footage to promote your business, service, or product? Whether it’s a flashy ad or an educational tutorial aimed at drawing in customers, you’re in commercial territory. Play it safe with a Part 107 certificate.
When You’re Off the Hook
Non-Monetized Educational Content:
If you're just sharing your love for drones through educational content without making a dime—no ads, no sponsors—you might not need a Part 107 license. Remember, once you start monetizing, you’ll need that certificate.
Hobbyist Heaven:
Flying purely for fun & education? As long as your content remains non-commercial. You’re good to go under the FAA’s recreational guidelines. Just don’t forget the TRUST TEST —It’s a quick online exam to ensure you know the basics of safe flying.
The Gray Areas
Blurred Lines:
The difference between educational and commercial use can get murky. If your educational content indirectly supports a business or could lead to future revenue, it’s safer (& smarter) to get your Part 107 license. Better safe than grounded, right?
FAA Regulations Still Apply:
Even if you're flying recreationally, all the usual FAA rules apply. Keep your drone within sight, respect altitude limits, & steer clear of restricted airspace.
If there’s even a hint of monetization or promotion in your drone content. Make sure your securing a Part 107 license. This is your golden ticket to worry-free flying. Don’t let legal troubles clip your wings—get certified & keep those tutorials soaring!
Pressure Washer Must-Know Rules for Recreational Drone Use
You’ve got a shiny new drone recently. Now you’re ready to hit the skies. But wait—before you take off, are you sure you know the rules? Don’t let your fun fly right into a fine! Here’s the lowdown on what you must do as a recreational drone pilot to stay on the right side of the law.
Think You’re Free to Fly? Not So Fast! Here’s What Every Recreational Drone Pilot MUST Know
Pass the TRUST Test—No Exceptions!
Yes, It’s Mandatory: Think flying a drone is as easy as playing with a toy? Think again. Before you even think about taking off. First you mustpassThe Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). It’s free, online, & covers the basic rules of drone safety. Once you pass, you’ll get a certificate—don’t leave home without it!
Stick to FAA Safety Guidelines—Or Face the Consequences:
Keep Your Drone in Sight: If you can’t see it, you shouldn’t be flying it. Always keep your drone within your visual line of sight, or have someone with you who can.
Stay Under 400 Feet: The sky isn’t the limit! Keep your drone below 400 feet above ground to avoid airspace conflicts.
Avoid Crowds: Flying over people, especially in large groups or at public events? That’s a Big No-No.
Know Your Airspace: Don’t even think about flying near airports or in restricted areas unless you’ve got special permission.
Stay Clear of Emergencies: Don’t be the drone pilot who interferes with emergency responders. It’s not just Irresponsible—It’s Illegal.
Register Your Drone—Yes, Even for Fun!
Drones Over 0.55 Pounds: If your drone weighs more than 0.55 pounds (that’s 250 grams), you need to register it with the FAA. Once registered, label your drone with the registration number. It’s a small step that can save you big headaches.
Local Laws Apply—Know Before You Go:
Obey Local Rules: The FAA isn’t the only authority you need to worry about. Check for any local or state regulations in your area before you fly. Ignorance won’t save you from fines or penalties.
Flying a drone for fun doesn’t require a formal license. But that doesn’t mean you can just take to the skies without a care. Passing the TRUST TEST, Registering your Drone, & Following the FAA’s Safety Guidelines are Non-Negotiable. Get these basics down. Then you’ll be free to enjoy the skies without fear of breaking the law.
Just because it’s Recreational...Doesn’t Mean it’s a Free-For-All.
Stay Informed, Fly Responsibly, & Keep the Fun Going!
Flying a drone is exciting, but it comes with responsibilities to ensure safety and compliance with the law. Here's what you need to know before taking to the skies as a recreational drone pilot:
1. Register Your Drone
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Registration: If your drone weighs between 0.55 pounds (250 grams) and 55 pounds (25 kilograms), you must register it with the FAA. The registration costs $5 and is valid for three years. You can register online at the FAA's DroneZone website.
Mark Your Drone: After registration, your drone must display the registration number on the exterior in a visible location.
2. Follow the Basic Safety Guidelines
Fly Below 400 Feet: To minimize the risk of collisions with manned aircraft, keep your drone below 400 feet (120 meters) above ground level.
Maintain Visual Line of Sight: Always keep your drone within your direct line of sight, meaning you should be able to see your drone at all times without the aid of binoculars or other vision-enhancing devices.
Yield Right of Way to Manned Aircraft: Manned aircraft, such as planes and helicopters, always have the right of way. If one is nearby, you must immediately land your drone or move it out of the way.
Fly During Daylight Hours: Recreational drone flying is only allowed during daylight hours, or in twilight (30 minutes before official sunrise to 30 minutes after official sunset) if your drone has anti-collision lights.
3. Respect Airspace Restrictions
No-Fly Zones: You must avoid restricted airspace, such as near airports, military bases, and other sensitive areas. Use the B4UFLY app or an equivalent tool to check for airspace restrictions before you fly.
Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs): Be aware of temporary restrictions, like those around major events or disaster areas. These are announced by the FAA and can be checked online.
4. Recreational Flying Rules
No Commercial Use: Recreational flying means you are flying for fun or as a hobby, not for work or commercial purposes. If you intend to use your drone for commercial purposes, you’ll need a Remote Pilot Certificate.
No Flying Over People: Avoid flying directly over people who are not involved in the operation of the drone.
Avoid Critical Infrastructure: Do not fly near critical infrastructure such as power stations, water treatment facilities, correctional facilities, or heavily traveled roads.
5. Join a Community-Based Organization (CBO)
Follow CBO Guidelines: Recreational drone pilots are encouraged to join a CBO and follow their safety guidelines, which are recognized by the FAA.
6. Take the FAA’s Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST)
Complete TRUST: All recreational drone pilots are required to pass the FAA’s TRUST test. This test is free and available online. Once completed, you must carry proof of test completion whenever flying your drone.
7. Be Respectful and Responsible
Privacy Considerations: Be mindful of people’s privacy. Avoid flying over private property without permission.
Avoid Wildlife Disturbance: Keep your drone away from wildlife to prevent disturbances.
By following these rules and guidelines, you can enjoy flying your drone safely and legally, while avoiding fines or other penalties. Happy flying!
