Know Before You Fly

Know Before You Fly

1. Review UCCS Drone Policy

   If you are flying your drone for purposes of UCCS, including education, research and public service, review UCCS Policy 100-018 - Operations of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS).

2. Federal Restrictions on Drones

   Ensure the drone used does not have a federal restriction for use. Visit our UCCS Federal Use Restrictions page for more information.

3. FAA Registration

   All drones need to be registered with the FAA. Very small drones weighing less than 250 grams are exempt from the registration requirement.

   The registration number must be visible on the outside of the drone. See How to Label Your Drone.

4. Recreational Pilot TRUST Exam

   All recreational pilots must take the “FAA TRUST Exam.” The exam is free.

5. Commercial Pilot Part 107 Certification

   If you plan to use your drone for any commercial purposes, you’ll need to become certified by the FAA as a Part 107 drone pilot. Part 107 is the Federal Regulation pertaining to commercial operations of drones weighing less than 55 pounds. Information on Part 107 can be found on the FAA's Become a Drone Pilot webpage.

6. Remote ID Compliance

   Unless you are flying at an established model aircraft club, your drone must transmit a Remote ID signal. Most drones produced in 2023 or later have Remote ID technology built in. Information on Remote ID can be found at the FAA's Getting Started Remote ID webpage.

7. Check Airspace Restrictions

   To ensure you only fly in safe and legal areas, you should download and use the FAA’s B4UFly app. This app will warn you of any restrictions to drone flights that may be in effect when and where you plan to fly.