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How to Get an FAA Tracking Number

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How to Get an FAA Tracking Number

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FAA Tracking Number

How to Get an FAA Tracking Number (FTN)

Before you can schedule your FAA Part 107 knowledge test—the essential step toward becoming a certified commercial drone pilot—you’ll need to obtain an FAA Tracking Number (FTN). This unique number links your identity to all FAA-related activities, such as testing, certification, and licensing. Whether you’re brand new to aviation or already hold a different FAA certification, the FTN is your official identifier within the FAA system.

What is an FTN?

The FAA Tracking Number (FTN) is a permanent, unique number assigned to every individual who interacts with the FAA’s certification systems. Introduced to streamline identity verification and record-keeping, the FTN ensures that all your testing history, applications, and certifications are tied to a single, secure profile.

For drone operators, obtaining an FTN is required before registering for the Part 107 knowledge exam through the FAA’s designated testing provider (currently PSI).

Why You Need an FTN for Part 107

As of January 2020, all applicants—whether applying for a manned or unmanned pilot certificate—must have an FTN. When scheduling your Part 107 exam through PSI (the FAA’s test administrator), you’ll be asked to provide your FTN. Without it, you won’t be able to proceed with your exam registration.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your FTN

Follow these steps to get your FTN:

Step 1: Create an IACRA Account

To get an FTN, you must first register on the FAA’s Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) website.Visit: https://iacra.faa.gov• Click on “Register” in the upper-right corner of the homepage.• Choose “Applicant” as your role.• Agree to the terms of service and continue.

Step 2: Fill Out Your Personal Information

You’ll be prompted to enter key personal details:• Full legal name (as it appears on your government-issued ID)• Date of birth• Email address• Security questions and answers• Citizenship information• Username and password for loginYou do not need to fill in an existing certificate number—just leave that blank if you’ve never held an FAA certification before.

Step 3: Complete Registration and Receive FTN

Once you’ve filled in all required fields, submit the form. After successful registration, the system will assign you an FAA Tracking Number (FTN). You’ll see it on your IACRA dashboard after logging in.It’s a good idea to write this number down or save it securely, as you’ll need it every time you interact with the FAA or schedule future exams.

Step 4: Use Your FTN to Register for the Exam

Now that you have your FTN, head over to the PSI exam registration portal (https://faa.psiexams.com) to schedule your Part 107 test. During registration, you’ll enter your FTN to match your profile with the FAA’s system. Once linked, you can view available testing centers and book your exam.

Conclusion

Getting your FAA Tracking Number is quick, free, and absolutely essential. It’s the first step in your journey toward becoming a certified drone pilot. Whether you’re planning to inspect real estate, film aerial videos, or map agricultural land, it all starts with the FTN. Once you have it, you’re officially ready to prepare for and schedule your Part 107 exam.

TSA Background Check Process for Part 107 Certification

Once you’ve successfully passed the FAA Part 107 Aeronautical Knowledge Test, your next critical step toward becoming a certified commercial drone pilot is completing a TSA (Transportation Security Administration) background check. This is a required process before the FAA can issue your official Remote Pilot Certificate.