How to Get LAANC Authorization in NYC: Step by Step

Before You Start: What You Need

• FAA registration: Drone registered with the FAA, registration number marked on aircraft
• Remote ID: Active Remote ID broadcast capability (14 CFR Part 89)
• Part 107 certificate (commercial) or TRUST completion certificate (recreational under 49 U.S.C. Section 44809)
• FAA-approved UAS application: Verify it is currently on the FAA approved USS list

Step 1: Check the LAANC Ceiling

Open your FAA-approved UAS application and enter the planned flight location. The app displays the LAANC ceiling for that grid cell in feet AGL. If the ceiling is 0 ft, automated authorization is unavailable — you need FAA DroneZone (Step 5). If above 0 ft, proceed to Step 2.

Step 2: Submit Your LAANC Request

Submit an authorization request with: operator name, certificate number, UAS serial number, Remote ID info, flight location, requested altitude (at or below ceiling), and planned date and time window.

Step 3: Receive and Save Authorization

Approval typically arrives within seconds. Save the confirmation as screenshot, PDF, or in-app record. The authorization is specific to location, altitude, date, and time.

Step 4: Obtain All Other Required Permits

• NYPD drone permit: Apply at dronepermits.nypdonline.org (30-day lead time, USD 150, USD 2M/USD 4M insurance)
• Location-specific permits as applicable: NYC Parks, Port Authority, NPS
• Community Board notification as required under 38 RCNY Section 24-03

Step 5: When Ceiling Is 0 ft (DroneZone)

Apply at faadronezone-access.faa.gov with detailed flight plan, risk assessment, qualifications, and insurance. Processing takes 90+ days. Approval is not assured. Recreational operators cannot obtain DroneZone waivers for 0 ft areas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming LAANC is sufficient — it does not replace the NYPD permit
• Using a non-approved application — authorization is invalid
• Flying outside approved parameters (location, altitude, date, time)
• Ignoring TFRs — a TFR can override your LAANC authorization
• Not saving your authorization — you need to present it on request