Law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency response teams need clearance to operate beyond standard drone rules. That’s where the Certificate of Authorization from the FAA comes in.
But getting one takes time, effort, and patience. The FAA doesn’t hand them out like candy. Agencies must submit detailed applications, outline operational procedures, and, in some cases, prove why their operations qualify as public aircraft operations (PAO) under federal law. The approval process can take even more than 2 months.
So, where do you start? This guide walks you through every step:
- Understanding COAs and the types available for public safety agencies
- Navigating FAA’s online application system
- Practical instructions and tips to move your application forward.
What is a Certificate of Authorization (COA)?
A Certificate of Authorization is an official FAA approval that allows government agencies to operate drones in ways that would normally be restricted. This includes flying beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), operating over people, or responding to emergencies without waiting for case-by-case FAA clearance.
Most commercial drone pilots work under Part 107 regulations, which come with strict limits. Part 107 operators must request waivers to fly at night, over people, or in restricted airspace. That process can take weeks or even months.
A COA, on the other hand, gives public agencies more operational flexibility. Agencies can self-certify their pilots, operate in controlled airspace, and respond faster to emergencies. While getting a COA is a longer and more complex process than applying for a Part 107 license, it pays off when seconds matter.
For example, a fire department using drones to track wildfires doesn’t have time to request airspace authorization before launching. With a COA, they can fly immediately, even in controlled airspace.
Who Can Apply for a COA?
Not everyone qualifies. Only government agencies and public entities can apply. This includes:
- Law enforcement (police, sheriff’s departments, state patrol).
- Fire departments (wildfire monitoring, hazardous material response).
- Emergency response teams (search and rescue, disaster relief).
- Public schools (STEM programs, security monitoring).
Private companies cannot apply, even if they provide emergency services. Also, drone operations must fit the FAA’s Public Aircraft Operations (PAO) guidelines. Filming for public relations? Not allowed. Surveying government construction sites? Doesn’t qualify.
A COA is not a free pass to fly drones anywhere. But for public agencies that meet the criteria, it’s an essential tool for doing the job faster, safer, and more effectively.
Types of COAs Available
Not all COAs are the same. The FAA offers different types, each with its own limitations and privileges. Choosing the right one depends on where you plan to fly, how fast you need approval, and what kind of missions you run.
Blanket Class G COA
If you’re flying in uncontrolled airspace (Class G), this is your go-to.
It allows public agencies to fly up to 400 feet AGL without needing separate approvals for each mission. That means you can send drones out faster and with less red tape—perfect for routine public safety operations like patrols, missing person searches, and environmental monitoring.
Night flights are included.
You can’t use this COA in controlled airspace. If your agency operates near an airport or in restricted zones, you’ll need more than a Blanket COA.
Jurisdictional COA
Need to fly in Class B, C, D, or E airspace? This is the one.
A Jurisdictional COA allows agencies to operate in controlled airspace without requesting clearance for every mission. This is crucial for law enforcement, emergency responders, and infrastructure inspections in busy urban areas.
It does require extra paperwork. You must submit a Jurisdictional Operations Area Plan that outlines your agency’s authority and provides a detailed map of your coverage area.
Emergency or Special Government Interest (SGI) COA
When disaster strikes, waiting weeks for FAA approval isn’t an option.
An SGI COA lets agencies launch drones immediately in emergency situations. It’s designed for wildfires, hurricanes, search and rescue, and law enforcement emergencies.
Requests for SGI COAs are processed in as little as one hour. But only agencies with an existing COA or Part 107 certification can apply.
So, if you’re serious about using drones in critical situations, getting a standard COA first is a must.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a COA
1. Submit a Public Declaration Letter (PDL)
Before you can even touch the COA application, the FAA needs to verify that your agency qualifies. They don’t just take your word for it. You need to prove it—and that’s where the Public Declaration Letter (PDL) comes in.
The PDL is a formal statement that confirms your agency is a legitimate government entity. Without it, you won’t even get access to the FAA’s COA application portal.
So, what does the FAA want to see in this letter?
- Your agency’s full legal name. No abbreviations, no nicknames.
- Your jurisdiction. The FAA needs to know exactly who you serve and where.
- The nature of your work. Spell it out. Are you a police department handling drone-assisted surveillance? A fire department using drones for wildfire response? Lay out your mission in detail.
- Legal authority. Cite specific state or local laws that confirm your agency is recognized as a public entity.
- Signature of an attorney. This isn’t optional. The letter must be signed by your agency’s legal counsel or an authorized government official.
Once your PDL is ready, email it to 9-AJV-115-UASOrganization@faa.gov. If it meets FAA standards, they’ll send you a CAPS Access Request Form, which is the next step in getting your COA.
If the PDL is missing key details, expect delays. The FAA will reject it, and you’ll have to rewrite and resubmit. Get it right the first time.
2. Gain Access to the COA Online Application System (CAPS)
The COA Application Processing System (CAPS) is where everything happens. This web-based portal is the only place you can apply for, renew, and manage COAs.
But you can’t just create an account and log in. The FAA needs to approve your access first.
Once your PDL is approved, you’ll receive an email with a CAPS Access Request Form. This form asks for:
- Your agency’s legal name and contact information.
- The authorized official who will manage COA applications.
- A justification for access.
- Your FAA Tracking Number (FTN), if applicable.
Fill it out carefully and send it back to the FAA. If they approve your request, you’ll get login credentials for CAPS. Now, you can finally start the COA application process.
3. Submit the Public COA Application
This is done after getting CAPS access. T It requires a level of detail that catches a lot of first-time applicants off guard.
The application has multiple sections, each covering a different aspect of your drone operations. Here’s what you’ll need to provide:
Proponent Information
Start by listing your agency name, jurisdiction, and point of contact for FAA communication. The FAA needs a single person they can reach out to if they have questions.
Declarations
You’ll answer a series of yes/no questions confirming that your agency meets FAA requirements. One of these requires you to upload your approved Public Declaration Letter from Step 1.
Point of Contact Information
This section asks for detailed contact information for the person overseeing COA operations. Make sure it’s someone who actually understands drone regulations.
Operational Description
This is one of the most critical sections. You’ll need to explain your proposed drone operations in depth, including:
- Objectives. What are you trying to achieve with drone use?
- Location details. Where will these flights take place? Are there airports nearby?
- Altitude restrictions. How high will your drones fly?
UAS Platform
This is where you provide full specifications for each drone in your fleet. Expect to list:
- Make and model.
- Weight and dimensions.
- Avionics and flight control systems.
- Emergency procedures (lost link, lost comms).
You’ll also need to submit a formal letter stating that your drones have been inspected and found to be airworthy. The FAA doesn’t want untested drones flying over public spaces.
Flight Crew Qualifications
Agencies have two options when certifying their drone pilots:
- Self-certification. This means your agency develops and conducts its own training programs. But the FAA requires that this training matches or exceeds Part 107 standards.
- Part 107 Certification. Many agencies choose to have all pilots certified under Part 107 instead of creating their own internal certification process.
If you go the self-certification route, expect extra FAA scrutiny.
Flight Operations Area
Where are you flying?
The FAA wants exact coordinates of your operational area, including:
- Proposed flight boundaries.
- Maximum altitude.
- Distance from populated areas and airports.
For Jurisdictional COA applications, you must submit a detailed map with clearly marked boundaries.
Emergency Procedures
You need solid contingency plans in case something goes wrong.
This includes:
- Lost link protocols.
- Lost communication procedures.
- Procedures for handling unexpected aircraft encounters.
4. Review and Submit the Application
Once every section is filled out, review everything carefully. Any missing details could lead to rejection.
After submission, the FAA will review your application, which takes around 60 days. If they need more information, they’ll reach out with clarifications or document requests.
You’re not done yet. Some applications require follow-up interviews or additional documents. If that happens, respond quickly—delays on your end mean a longer wait for approval.
Once approved, you’ll receive your official COA and can begin operations. But the process doesn’t end there. COAs require ongoing compliance and reporting—more on that in the next section.
Ongoing Compliance and Reporting Requirements
Monthly Reporting Obligations
Getting a COA is just the beginning. Once you have it, the FAA expects constant updates on your drone operations. Every month, your agency must log and submit flight data through the COA Application Processing System (CAPS).
What needs to be reported?
- Total flight hours. Every minute counts. The FAA wants a full log of operations.
- Mission details. Where you flew, what you did, and why it mattered.
- Incidents. If anything went wrong—lost communication, emergency landings, deviations from flight plans—it must be documented.
Skipping a report isn’t an option. Even if you didn’t fly that month, you still have to submit a report stating there was no activity.
And here’s the frustrating part. CAPS doesn’t allow you to save reports as drafts. If the system crashes mid-entry, you start over. That’s why many agencies keep offline logs and copy everything over in one go.
Maintaining and Renewing a COA
COAs don’t last forever. Most expire after two years. If your agency wants to keep flying, you’ll need to apply for renewal before it lapses.
Renewals aren’t automatic. The FAA will review your flight history, compliance record, and any changes to operations. If your reports are incomplete, expect delays or even rejection.
Need to add new drones or adjust your operational scope? That requires an amendment. Any major changes—like flying in a different airspace or using new equipment—must be submitted through CAPS for FAA approval before implementation.
Skipping compliance isn’t worth the risk. The FAA can suspend or revoke your COA if they find gaps in reporting. Stay on top of it, and your agency will keep flying without issues.
Special Considerations: Tactical BVLOS Waivers
What is a Tactical BVLOS Waiver?
Flying Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) is usually not allowed. The FAA bans it for good reason—losing sight of a drone increases risk. Collisions, loss of control, and miscalculations can happen fast.
But emergencies don’t wait. When seconds matter, public safety agencies can request a Tactical BVLOS (TBVLOS) waiver to fly drones beyond the pilot’s direct line of sight.
This waiver is designed for high-stakes missions—search and rescue, hostage situations, disaster response, and active shooter incidents. Instead of wasting time repositioning ground teams, drones can fly over obstacles, relay real-time data, and provide a safer view of the scene.
TBVLOS waivers are not blanket approvals. Each agency must justify why BVLOS is necessary, how it will be used, and how risks will be handled.
How to Apply for a TBVLOS Waiver
You’ll need to submit a detailed request through the CAPS system and follow up with an email submission.
Here’s what the FAA wants to see:
1. Agency Background
Start with who you are and what you do. Explain your agency’s role in public safety and why drones are critical to your mission. If you’ve been using drones under a COA, include examples of past successful operations.
2. Concept of Operations (CONOPS)
This is where you make your case.
- Why is BVLOS necessary for your agency?
- What type of missions require it?
- How will it improve safety and efficiency?
Be specific. If you need BVLOS for search and rescue, describe real scenarios where flying beyond line of sight made a difference.
Learn more: CONOPs for Part 107 Waiver Applications — Guide For Drone Pilots
3. Airspace Description
The FAA doesn’t approve BVLOS flights just anywhere. You must describe the airspace where operations will take place.
- Will the flights happen in rural areas, cities, or restricted zones?
- Are there nearby airports or controlled airspace?
- Will ATC coordination be required?
Mapping out specific locations increases your chances of approval.
4. Mitigation Measures
BVLOS operations come with serious risks. The FAA expects a strong safety plan.
- How will pilots track and control drones beyond line of sight?
- What kind of communication and detection systems will be used?
- What happens if a drone loses connection or a manned aircraft enters the area?
The more precautions you outline, the smoother your approval process will be.
FAA Review Process
Once you submit your TBVLOS waiver request, expect back-and-forth communication. The FAA might ask for clarifications, request additional documents, or require a virtual presentation.
During this review phase, be prepared to explain your request in detail. The FAA wants confidence that your agency can handle BVLOS flights without endangering other airspace users.
If approved, you’ll receive official authorization with strict conditions. Stick to them. Non-compliance can result in suspensions, fines, or losing your COA altogether.
TBVLOS is a huge advantage for public safety operations. But getting it approved takes work.
Related reading: FAA Grounds Sky Elements After Orlando Drone Show Accident: What This Means for You
Common Challenges and Tips for a Successful COA Application
Challenges Agencies Face
Getting a Certificate of Authorization isn’t a quick or easy process. The FAA scrutinizes every detail. Miss one requirement, and you’re looking at delays, rejections, or endless back-and-forth emails.
One of the biggest hurdles? The waiting.
The FAA officially says reviews take 60 days, but realistically, it can be longer. If your application is incomplete, expect even more delays.
Eligibility is another major obstacle. Not all public agencies qualify. Even if your agency does, your specific drone operations might not meet Public Aircraft Operations (PAO) criteria. If your mission doesn’t fit, your application won’t move forward.
Then there’s the paperwork. The COA application is highly technical, requiring airspace descriptions, operational plans, emergency procedures, and detailed drone specs. Agencies without aviation experience often struggle to complete these forms correctly.
If you plan to fly in controlled airspace, be prepared for additional hurdles. The FAA needs proof that your agency can operate safely near airports and restricted zones. If your risk mitigation plan is weak, your application won’t pass.
Best Practices for a Smooth Application
Get your pilots Part 107 certified. Even if your agency applies for a COA, having Part 107 pilots reduces FAA concerns about training standards. You can pass the exam with a Part 107 Preparatory Online Course.
Work with legal advisors early. The Public Declaration Letter (PDL) must be airtight. A weak legal foundation can sink your application before it starts.
Don’t skimp on safety details. The FAA cares most about risk mitigation. Outline exactly how you’ll prevent mid-air conflicts, avoid restricted areas, and handle drone malfunctions.
Follow FAA templates. The agency provides specific formatting and guidelines. Stick to them, and your application stands a better chance of moving quickly.
Getting a COA is hard. Avoiding common mistakes makes it easier.
Apply For A Certificate of Authorization Today
Getting a COA is the difference between getting airborne immediately or waiting weeks for clearance. For public safety agencies, that delay could mean lives lost, crimes unchecked, or disasters unmanaged.
The application process is long, detailed, and full of bureaucratic hurdles. The FAA doesn’t make it easy, but for good reason. When drones share airspace with manned aircraft, there’s zero room for error.
If your agency needs a COA, don’t wait until you actually need it. The FAA review process takes at least 60 days, and that’s assuming everything is perfect. If they ask for clarifications or additional documents, expect even more delays.
Start now. Gather your legal documents, map out your flight areas, and establish a strong risk mitigation plan. Agencies that plan ahead get approvals faster and with fewer issues.
For additional guidance, check the FAA’s COA resources, and public safety UAV organizations. You can also download this Sample Application.
Ready to apply?
Log into the FAA’s COA Application Processing System (CAPS) and start your submission today. The sooner you begin, the sooner your agency can fly without restrictions.