Top FAQ’s on UAS/Drones (Part 1)

1.  Is a pilot’s license still required to fly a drone? 

A:  A license to fly a manned aircraft is not needed, as it was under the previous method to fly a UAV (section 333 exemption).  Currently, you need a UAS Remote Pilot Certificate.

2.  How do I obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate?

A: You need to pass the initial aeronautical knowledge test for small UAS, complete some forms, and pass a TSA background check.  The test itself is taken at a licensed FAA testing center.

3.  How hard is the test?

A: It has an approximate 90% pass rate, so it’s not too bad.  I will say I found it to be slightly more difficult than the Sport Pilot exam I took a bit before the UAS exam.  My score was 3-4 points lower, and there were a couple questions I was somewhat surprised to see on a UAS test (though not unreasonable).

4.  How much time is involved in this process?

A: I’ve heard of complete novices investing a solid work day to self-study and passing without an issue and I’ve also heard of many people taking a several day course.  It depends on how well you can study the material and your individual learning style.  There are also some online at-your-own-pace courses out there now that I’m hearing good things about.  I’ve got a couple coworkers that have volunteered as guinea pigs for the online study option, so hopefully I’ll have more info on that soon.  After studying, the test can take a maximum of two hours to take and you’ll wait a few days to a few weeks to pass the TSA security check.  You’ll get a paper certificate to use for until the card shows up in a few weeks- months.

5.  Where can I go for more info?

Check out the FAA’s guide on becoming a drone pilot for more info on the whole process.

Please email [email protected] if you have any more questions.