Drone pilots looking to fly drones commercially or for certain purposes may need certification. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States requires commercial drone operators to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate by passing the FAA's Part 107 exam. This certification is essential for operating drones for business purposes.
To obtain Part 107 certification, you must be at least 16 years old, be able to read, speak, write, and understand English, and pass the FAA Knowledge Test. The test covers regulations, airspace, weather, and drone operations. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your Remote Pilot Certificate.
If you fly drones recreationally, certification may not be required, but you still need to follow FAA guidelines for hobbyists. These guidelines include flying for fun, registering your drone if it weighs over 0.55 pounds, and avoiding restricted airspace.
Obtaining certification not only ensures that you are legally compliant but also demonstrates your competence and commitment to safe drone operations. It can open up opportunities for commercial drone jobs and projects that require certified pilots.
Part 107 certification is valid for two years, after which you need to pass a recurrent knowledge test to renew your certificate. Recurrent testing ensures that drone pilots stay updated on regulations and best practices.