Remote Pilot Certificate: Requirements, Training and How to Get One
Operating a drone for commercial purposes requires official certification, but the path to a remote pilot certificate varies significantly between the US and the UK. This guide clarifies the essential steps for navigating the requirements of both the FAA's Part 107 and the CAA's RPC-L1.
What Is a Remote Pilot Certificate?
A Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) is the required credential for operating an unmanned aircraft system (UAS), or drone, safely and legally for commercial purposes. In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issues this certificate under its Small UAS Rule (14 CFR Part 107), confirming the pilot understands the regulations, operating requirements, and procedures for safe drone flights.
This certificate establishes a baseline of competence and ensures you understand the national airspace system, but it may not cover every operational scenario or UAS type you might encounter in your career.
What Are the Remote Pilot Certificate Requirements in the US?
To become a certified remote pilot in the United States, you must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the FAA under 14 CFR Part 107.
| Requirement | US (Part 107) |
|---|---|
| Minimum age | 16 years |
| Language proficiency | Read, speak, write, understand English |
| Physical/mental fitness | Required |
| Theory exam | UAG knowledge test (20-40 hrs prep) |
| Practical assessment | Not required for certificate |
| Prerequisites | None |
| Validity period | Permanent (recurrent test every 24 months) |
US eligibility and exam basics
To be eligible for a Part 107 remote pilot certificate in the US, an applicant must meet the following criteria (14 CFR Part 107):
- Be at least 16 years old.
- Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English.
- Be physically and mentally fit to safely operate a drone.
The key step is passing the initial aeronautical knowledge exam-the “Unmanned Aircraft General - Small (UAG)” test. This exam covers a wide range of topics, from air law and meteorology to operational procedures, to ensure a thorough grasp of the national airspace system. Most candidates dedicate 20-40 hours to exam preparation, with study materials covering airspace rules, weather interpretation, and emergency procedures.
How Do You Get a Remote Pilot Certificate in the US?
The FAA has a multi-step process for obtaining a remote pilot certificate in the United States. Aspiring pilots must demonstrate their knowledge, verify their identity, and pass a security background check to ensure they meet all federal regulations for commercial drone operation.
The process to become a certified Part 107 remote pilot involves these steps (14 CFR Part 107):
- Obtain an FTN: Get an FAA Tracking Number (FTN) through the Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) system.
- Pass the Knowledge Test: Schedule and pass the UAG knowledge test at an FAA-approved testing center.
- Complete Form 8710-13: After passing the test, complete and submit FAA Form 8710-13 via your IACRA account.
- Pass a Background Check: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will conduct a security background check.
- Receive Certificate: Once you pass the background check, the FAA will issue a permanent certificate by mail.
Preparing for the UAG knowledge test
Thorough UAG knowledge test preparation is essential. Plan on dedicating at least two to three weeks to mastering the material. Most candidates complete the exam within 60 days of beginning study, though Part 141 structured programs can accelerate this timeline. Key subjects on the exam include:
- Air Law
- Human Performance
- Meteorology
- Navigation
- Communications
- Aircraft General Knowledge
- Flight Performance and Planning
- Operational Procedures
Understanding these areas ensures you can make informed decisions while flying and integrate safely into the national airspace.
IACRA submission and identity validation
After passing your knowledge test, you will submit your IACRA application remote pilot by completing FAA Form 8710-13. Once submitted, you must validate your identity with an authorized representative, such as:
- An FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO)
- An FAA-designated pilot examiner (DPE)
- An airman certification representative (ACR)
- A certified flight instructor (CFI)
After your identity is confirmed, you will receive a temporary certificate, allowing you to operate legally while you wait for your permanent card to arrive in the mail.
What Remote Pilot Certificate Training Providers Are Available?
Many remote pilot training providers offer courses designed to build the knowledge and skills needed to pass your exams and operate safely. These organizations range from online platforms to flight schools with in-person instruction, and many offer specialized courses for advanced ratings or to help licensed pilots stay current.
Online theory courses and self-study
Many training providers offer flexible learning formats, including self-paced online courses, traditional classroom training, or a hybrid model. Structured Part 141 programs typically compress training into 2-3 weeks, while self-paced Part 61-style learning averages 4-8 weeks. Companies like ATP Flight School and other FAA-approved providers offer flexible online learning and real-world assessments, making remote pilot training more accessible.
In-person practical training locations
While the theoretical portion of your training can often be completed online, hands-on flight experience and practical assessments are valuable for developing real-world skills. Many remote pilot training providers operate at approved sites across the country, offering in-person instruction and evaluation.
What Do Practical Assessments and Flight Tests Evaluate?
Practical assessments and flight tests are designed to prove your real-world piloting skills. These evaluations confirm your ability to handle an aircraft safely and effectively in both normal and emergency situations.
What examiners look for in practical tests
During a practical flight test, examiners look for more than just basic drone control; they evaluate your overall proficiency, decision-making skills, and situational awareness. A successful practical assessment confirms you have the skills of a responsible remote pilot. FAA-designated pilot examiners use standardized rubrics aligned with regulatory standards to ensure consistent evaluation across all candidates.
How Do You Renew a Remote Pilot Certificate and Maintain Validity?
Your responsibilities don’t end once you earn your remote pilot certificate; you must also understand its validity period and renewal requirements. The FAA has specific rules to ensure pilots remain current with regulations and safety procedures. Neglecting this recurrent training will prevent you from legally conducting commercial drone operations, making remote pilot certificate renewal a critical responsibility.
| Renewal Requirement | US (FAA Part 107) |
|---|---|
| Validity period | Permanent certificate |
| Recurrent training | Online knowledge test every 24 months |
| Recurrent course options | ALC-677 (all pilots) or ALC-515 (Part 61 with current flight review) |
| Time to complete recurrent | 1-2 hours |
| Cost | Free (FAA-provided courses) |
US recurrent training and currency
To keep your FAA remote pilot certificate current, you must complete a recurrent online knowledge test every 24 months (14 CFR Part 107). The FAA provides free online courses for this purpose: most pilots take the Part 107 Small UAS Recurrent (ALC-677) course, while certified Part 61 pilots with a current flight review can take the Part 107 Small UAS Recurrent (ALC-515) course instead. Completing one of these courses satisfies the remote pilot certificate renewal requirement. The recurrent test typically takes 1-2 hours and covers regulatory updates and safety procedures.
What Legal Risks and Safety Considerations Apply to Remote Pilots?
Holding a remote pilot certificate involves significant responsibilities, from complying with regulations and managing airspace to ensuring flight safety. A pilot’s daily routine involves clarifying their intended operational airspace and coordinating with relevant authorities.
Insurance and operational compliance
To operate a drone commercially in the United States, several legal requirements must be met beyond holding a certificate:
- Airspace Authorization: You must obtain airspace authorization from the FAA when operating in controlled airspace or near airports.
- Operator Registration: You must register your drone with the FAA, and your registration number must be displayed on every drone you fly.
- Insurance: You should maintain insurance to protect yourself and the public, though specific requirements vary by operation and client.
Enforcement, noncompliance and common pitfalls
Failure to comply with aviation regulations can lead to serious consequences, including fines and certificate suspension. A common pitfall is inadequate documentation, so you must maintain proper records, including:
- Course completion certificate
- Knowledge test results
- Logbook pages
- Proof of ID
During professional practice, you will be evaluated on operational planning, risk assessments, emergency procedure management, and sound decision-making. Maintaining detailed records and a well-organized operations log is your best tool for avoiding noncompliance and ensuring safe, legal flights.
Sources & references
All references are official US government and institutional sources. Always verify current regulations and figures with the original source before making training or career decisions.
- 14 CFR Part 107 - Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems - Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Regulatory framework for Remote Pilot Certificate requirements and Part 107 operations
- FAA Part 107 Commercial Drone Operators - Federal Aviation Administration. Official FAA guidance on Remote Pilot Certificate eligibility, exam requirements, and certification process
- FAA Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) - Federal Aviation Administration. Comprehensive FAA resource on UAS regulations, safety procedures, and airspace integration for commercial drone operations
- FAA Airman Knowledge Testing - Federal Aviation Administration. Information on the Unmanned Aircraft General (UAG) knowledge exam required for Remote Pilot Certificate
- FAA UAS Getting Started - Federal Aviation Administration. Step-by-step guidance on obtaining Remote Pilot Certificate and understanding Part 107 requirements
Frequently asked questions
What is a remote pilot certificate and do I need one?
A Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) is the FAA credential required to operate drones commercially in the United States under Part 107 regulations. If you're flying a drone for any business purpose, you must have this certificate to operate legally.
#How old do you have to be to get a remote pilot certificate?
You must be at least 16 years old to be eligible for a Part 107 remote pilot certificate from the FAA. You also need to be able to read, speak, write, and understand English, and be physically and mentally fit to safely operate a drone.
#What exam do I need to pass to get a remote pilot certificate?
You must pass the FAA's Unmanned Aircraft General - Small (UAG) exam, which covers air law, meteorology, airspace regulations, and operational procedures. This initial aeronautical knowledge exam ensures you understand the national airspace system and safe drone operations.
#What are the requirements to become a remote pilot?
To qualify for a Part 107 remote pilot certificate, you must be at least 16 years old, fluent in English, physically and mentally fit, pass the UAG knowledge exam, complete a security background check, and verify your identity with the FAA.
#Can I fly drones commercially without a remote pilot certificate?
No, the FAA requires all commercial drone operators in the United States to hold a valid Part 107 remote pilot certificate. Flying commercially without one violates federal regulations and can result in significant fines and penalties.
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