In the context of aviation, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is often referred to as a drone. In other words, it’s an aeroplane without a pilot, crew, or passengers. Drones must be able to communicate with a controller on the ground in order to function. A pilot needs to operate the drone from the ground. These pilots are known as remote or drone pilots. In order for a drone to successfully take off, remain on course, and land safely, a pilot must be on board.
Drone pilots are in high demand since the industry is still in its infancy. Drones are used by businesses for a variety of tasks, including filming and surveying large areas. A drone pilot certification implies that you may work for a company or organization as a drone pilot and fly professionally. You will learn about drone pilot certification in this post, as well as how to become a certified drone pilot.
Involvement in the process
Drone pilots have two primary responsibilities: keeping drones on course and performing per-flight safety checks. Other duties include, but are not limited to:
- Planning the directions of the drone
- Use the drone’s cameras and other tools
- Making sure your drones are safe to operate and land on
- Perform safety tests and evaluate the capabilities of drones
- Assemble data or create aerial images
- Drones should be steered in a certain direction at all times
What are the requirements for becoming a certified drone pilot?
To fly a drone commercially, one must be certified as a drone pilot by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). A written test is part of the certification process, and pilots must complete training and courses in order to be eligible for certification. You must know how to become an FAA-certified drone pilot. The pilot certification is required if you want to use a drone for commercial purposes.
There is a TRUST test for recreational pilots, but they don’t have to pass the same exam as commercial pilots. Unlike the pilot certification, this test is free and takes less than 30 minutes to complete.
Do I Need Drone Pilot Certification?
A Remote Pilot Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is required for any non-recreational use of a drone (FAA).
Purchase, lease, or rent a drone
As a drone pilot, you must own a drone in order to practice commercially. Many companies will be able to give you a drone if you join their ranks. However, the majority of drone pilots own their own to practice their abilities and learn new techniques.
Renting or subscribing to a drone may be an option if you don’t have your own.
You’ll also be able to get your hands on all the crucial camera gear any aspiring photographer or videographer would want.
Prepare yourself for the test.
The “Unmanned Aircraft General – Small” test is an essential step in obtaining a drone pilot certification. If you are wondering “how do I become a certified drone pilot”, a smart place to start is by studying for the test. You can find materials to help you get ready online. In addition, several websites include study materials, such as quizzes and practice examinations, to aid in exam preparation. Prospective drone pilots may also take the FAA’s own course.
Set up a user profile
First, you’ll need an FAA Tracking Number if you plan on taking the test. An Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application profile are needed to receive the number. Before registering for the test, be sure to establish a profile. You may go to the following step after you have the number.
Plan your exam
Visit a knowledge assessment site certified by the FAA for online use. The examinations are administered by the FAA in conjunction with these facilities, notwithstanding their independence. About $160 is the average cost of the tests. A government-issued picture ID, such as a driver’s licence, is required to take the exam by the FAA. You may arrange your exams on these websites. If you have any questions or run into any problems with the registration process, you may also find contact information and resources there. Training classes are often available from many of the testing websites.
Complete the FAA written test.
A local FAA testing centre is where you should register to take the knowledge exam once you’ve prepared. There is a time limit of two hours for you to finish the exam. There are 60 questions in all, and they span a wide range of themes, such as
- Drone regulations and legislation
- Constraints on taking off or landing
- Weather forecasts for aircraft
- operations at the airport
- Repair and upkeep procedures
Send your test results in.
Even if you pass the exam, you’ll still need to apply for a driver’s licence. Results must be sent to the FAA, which keeps track of them. FAA Form 8710-13 is the proper form to use when submitting them. In most cases, your licence will be sent to you within a few weeks. Once you have obtained a commercial pilot’s licence, you may begin flying commercial drones.
Register your unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) (if needed)
As soon as you’ve dealt with everything else and learned how to become a certified drone pilot, you may start flying. A drone that has been certified by the FAA office has to be registered. For three years, you may apply for this online.
Learn how to fly like a bird
You may begin working as a commercial drone pilot as soon as you receive your qualification. Being a certified drone pilot is fantastic, but having the ability to fly a drone is awe-inspiring.
Summing Up
Many businesses seek drone pilots that have previous flying experience. Once you’ve earned that coveted gold certificate, consider spending some time honing your flying talents so that you may get even more acting gigs.
