California has specific regulations regarding drone operation that pilots must adhere to. To legally fly a drone for commercial purposes in California, you need to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
To qualify for a Remote Pilot Certificate, you must be at least 16 years old, speak and understand English, and pass the FAA's Aeronautical Knowledge Test. The test covers various topics related to drone operation, airspace regulations, weather conditions, and more.
To obtain your drone pilot license in California, follow these steps: Study for the Aeronautical Knowledge Test, schedule and pass the test, complete the FAA Form 8710-13 for a Remote Pilot Certificate, undergo a background check through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and receive your certificate upon successful completion.
Drone pilot licenses need to be renewed every two years. Additionally, participation in recurrent training is required to stay up-to-date with changing regulations and technology.