FAA UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) certification is required for individuals and organizations operating drones for commercial purposes in the United States. This certification ensures that operators understand aviation regulations and safety procedures to operate drones safely within the National Airspace System (NAS).
To obtain FAA UAS certification, individuals must pass the FAA Part 107 exam, which covers topics such as airspace regulations, weather effects on drones, and flight operations. Additionally, applicants need to be at least 16 years old, speak and understand English, and be in a physical and mental condition to safely operate a drone.
Having FAA UAS certification opens up various opportunities for commercial drone pilots, allowing them to legally conduct drone operations for purposes like aerial photography, surveying, mapping, and inspections. Certified operators can also establish credibility and trust with clients due to their compliance with aviation regulations.
FAA UAS certification is valid for two years, after which operators need to renew their certification by passing the recurrent knowledge exam. This ensures that operators stay up-to-date with any changes in regulations and maintain their knowledge and skills for safe drone operations.