Non-Recognition of Foreign Remote Pilot Certificates

In plain language

You cannot fly a drone in the US using a license from another country. You must pass an FAA knowledge test at a US-based testing center to get a US Remote Pilot Certificate.

Requirement as structured

The FAA does not recognize foreign remote pilot certificates or equivalents, requiring foreign pilots to obtain a U.S. Remote Pilot Certificate to act as pilot in command.

Original regulatory text

The FAA does not currently recognize any foreign RPC or equivalent. As a first-time remote pilot, you will be required to visit a Knowledge Testing Center and pass an initial aeronautical knowledge test. All Testing Centers are located in the U.S.

Applies when

country

United States

operation

Part 107 small UAS operation

operation regime

part_107

aircraft category

small unmanned aircraft (under 55 lb)

regulatory category

General