Part 61 Pilot Certificate Application Option

In plain language

If you already hold a pilot certificate (like a private or commercial pilot certificate, but not a student pilot certificate) and have a current flight review, you can get your remote pilot certificate by completing an online training course instead of taking the FAA knowledge test.

Requirement as structured

An application for a remote pilot certificate with a small UAS rating must include either evidence that the applicant passed an initial aeronautical knowledge test or, for a person who holds a part 61 pilot certificate (other than a student pilot certificate) and meets the flight review requirements of § 61.56, a certificate of completion of an initial training course under part 107 covering the knowledge areas in § 107.74.

Original regulatory text

(a) The application must include either: (1) Evidence showing that the applicant passed an initial aeronautical knowledge test. If applying using a paper application, this evidence must be an airman knowledge test report showing passage of the knowledge test; or (2) If a person holds a pilot certificate (other than a student pilot certificate) issued under part 61 of this chapter and meets the flight review requirements specified in § 61.56, a certificate of completion of an initial training course under this part that covers the areas of knowledge specified in § 107.74.

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