Do I Need to Get A Remote Pilot's License?
Small unmanned aerial vehicles (sUAV's) are currently being used in multiple industries to safely and efficiently inspect and photograph hard-to-reach assets. For example, companies in the energy industry use small UAVs to inspect wind turbines, mines and pipelines. In the commercial and residential real estate industry, real estate professionals use UAVs to give buyers a visual perspective that is not avialable from ground-level photos. Large and small farming operations use UAVs to help with water and disease management, while Insurance companies use UAVs to assess property damages and to settle claims more quickly.
However, to fly an unmanned aerial vehicle for commercial purposes, you'll need to get your FAA remote pilots certificate. The FAA is clear in stating that if you are using a UAV to further a business initiative, you'll need to have a remote pilot's license. Getting your remote pilots license takes a little studying but is easily within reach. You'll need to be at least 16 years of age, be able to read, speak, write and understand English, be in a physical and mental condition to safely operate a small drone, and pass the initial aeronautical knowledge exam at an FAA approved knowledge testing center.
To help you prepare for and pass your FAA knowledge exam, Terrestrial Imaging has created an online practice test engine. Using your smart phone, tablet or desktop computer, you can take as many practice tests as you need to help you prepare for the FAA's exam. When your ready for the real exam, make your appointment with your local FAA testing center and ACE the exam.
