Certification
From FTN to Remote Pilot Certificate
A clean sequence for first-time applicants, from IACRA to the permanent certificate.
Start with IACRA
Create an Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application profile and obtain your FAA Tracking Number before registering for the knowledge test. Keep the name on your profile consistent with your government-issued identification.
Test, then apply
Schedule the UAG test at an FAA-approved testing center. After passing, complete FAA Form 8710-13 in IACRA and enter the knowledge-test exam ID when it becomes available. FAA notes that the result can take time to appear.
Know the eligibility boundary
FAA eligibility includes being at least 16 years old, understanding English, and being in a physical and mental condition to operate safely. Existing Part 61 certificate holders with a current flight review follow a different initial-training route, so use the FAA path that matches your status.
Keep the certificate accessible
Once issued, the certificate must be readily accessible during operations. It is permanent unless revoked, but operational currency requires recurrent training within the previous 24 calendar months.
Official sources
- FAA: Become a Certificated Remote Pilot
- FAA Remote Pilot sUAS ACS
- FAA Airman Testing
- FAA testing supplements
Current regulations, FAA guidance, authorizations and testing-provider instructions control over this summary.