A real estate photographer, a roof inspector, and a farmer surveying crops all have something in common if they fly a drone for work: in the US they need a Remote Pilot Certificate under 14 CFR Part 107. For most of them, that means passing an FAA knowledge test on topics a hobbyist rarely thinks about, from airspace classes to reading a sectional chart and a weather report.
The Remote Pilot Airman Certification Standards define what that test covers. Unlike crewed pilot certificates, the remote pilot certificate has no flight test, so the knowledge areas laid out in the ACS are the standard you’re measured against.
Quick answer: The Remote Pilot Airman Certification Standards (ASA-ACS-10B) is ASA’s printing of the FAA standard that defines the knowledge areas for the Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. It’s for commercial drone operators preparing for the knowledge test and instructors teaching Part 107, available on Skyfarer and at Skyfarer Shop.
At a glance
- Subject. Airman Certification Standards for the Remote Pilot Certificate.
- Rule. 14 CFR Part 107, small unmanned aircraft systems.
- Printed by. Aviation Supplies & Academics (ASA).
- Part number. ASA-ACS-10B.
Using the ACS to study
- Use it as your checklist. Work through each knowledge area and tick off what you understand.
- Fill gaps with study material. Use a test prep book or course for topics you can’t explain yet.
- Practice chart reading. Airspace and sectional chart questions trip up many first-time test takers.
- Stay current afterward. Remote pilots complete recurrent training every 24 calendar months to keep exercising their privileges.
Pilot tip: Get a paper sectional chart for your local area and find every airspace boundary near where you plan to fly. It’s the most practical way to master the chart questions and plan real jobs.
Where to buy
Remote Pilot Airman Certification Standards (ASA-ACS-10B) is sold by Skyfarer Shop. Find it on the Skyfarer marketplace or order directly from Skyfarer Shop. Either link shows the current price, shipping options and return terms.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a flight test for the remote pilot certificate?
No. Initial certification is based on the knowledge test. The ACS defines what it covers.
Do I need a Part 107 certificate?
Generally, yes, if you fly a drone for business or other non-recreational purposes in the US.
How do remote pilots stay current?
By completing FAA recurrent training every 24 calendar months.
