Taking The Airman Knowledge Test: What You Need to Know
Since the June 21st announcement of FAA Part 107, drone pilots
throughout the country have been scrambling to become certified to fly for non-recreational purposes. UAV pilots can obtain the requisite Remote Pilot Certificate by passing the FAAs newly announced Aeronautical Knowledge Test, which will become available on August 29, 2016.
We’ve put together some information that should help you as you prepare for the test:
1. When can I take the exam?
The first time the exam will be offered by the FAA is August 29th. After that date, you should be able to take the exam at any time depending on availability at a testing center.
2. Where can I take the exam?
There are currently 696 testing centers in the United States. You can find one near you here.
3. How do I register for the exam?
You can pre-register for the exam here, where you can pay your registration fee, but not choose a test date just yet. Within a few days, a representative from a CATS Testing Center will call you to reserve your spot. Starting Tuesday, July 26th, you can call the CATS facility directly to book your test day at 800-947-4228.
4. How much does it cost to take the exam?
There is a $150 fee every time you take the exam.
5. What should I expect in the exam?
Each testing center will have a proctor and a few computer stations on which you can take your electronic exam. The proctor will take your fingerprints upon your arrival and on each time you leave the room. You will have two hours to complete the test and you will receive your score when you complete the test.
6. What if I fail the test?
If you fail the test, you will need to wait 14 days before you can register again. You will need to pay the $150 fee each time you take the exam.
7. What can/should I bring into the exam?
Make sure you bring your driver’s license, a basic calculator, and a pencil and paper. You are not allowed to bring advanced calculators, mobile phone or other devices into the test room.
8. Can I cancel my test date?
You can cancel your exam up to 24 hours in advance.
9. When should I take the test?
Some drone lovers (like our CEO) are already signed up and ready to take the exam on August 29th. Others are planning to wait and see how difficult other test takers find the exam.
10. Do I need to study for the exam?
Some drone pilots confidently believe they will pass the test without extensive studying and preparation. The FAA recently released 40 practice questions for the exam that could be considered difficult and confusing to even experienced pilots.
DARTdrones recently launched our UAS Ground School course both online and in-person. This course will teach you everything you need to know to pass the Airman Knowledge Test. Test topics include Regulations, Airspace, Flight Restrictions, Chart Study, Airport Operations, Radio Communications, Aviation Weather, Maintenance and Procedures, Crew Resource Management, Hazards to Flight, Aviation Physiology, and Prepping for the Test.
P.S. Our CEO, Abby Speicher, is signed up to take the exam at 8AM on the morning of August, 29th so stay tuned for some more detailed information that morning.
