Starting June 1, 2019, new rules will apply to drone pilots. They’ll need a pilot certificate and will have to register their drones.
Mandatory Certificate
Drone pilots will need a certificate to operate a drone weighing 250 g to 25 kg. There are two kinds of certificates depending on how you use the drone:
Basic operations certificate
If you’re 14 or older, you can get this certificate by passing an online test and paying the required fee. Pilots under 14 must be directly supervised by someone who has a certificate.
Advanced operations certificate
You need this kind of certificate if you’re going to operate your drone in controlled airspace or to fly over people.
You can get this certificate by passing an advanced online test and a flight evaluation with a flight reviewer. There’s a fee for both steps. You must be 16 or older. If you’re under 16, you must be supervised by someone who has an advanced operations certificate.
Registered drones
All drones weighing 250 g to 25 kg will have to be registered. The registration number must be marked on a clearly visible part of your drone.
You can get a fine of $1,000 if your drone isn’t registered or you don’t have the proper pilot certificate.
Online tests and registration are already available. So, act now to make sure you’re ready for June 1.