Part 107 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (or the Small Drone Rule) applies to nonhobbyist small unmanned aircraft (UAS) commercial operations of all drones under 55 pounds. The final rule will go into effect on August 29, 2016. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently released a guide and a short video for UAS operators to use in preparation for the required aeronautical knowledge test, which is now an integral component to the commercial operation of UAS and in obtaining a required remote pilot certificate.

To qualify for the certificate, the individual must pass the aeronautical knowledge test at an FAA-approved knowledge testing site or have an existing nonstudent Part 61 pilot certificate.

However, even if the individual has a Part 61 license, they must take a FAA UAS online training course and have completed a flight review in the prior 24 months.

Additionally, Part 107 sets forth specific operating requirements (and restrictions). Read a summary of those requirements here.