This module focuses on certification and other requirements related to the aircraft and Remote Pilot in Command (Remote PIC). As a Remote PIC, you must satisfy these requirements before operating sUAS.

This lesson focuses on the aircraft itself and describes:

• sUAS characteristics
• Part 107 exclusions
• Requirements for registration, markings, and condition

14 CFR part 107 applies to the operation of certain civil small unmanned aircraft within the NAS. Except for certain excluded aircraft operations, any aircraft that meets the criteria below is considered a small unmanned aircraft.

Small unmanned aircraft:

• Weigh less than 55 pounds (25 kg), including everything that is onboard or otherwise attached to the aircraft
• Are operated without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the aircraft

A small unmanned aircraft system includes the unmanned aircraft itself and its associated elements that are required for safe operation, such as communication links and components that control the aircraft.

Not all small unmanned aircraft are subject to 14 CFR part 107.

14 CFR part 107 does not apply to the following items or operations:

• Model aircraft that meet the criteria in 14 CFR part 101.41 (describes circumstances in which model aircraft can be operated safely in the NAS). For more information, see AC 91-57 (as amended).
• Amateur rockets
• Moored balloons or unmanned free balloons
• Kites
• Operations conducted outside the United States
• Public aircraft operations
• Air carrier operations

Like other types of civil aircraft, most sUAS must be registered with the FAA prior to operating in the NAS.

Owners must register the sUAS if it is greater than 0.55 lbs and operated under the provisions of 14 CFR part 107. The owner must satisfy the registration requirements described in 14 CFR part 47, Aircraft Registration, or part 48, Registration and Marking Requirements for Small Unmanned Aircraft. If the owner is less than 13 years of age, then the small unmanned aircraft must be registered by a person who is at least 13 years of age.

14 CFR part 48 establishes the streamlined online registration option for sUAS that will be operated only within the territorial limits of the United States.

Visit the Resources page to access:

• FAA guidance on sUAS registration and marking
• FAA's online UAS registration website

An sUAS operation requires a Foreign Aircraft Permit if it involves a civil aircraft that is:

• Registered in a foreign country, or
• Owned, controlled, or operated by someone who is not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

If either criteria is met, the Remote PIC should obtain a Foreign Aircraft Permit pursuant to 14 CFR part 375.41 before conducting any operations. Application instructions are specified in 14 CFR part 375.43, Navigation of Foreign Civil Aircraft within the United States. Submit the application by electronic mail to the Department of Transportation (DOT) Office of International Aviation, Foreign Air Carrier Licensing Division.

Visit the Resources page to access 14 CFR part 375.43 and additional guidance at the DOT Foreign Air Carrier Economic Licensing website.

Before operation, mark the sUAS to identify that it is registered with the FAA.

The registration marking must be:

• A unique identifier number. This is typically the FAA-issued registration number or the serial number, if authorized during registration.
• Legible and durable. Sample methods include engraving, permanent marker, or self-adhesive label.
• Visible or accessible. The number may be enclosed in a compartment only if you can access the compartment without tools.

Visit the Resources page to access 14 CFR part 48 (80 FR 78594), Registration and Marking Requirements for Small Unmanned Aircraft, (Dec. 16, 2015).

An FAA airworthiness certification is not required for sUAS. However, the Remote PIC must maintain and inspect the sUAS prior to each flight to ensure that it is in a condition for safe operation. For example, inspect the aircraft for equipment damage or malfunctions. 

More information about maintenance and preflight inspections is provided later in this course.

This lesson examined the requirements for sUAS registration, markings, and condition.

In summary, 14 CFR part 107 applies to certain civil small unmanned aircraft operations conducted within the NAS for purposes other than hobby or recreation. Most sUAS must be registered with FAA and appropriately marked. Airworthiness certification is not required for sUAS. However, the Remote PIC must ensure that the sUAS is in a condition for safe operation prior to flight.

You should now be able to:

• Define small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS)
• Identify exclusions from the requirements in part 107
• Identify the requirements for sUAS registration, markings, and condition

The next lesson examines the responsibilities of the Remote Pilot in Command.

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