How often must a remote pilot pass the FAA's knowledge test to maintain their certification?

To maintain their certification, a remote pilot is required to pass the FAA's knowledge test every 24 months. This requirement is in place to ensure that pilots remain current with the regulations, procedures, and safety measures pertaining to unmanned aircraft systems. The knowledge test serves as a means to reinforce the necessary knowledge and skills that are critical for safe operation.

Passing the test every two years helps to ensure that remote pilots are up to date with any changes to regulations, technological advancements, and emerging best practices in the field. This periodic assessment is crucial because the drone industry is rapidly evolving, and regulations can change based on new safety information or technological developments.

The option indicating certification only once does not account for the continuous nature of safety and knowledge maintenance that is essential in aviation. Similarly, the other timeframes, such as annually or every five years, do not align with the established FAA requirements for keeping pilots informed and competent over time. The 24-month interval strikes a balance between allowing pilots sufficient time to consolidate their knowledge and ensuring they are not too far out of date with industry standards.