UAS Flight Proficiency Examination: Proctor Guide for PROPS Test (2026)
Chapter: 1 Introduction
CHAPTER 1
Introduction
To legally operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) under 14 CFR Part 107, remote pilots in command (RPICs) must obtain a remote pilot certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This certification requires passing a multiple-choice knowledge test that covers topics such as regulations, airspace classification, weather, aircraft performance, and operational procedures. While the Part 107 test assesses theoretical knowledge, it does not evaluate a pilotʼs practical flight skills or aircraft handling capabilities. The purpose of this project is to provide state departments of transportation (DOTs) with voluntary guidelines for assessing the flight proficiency of their RPICs. The Pilot Readiness and Operational Proficiency Standardized Test (PROPS Test) is a field examination administered by a proctor to evaluate an RPICʼs ability to operate a UAS. This guide offers a detailed overview of how the examination was developed, including evaluation criteria and sample responses to questions. The goal is to equip state DOTs with the tools to establish a tiered certification system that certifies that their RPICs are capable of handling UAS missions of varying complexity.
The Pilot Readiness and Operational Proficiency Standardized Test (PROPS Test) is available on the National Academies Press website (nationalacademies.org/publications) by searching for NCHRP Research Report 1173 and looking under “Additional Materials.”
Recommendations for State DOT Flight Proficiency Certification
This guide recommends the adoption of a three-tiered certification program. The certification is based on the RPICʼs skills and knowledge of a specific or very similar aircraft. RPICs should be credentialed for each aircraft they are expected to operate.
Level 1
The first level of the certification framework is essentially a learnerʼs permit. The requirement to earn this certification is an FAA remote pilot certificate and having passed the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Basic Proficiency Evaluation for Remote Pilots (BPERP) flight skills examination with a score of 80% in 10 minutes. This can be completed with a simulator or by in-person examination. (All state DOTs have licenses to a NIST simulator, which is available at no cost at https://zephyr-sim.com.) No minimum flight hour experience is required. The overarching intention is to use this certification as a means for RPICs to demonstrate that they have sufficient skills and knowledge to begin their real-world flight training. Passing the PROPS Test is not required for a Level 1 certificate.
Level 2
The second level of certification is for basic UAS missions that are not near objects or involve any significant hazard. Examples include a terrestrial mapping mission and high-altitude
observation of traffic flow. The requirement to earn this certificate is to answer all the PROPS Test questions described in this guide at the proficiency levels identified in ASTM F3266. A minimum of 20 hours of flight time with the same aircraft is required.
Level 3
The third level of certification is for advanced UAS missions where significant hazards are present. Examples include a bridge inspection mission and operations in confined spaces. The requirement to earn this certificate is to answer all the PROPS Test questions described in this document at the highest proficiency level identified in ASTM F3266. A minimum of 40 hours of flight time in the same aircraft is required.
Recurrency
It is recommended that RPICs demonstrate their flight proficiency by using the PROPS Test or other means identified by the state DOT every 24 months.
Structure of Assessment
The PROPS Test consists of four parts that together provide a comprehensive assessment of an RPICʼs piloting skills and knowledge. Parts 1 and 2 assess the RPICʼs ground training, and Parts 3 and 4 their flight training. The examination is administered by a single proctor, who assesses the RPICʼs abilities in both mission planning and practical flight execution.
Ground Training Assessment
Part 1: Mission Planning. This part evaluates the RPICʼs ability to conduct thorough pre-mission planning. The RPIC is assessed on their capacity to check airspace, obstacles in the environment, suitable takeoff and landing area, and weather conditions and to identify any special operational considerations within controlled or restricted airspace. The focus is on ensuring the RPIC can effectively plan for and mitigate potential risks before the flight.
Part 2: Aircraft Capabilities and Functionality. In this section, the RPIC is tested on their knowledge of the specific UAS being used, including its capabilities, tolerances, and functions. The RPIC must demonstrate an understanding of the aircraftʼs operational limits as well as how to operate its controls, sensors, and telemetry systems.
Flight Training Assessment
Part 3: Check Ride. The RPIC is required to conduct all aspects of a typical UAS mission in the presence of a flight instructor. This includes all preflight procedures, performing prescribed flight maneuvers, and responding to emergency situations. The activities in this part are not timed, as they are in Part 4, the Flight Control Assessment, thereby allowing the RPIC to demonstrate proficiency at their own pace.
Part 4: Flight Control Assessment. This final section involves completing a timed flight proficiency evaluation based on the NIST BPERP. The RPIC must perform a series of precise flight maneuvers within a set time limit, demonstrating their ability to control the UAS under pressure and in line with standardized flight expectations.
