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Drone Pilots

Exploring This Job

The best way to learn about this career is to purchase an inexpensive drone (or borrow one) and practice flying it. If you buy a drone that weighs between 0.55 lbs. and 55 lbs., you must register it with the FAA (https://faadronezone.faa.gov). If you become skilled at drone operation, consider competing in drone racing events sponsored by the Drone Sports Association (http://dronesportsassociation.com) and other organizations. Another option is to join your high school or college’s drone or aviation club to meet people with the same interests and learn more about drone technology. (And if such a club doesn’t exist, start one.) Finally, check out the following resources to learn more about drones:  

  • The UAVSA Drones Daily: http://news.uavsa.org
  • Drone Law Journal: http://dronelawjournal.com
  • DronesX: https://dronesx.com
  • A Glossary of Drone Terminology and Vocabulary: https://www.dslrpros.com/dslrpros-blog/drone-vocabulary-glossary-terminology

Visit online drone discussion boards and talk to others about the field. Sites to check out include:

  • www.droneflyers.com/talk
  • http://community.uavcoach.com
  • https://diydrones.com/forum
  • http://dronepilots.zone
  • www.dronevibes.com/forums