Any MSU employee or contractor to MSU that wishes to operate drones for MSU research, education, outreach, recreation or business activities under the Federal Aviation Administration UAS rule (Part 107) must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate. Detailed steps on this process can be found on the FAA Becoming a Certificated Remote Pilot web page.

The primary requirement is passing the Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG) aeronautical knowledge exam. 

• The cost to take this test is $175. 
• To remain certified, it is necessary to complete a free online recurrent training every 24 months.  

It is recommended that you spend considerable time preparing for this exam. While there are many options online, the Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences here at MSU offers a comprehensive online prep course called Part 107 Drone Test Prep & Beyond which was developed by RS&GIS geospatial staff.

Once you are a certificated remote pilot you are permitted to operate drones at MSU, assuming you have an approved Operations Plan and have acquired a compliant drone.