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Authorization for operations without remote identification

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 4 of 8 on Regulations / Remote Identification. ACS element UA.I.F.K3 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONUnder 14 CFR part 89, for which purpose may the Administrator authorize an unmanned aircraft operation to be conducted without remote identification?

  1. ASolely for aeronautical research or to show compliance with regulations
  2. BSolely for agricultural operations conducted over the operator's own private property
  3. CAny operation flown entirely within Class G airspace below 400 feet AGL
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. Solely for aeronautical research or to show compliance with regulations

  • A — correct § 89.120 states that the Administrator may authorize operations without remote identification where the operation is solely for the purpose of aeronautical research or to show compliance with regulations.
  • B — incorrect Part 89 contains no agricultural or private-property exception; the only purpose-based authorization in § 89.120 is aeronautical research or showing compliance with regulations.
  • C — incorrect The remote identification requirement of § 89.105 applies to operations within the airspace of the United States regardless of airspace class or altitude; Class G airspace is not an exception.

BACKGROUND

Remote identification is the ability of an unmanned aircraft in flight to broadcast identification and location information. Under § 89.105, after September 16, 2023, no person may operate an unmanned aircraft within the airspace of the United States unless the operation meets the standard remote identification requirements of § 89.110 or the alternative requirements of § 89.115. The regulation lists two ways around this: an authorization from the Administrator, or an operation covered by § 89.120. Section 89.120 allows the Administrator to authorize operations without remote identification when the operation is solely for aeronautical research or to show compliance with regulations.

STUDY TIP

Memorize the two purposes named in § 89.120 as a pair: aeronautical research and showing compliance with regulations. Any other purpose offered as an exception is a distractor.

KEY POINTS

  • § 89.105 requires remote identification for unmanned aircraft operated in U.S. airspace after September 16, 2023.
  • § 89.120 lets the Administrator authorize operations without remote identification for aeronautical research or to show compliance with regulations.
  • Airspace class, altitude, or the type of commercial work does not by itself exempt an operation from remote identification.

SOURCES

  • 14 CFR 89.120
  • 14 CFR 89.105
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MORE ON REGULATIONS / REMOTE IDENTIFICATION

SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on 14 CFR part 107, 14 CFR part 89, and the FAA Remote Pilot – Small UAS Study Guide (FAA-G-8082-22). Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.