How to choose a drone school
A checklist for comparing drone schools: instructors, hands-on hours, equipment, pass rates and what is actually included.
Instructors
Ask who teaches the course and what certificates and commercial experience they hold.
Hands-on hours
Check how many hours you will actually fly, and how many students share each drone and instructor.
Equipment and software
Find out whether drones are supplied, which models you will train on, and which software (mapping, thermal, flight logging) is covered.
What is included
Confirm whether the FAA test fee is included (it is usually paid separately to the testing centre), whether there is a retake policy, and what you receive at the end.
Credentials and wording
Be cautious of any provider that claims to issue an FAA licence. Schools prepare you; the FAA issues the certificate.
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