Remote Operating Certificate, or ROC, is a document verifying authorization for individuals or organizations to remotely operate certain systems or devices, such as drones or industrial machinery.
The Remote Operating Certificate (ROC) is an essential document for drone operators and companies seeking to conduct complex or advanced drone operations beyond basic or recreational use. This certificate, issued by national aviation authorities, ensures compliance with safety regulations and demonstrates a commitment to efficiency and safety.
The ROC Process
The process of obtaining an ROC varies by country but generally follows an overarching pattern of certification, registration, and compliance with aviation safety regulations. Key steps include:
- Registering the drone with the relevant aviation authority.
- Applying for an operator certificate, which often requires proof of operational capability and safety processes.
- Licensing the remote pilot(s) through exams or training.
- Meeting specific operational requirements such as maintaining visual line of sight, using visual observers where mandated, and adhering to altitude and distance limits.
Detailed documentation outlining operational procedures, safety protocols, pilot qualifications, risk assessments, and contingency plans is required during the application process. In some cases, real-time reporting systems or integration with air traffic control may be necessary, depending on the operation's complexity.
ROC Around the World
United States
While the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) does not issue a certificate explicitly called "ROC," commercial drone operations require a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA. Operations beyond standard limits may require a Certificate of Waiver with specific provisions like visual observers, communication protocols, and operational restrictions, as detailed in FAA guidelines.
South Africa
Commercial drone operators in South Africa must obtain a Remote Operators Certificate (ROC) alongside a Remote Pilot License to legally operate drones commercially. The process involves registering the drone through specific forms and obtaining regulatory approvals, including an Air Service Licence, the RPAS Operators Certificate (ROC), Remote Pilot Licence, and Certificate of Registration.
Venezuela
Operators wishing to conduct commercial drone operations in Venezuela must obtain a drone operator certificate (ROC) similar to the traditional Air Operator Certificate (AOC). The process does not differentiate between domestic and foreign operators, though certification timelines vary by drone class.
ICAO Guidance
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) suggests that drone operators should hold an RPAS Operator Certificate (ROC) akin to an Air Operator Certificate used in conventional aviation. This framework is being increasingly adopted in various countries to ensure safety and regulatory compliance for commercial drone use.
ROC and Enterprise-Grade Missions
The ROC is particularly relevant for drone operators who want to engage in enterprise-grade missions such as infrastructure inspection, aerial delivery, mapping, or emergency response. A Canadian drone company specializing in oil pipeline inspections has secured an ROC for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) missions along remote infrastructure corridors.
By obtaining an ROC, companies position themselves for larger contracts and higher-value projects, and build trust with clients and government agencies who require demonstrated regulatory compliance. In some jurisdictions, qualified individuals may apply for an ROC, although it is primarily geared toward organizations.
The term and process for obtaining an ROC may vary from country to country. In Canada, the ROC aligns closely with Advanced Operations under Part IX of the Canadian Aviation Regulations. The ROC application and review process can take several weeks to months, depending on the complexity of the request.
- For drone operators and companies seeking to conduct complex or advanced operations, obtaining a Remote Operating Certificate (ROC) is essential, as it demonstrates compliance with safety regulations and commitment to efficiency and safety, while ensuring regulatory compliance for commercial drone use.
- The ROC is particularly relevant for businesses engaged in enterprise-grade missions such as infrastructure inspection, aerial delivery, mapping, or emergency response, as it positions them for larger contracts and higher-value projects, and builds trust with clients and government agencies who require demonstrated regulatory compliance.
