Experimental UAS
The FAA issues Special Airworthiness Certificates in the Experimental Category (SAC-EC) to civil operators of UAS and optionally piloted aircraft (OPA) for research and development, market survey, and crew training operations. This certificate does not extend to the carrying of persons or property for compensation or hire. The FAA has issued these certificates since 2005 to a limited number of applicants who work with the FAA to collect technical and operational data to improve the UAS certification process.
Public UAS
The FAA issues Certificates of Waiver or Authorization (COA) to public entities, including military, law enforcement, and other government agencies. These certificates are issued on a case – by-case basis for a limited period of time, usually one year, and with restrictions for their use, such as the requirement for being transponder equipped.