What’s New in UAG Testing
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is continuing to modernize airman knowledge testing by embedding graphics directly into test questions. The Unmanned Aircraft General–Small (UAG) exam is one of the knowledge tests that already includes questions with embedded images.
New Image-Based Questions Beginning October 26, 2026
Beginning October 26, 2026, the UAG knowledge test will include image-based questions that use graphics not found in the FAA knowledge testing supplement. The FAA states that these questions may use clearer, more current images from FAA charting products, including VFR charts.
This change means that applicants should be prepared to interpret chart information presented directly on the computer screen, even when the particular chart excerpt does not appear in the printed testing supplement.
Examples Provided by the FAA
The FAA’s September 2026 Airman Testing Community Advisory provides two sample UAG questions that illustrate the new format.
Airspace and ATC Authorization
One example uses an excerpt from the Washington Sectional showing Millville Municipal Airport (MIV). The applicant is asked to identify the type of airspace associated with the airport and determine whether ATC authorization is required for a small unmanned aircraft operation.
A. Class E that is associated with an airport surface area, authorization is required. ✔
B. Class G that is associated with an operating control tower, authorization is required.
C. Class B that is under the associated Class D airspace, authorization is not required.
Airport Frequency Information
A second example uses an excerpt from the Las Vegas Sectional showing Grand Canyon National Park Airport (GCN). The applicant is asked which frequency should be used as the Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) when the control tower is not operating.
A. 119.0✔
B. 124.3
C. 122.95
Study Tip: Do not rely on memorizing specific figure numbers or individual graphics from the testing supplement. Practice interpreting sectional-chart information, airport data, airspace boundaries, frequencies, and chart symbols from unfamiliar chart excerpts.our textbox content here.
Will the Testing Supplement Still Be Available?
Yes, for now. The FAA has not announced a date for removing testing supplements from testing centers. Until that happens, applicants will continue to have access to the appropriate testing supplement during the exam.
The FAA has stated that the public will receive advance notice before testing supplements are removed.
What This Means for UAG Applicants
- Some test questions may display the chart, table, or graphic directly on the computer screen.
- Beginning October 26, 2026, some UAG graphics may not be found in the printed testing supplement.
- The testing supplement will still be available until the FAA announces its removal.
- Applicants should focus on interpreting aviation information rather than memorizing specific figures.
- Practice with current sectional-chart excerpts is increasingly important.
Key Takeaway
The UAG knowledge test is moving toward a more integrated, screen-based format. The goal is not simply to recognize familiar figures from the testing supplement, but to demonstrate the ability to interpret current aviation information and apply that information correctly.
Source
Federal Aviation Administration. (2026, September). Airman Testing Community Advisory: September 2026 Special Edition. Graphics Conversion Project Update and Unmanned Aircraft General–Small (UAG) sample questions, pp. 5–10.
