CA AB527

Requires pilots operating manned aircraft in pest control to hold a valid manned pest control aircraft pilot's certificate from the director, plus a commercial pilot's certificate and medical certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration.

Requires pilots operating unmanned aircraft systems in pest control to hold either a valid manned or unmanned pest control aircraft pilot's certificate from the director and be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration to operate unmanned aircraft systems approved for pest control.

Establishes three pilot certificate statuses for unmanned aircraft operations: journeyman, apprentice, and vector control technician, with vector control technician status requiring State Department of Public Health certification.

Requires all applicants for apprentice, journeyman, or vector control technician certificates to pass an examination demonstrating knowledge of legal and safe pest control operations and pesticide materials.

Allows the director to refuse, revoke, or suspend pest control aircraft pilot certificates for violations of pesticide regulations, Federal Aviation Administration regulations for unmanned aircraft, or failure to maintain required qualifications.