Do you want to take flight with a commercial drone pilot license? Well, you have arrived at the right place. In this guide, you will learn how to obtain your FAA Part 107 license and understand why drone certification is important for you.
Drones, or unmanned aerial systems (UAVs) are revolutionizing many industries across the board. Becoming a certified drone pilot will open doors to the numerous opportunities available in the market.
While roughly 90% of people who take the test pass on the first try, it does not mean the test is easy. You will need to have a solid understanding of safe flight operations, the regulations governing the use of drones, and aeronautical decision making.
That’s where drone certification comes into the picture.
If you are serious about building your career as a professional drone pilot, the Part 107 Certification will open the doors of opportunity for you.
Let’s take a quick look at the importance of Part 107 certification and what it means for you as a certified drone pilot.
Why FAA Part 107 License?
According to Precedence Research, the Drone Service Industry will be 87.02 billion dollars by 2032.
As more and more industries realize the incredible efficiency and cost savings offered by drones, the demand for certified drone pilots is only going northwards.
The opportunities are endless – right from mapping, surveying, and photography to videography, inspections, security, and 3D modeling just to name a few.
Also, the drones are increasingly being utilized for important life-saving missions such as search and rescue operations, assessing natural disaster damage, and identifying potential hazards.
To capitalize on these opportunities, earning your part 107 license is the ideal first step.
So, jump right in and learn the fundamentals of Part 107 certification and what it entails.
What is Drone Certification?
Drone certification, also known as a Remote Pilot Certificate or Part 107 license, is an official designation from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). If you’re planning to offer drone services to clients or potential employers, the Part 107 certification is a must.
FAA Part 107 License | Source: Medium.com
Earning this certification allows you to legally fly drones for commercial purposes in the United States. The certification process involves passing a knowledge test called the Part 107 exam. You also need to meet other FAA requirements.
Passing the Part 107 exam demonstrates that you have a good understanding of airspace regulations and safety protocols which prepares you to fly safely within the acceptable use policy provided by the FAA.
Let me give you a quick overview of the general guidelines you must be familiar with.
The Guidelines You Need to Follow as a Commercial Drone Pilot
Here are the guidelines for drone operators under Part 107:
- You can fly during daylight (30 minutes before official sunrise to 30 minutes after official sunset, local time) or in twilight if your drone has anti-collision lighting.
- Minimum weather visibility is three miles from your control station.
- Do not operate your drone from a moving vehicle unless you are flying your drone over a sparsely populated area and it does not involve the transportation of property for compensation or hire.
- Always avoid manned aircraft.
- Never operate your drone carelessly or recklessly.
- Keep your drone within sight. If you use First Person View or similar technology, you must have a visual observer and always keep your drone within unaided sight (for example, no binoculars).
- You cannot be a pilot or visual observer for more than one drone operation at a time.
- Do not fly a drone over people unless they are directly participating in the operation.
- Do not operate your drone from a moving aircraft.
Related Reading: Check out “New Drone Laws in the USA” to get more information on the regulations for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)
NOTE: If you are a recreational drone pilot, you need to pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST).
TRUST Certificate | Source: Reclaimdrone.com
Now that you are aware of the basics, let’s jump right into the steps to get a commercial drone pilot license.
How to Get an FAA Part 107 License: Step-by-Step Guide
Here are the steps you’ll need to take to earn your drone license:
Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Criteria
Step 2: Meet the Basic Requirements
Step 3: Prepare Exam Topics and Question Types
Step 4: Follow the Application Process and Take the Test
Step 1. Eligibility Criteria for Commercial Drone Certification
To earn a commercial drone pilot license under 14 CFR Part 107, here are the eligibility criteria.
For First-Time Pilots
You must:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English
- Be in a physical and mental condition to safely fly a drone
- Pass the initial aeronautical knowledge exam: “Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG)”
For Existing Part 61 Certificate Holders
- Must hold a pilot certificate issued under 14 CFR part 61
- Must have completed a flight review within the previous 24 months
Step 2. Basic Requirements for Drone Certification
Remote Pilot Certificate for First-Time Pilots:
- Must be easily accessible by the remote pilot during all UAS operations
- Certificate holders must complete an online recurrent training every 24 calendar months to maintain aeronautical knowledge recency
Remote Pilot Certificate for Existing Part 61 Certificate Holders:
- Must be easily accessible by the remote pilot during all UAS operations
- Certificate holders must complete an online recurrent training every 24 calendar months to maintain aeronautical knowledge recency
Step 3. Exam Topics and Question Types Related to FAA Part 107 License Exam
The Part 107 exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering the following topics:
Initial Aeronautical Knowledge Test Topic Areas – For First-Time Pilots Include:
- Applicable regulations relating to small unmanned aircraft system rating privileges, limitations, and flight operation
- Airspace classification and operating requirements, and flight restrictions affecting small unmanned aircraft operation
- Radio communication procedures
- Determining the performance of small unmanned aircraft
- Aviation weather sources and effects of weather on small unmanned aircraft performance
- Small unmanned aircraft loading and performance
- Emergency procedures
- Crew resource management
- Physiological effects of drugs and alcohol
- Aeronautical decision-making and judgment
- Airport operations
- Maintenance and preflight inspection procedures
- Operation at night
Part 107 Small UAS Initial (Alc-451) Online Training Course – For Existing Part 61 Certificate Holders Will Cover These Topic Areas:
- Emergency procedures
- Crew resource management
- Maintenance and preflight inspection procedures
- Operation at night
- Applicable regulations relating to small unmanned aircraft system rating privileges, limitations, and flight operation
- Effects of Weather on small unmanned aircraft performance
- Determining the performance of small unmanned aircraft
- Small unmanned aircraft loading and performance
Step 4. Drone Certification Application Process
Here are the steps to obtain your commercial drone pilot certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
A: Gather the Required Documents and Forms
Prepare the necessary documents and forms for your application. This typically includes
- Remote Pilot Certificate Application Form: This is the FAA Form 8710-13
- Proof of Identity: You must provide valid government-issued photo identification proof
- Proof of your current flight review (For Existing Part 61 Certificate Holders)
- Online course completion certificate (For Existing Part 61 Certificate Holders)
B: Apply for FAA Part 107 License
IACRA Login Page
Process for First-Time pilots
Step 1: Obtain an FAA Tracking Number (FTN) by creating an Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) profile before registering for a knowledge test.
Step 2: Schedule an appointment with an FAA-approved Knowledge Testing Center. Be sure to bring a government-issued photo ID to your test.
Step 3: Pass the initial aeronautical knowledge test: “Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG)”.
Step 4: Complete FAA Form 8710-13 for a remote pilot certificate (FAA Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application) using the electronic FAA Integrated Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application System (IACRA)*
- Login with username and password
- Click on “Start New Application” and 1) Application Type “Pilot”, 2) Certifications “Remote Pilot”, 3) Other Path Information, 4) Start Application
- Follow application prompts
- When prompted, enter the 17-digit Knowledge Test Exam ID (Note: it may take up to 48 hours from the test date for the knowledge test to appear in IACRA)
- Sign the application electronically and submit it for processing.
Process for Existing Part 61 Certificate Holders
Step 1: Create an account, or log into your existing account, on the FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) website.
Step 2: Complete the Part 107 Small UAS Initial (ALC-451) online training course.
Step 3: Create an account, or log into your existing account, in IACRA.
Step 4: Complete Form 8710-13 for a remote pilot certificate (FAA Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application) in IACRA.
- Login with username and password
- Click on “Start New Application” and 1) Application Type “Pilot”, 2) Certifications “Remote Pilot”, 3) Other Path Information, 4) Start Application
- Follow application prompts
- Sign the application electronically and submit it for processing.
Step 5: Make an appointment with one of the following entities to validate your identity. Bring your completed Form 8710-13, proof of your current flight review, photo ID, and your online course completion certificate.
- At an FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO)
- With an FAA-designated pilot examiner (DPE)
- An airman certification representative (ACR)
- An FAA-certificated flight instructor (CFI)*
Please note: * CFIs cannot issue temporary certificates. They can process applications for applicants who do not want a temporary certificate.
C: Waiting Period and Processing Time For Acquiring a Remote Pilot Certificate
After submitting the form as a first-time pilot, you will receive a confirmation email once your TSA security background check is complete. This email will contain instructions for printing a temporary remote pilot certificate from IACRA.
Typically, you’ll receive your temporary remote pilot certificate within a week.
Your permanent remote pilot certificate will be mailed once all other FAA-internal processing is complete. It will take approximately 6-10 weeks to process and send your permanent certificate.
If you hold a Part 61 certificate, you can have a representative sign your application and issue you a temporary airman certificate. You will get your permanent certificate via U.S. mail within a few weeks.
Make sure to have your Remote Pilot Certificate readily available whenever you operate your drone.
Obtaining your commercial drone pilot certificate is a significant milestone that involves navigating a formal application process with the FAA.
By diligently following the outlined steps and submitting a complete and accurate application, you can become a certified commercial drone pilot, enabling you to safely and legally operate drones for commercial purposes in full compliance with FAA regulations.
Now that we have covered the process of getting your Part 107 certification, let us focus on the elephant in the room, preparing for your Part 107 exam.
Preparing for the Drone Pilot License Exam?
The FAA Part 107 license exam is a comprehensive assessment designed to evaluate the knowledge and understanding of commercial drone pilots regarding the regulations and operational requirements for drone operations in the United States.
Drone U has helped over 20,000 pilots pass the Part 107 license exam. The ideal first step is to download our comprehensive Part 107 Study Guide.
FAA Part 107 License Study Guide
Commercial Drone Pilot License Guide by Drone U
The FAA provides an official study guide that covers all the topics included in the exam. It is a comprehensive resource that serves as the primary reference for exam preparation.
Drone Pilot License Online Courses
There are numerous online courses available that provide in-depth training on the topics covered in the commercial drone certification exam. These courses often include practice exams, study materials, and instructional videos to help aspiring pilots prepare effectively.
When it comes to preparing for your drone pilot license test, we’ve got you covered with
- Dedicated Test Prep Class
- Study Guide
- Live Class Replays
- Sample Quizzes
- Test Questions
Part 107 Study Material Offered by Drone U
FAA Official Website
The FAA website offers a wealth of information, including regulations, guides, and resources to prepare for the Part 107 test.
Tips for Preparing and Passing FAA Part 107 License Exam
After covering the exam procedure and study materials, it’s time for you to take your preparation to the next level! Here are some hand-picked tips to help you pass your commercial drone pilot exam:
Study the FAA Part 107 Study Guide Thoroughly:
The FAA study guide is the primary resource for exam preparation. Make sure you build a solid understanding of all the topics covered in the guide.
Take Drone Pilot License Practice Test:
Many online courses and study resources offer practice exams that can help you assess your knowledge and identify weak areas that require further review. So, it is always important to take as many practice exams as possible.
Review FAA Airspace Rules:
Familiarize yourself with the current FAA regulations and airspace rules, including airspace classification, airspace restrictions, and operational requirements for commercial drones.
Understand Weather and Meteorology:
Weather can significantly impact drone operations. Learn the basics of weather and meteorology, including reading weather charts and interpreting weather information.
Focus on Operational Safety:
Safety is a critical aspect of commercial drone operations. Study the operational safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and crew resource management concepts thoroughly.
Manage Exam Time:
The Part 107 exam has a time limit, so practice time management during your preparation. This will help you to pace yourself during the actual exam.
Stay Updated with FAA Regulations:
Since FAA regulations can change, it’s vital to stay up-to-date with the latest guidelines and regulations released by the FAA. You can find updated information on the USA drone laws page. Stay informed with the latest regulations to ensure safe and legal drone operations.
In conclusion, preparing for the FAA Part 107 license exam requires a thorough understanding of the FAA regulations, airspace rules, weather, and operational safety guidelines.
Essential Considerations for Commercial Drone Pilots
As a commercial drone operator, it’s crucial to be aware of the special considerations that come with the territory. From insurance requirements to airspace restrictions, these factors can significantly impact your operations.
Let’s take a closer look at a few of these considerations to ensure safe and compliant drone operations.
Part 107 Waivers and exemptions for specific operations:
Note: You do not need a waiver to fly a drone following Part 107 rules. You do need a waiver when you want to operate a drone contrary to the rules in Part 107 under the waivable operations listed below.
| To | You need a waiver from |
| Fly a small UAS from a moving aircraft or a vehicle in populated areas | § 107.25 – Operation from a Moving Vehicle or Aircraft |
| Fly a small UAS at night without anti-collision lighting | § 107.29(a)(2) – Operation at night |
| Fly a small UAS during periods of civil twilight without anti-collision lighting | § 107.29(b) – Operation at Night |
| Fly a small UAS beyond your ability to clearly determine the position, altitude, attitude, and movement of the sUA, with unaided vision. | § 107.31 – Visual Line of Sight Aircraft Operation |
| Use a visual observer without following all visual observer requirements | § 107.33 – Visual Observer |
| Fly multiple small UAS with only one remote pilot | § 107.35 – Operation of Multiple Small UAS |
| Fly over a person with a small UAS which does not meet conditions of operational categories 1, 2, 3, or 4 | § 107.39 – Operation over human beings. |
Fly a small UAS:
|
§ 107.51 – Operating Limitations for Small Unmanned Aircraft |
| Fly over moving vehicles with a small UAS which does not meet conditions of operational categories 1, 2, 3, or 4 | § 107.145 – Operations Over Moving Vehicles |
Request a waiver for only what you need to fly your mission. Additionally, you can review the criteria to evaluate waiver applications: Part 107 Waiver – Section Specific Evaluation Information (PDF)
Airspace Authorizations
Operations in Class G airspace are allowed without air traffic control (ATC) permission. Class B, C, D, and E airspace operations need ATC authorization.
The Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) uses desktop and mobile apps designed to support the volume of drone operations with almost real-time airspace authorizations. It is now live at more than 530 FAA ATC facilities covering over 726 airports throughout the country. any authorizations are granted within seconds of being submitted.
Currently, LAANC only applies to FAA ATC facilities and does not yet include contract or Department of Defense ATC facilities.
FAADroneZone
FAADroneZone is a one-stop, online shop for drone registration and for requesting waivers or airspace authorizations (where LAANC is not available).
FAADroneZone Drone Registration
B4UFLY App
The B4UFLY app provides situational awareness to recreational flyers and other drone users, including interactive maps that show where recreational flyers can and cannot fly.
The B4UFLY app is available for free download on the App Store for iOS and the Google Play Store for Android. In addition to the mobile app, B4UFLY also offers a desktop version for preflight planning and research.
Check out this video to address any concerns and get clarification about the FAA Part 107 certification:
Understanding Terminology: Definitions in 14 CFR Part 107
Control Station
An interface used by the remote pilot to control the flight path of the small unmanned aircraft
Corrective Lenses
This means spectacles or contact lenses
Small Unmanned Aircraft
An unmanned aircraft weight less than 55 lbs. on takeoff, including everything that is on board or otherwise attached to the aircraft
Small Unmanned Aircraft System
A small unmanned aircraft and its associated elements are required for the safe and efficient operation of small unmanned aircraft in the national airspace system
Unmanned Aircraft
An aircraft operated without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the aircraft.
Visual Observer
A person who is designated by the remote pilot in command to assist the remote pilot in command and the person manipulating the flight controls of the sUAS to see and avoid other air traffic or objects aloft or on the ground.
Person Manipulating the Controls
A person other than the remote pilot in command who is controlling the flight of an sUAS under the supervision of the remote PIC
Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)
A person who holds a remote pilot certificate with an sUAS rating and has the final authority and responsibility for the operation and safety of an sUAS operation conducted under Part 107.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a drone pilot license to fly a drone in the USA?
To operate your drone under the FAA’s Small UAS Rule (Part 107), you must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA. If you intend to fly for recreational purposes, you must pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST).
How do I get FAA approval for drones?
To fly under Part 107 rules, there are 3 main steps.
Step 1: Learn the Rules
Step 2: Become an FAA-Certified Drone Pilot by Passing the Knowledge Test
Step 3: Register your Drone with the FAA
What is the validity of a remote pilot certificate?
The Remote Pilot Certificate is valid for two years. After that, you’ll need to complete a recurrent training course and pass a knowledge test to renew your certificate.
What should I study for the Part 107 aeronautical knowledge test?
Study materials are available online. Applicants can review the Airman Certification Standards (ACS) for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (PDF), the Remote Pilot Study Guide (PDF), and the online sample questions (PDF) available on the FAA website.
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