Getting your Part 107 certificate opens doors to commercial drone work across multiple industries. Here’s everything you need to know about the certification process, from study prep through your first paid flights.
What Part 107 Certification Actually Is
The Remote Pilot Certificate—everyone calls it Part 107—is required for commercial drone operations in the US. Whether you’re planning aerial photography, infrastructure inspections, or agricultural work, this certification is your ticket to legal commercial flying.
The FAA implemented Part 107 in 2016 to establish safety standards for small unmanned aircraft under 55 pounds. The regulation balances safety with practicality, creating a framework that allows innovation while protecting airspace users and people on the ground.
Basic Requirements
Before pursuing Part 107, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria:
- At least 16 years old
- Can read, speak, write, and understand English
- Physically and mentally able to safely operate a small UAS
- Pass the aeronautical knowledge exam
- Complete TSA security screening
The requirements are deliberately accessible. But the knowledge exam ensures all certified pilots understand regulations, airspace, and safety considerations for responsible commercial operations.
The Knowledge Test
The Part 107 test has 60 multiple-choice questions covering drone operations and aviation fundamentals. You get two hours to complete it, and passing is 70% or higher—42 correct answers.
What’s on the Test:
Regulations (15-25% of questions)
Part 107 requirements including operating limitations, registration, and pilot responsibilities. Expect questions about maximum altitude, airspace classifications, and documentation.
Airspace Classification (15-25%)
Understanding controlled and uncontrolled airspace is critical. Test questions cover Class A through G airspace, special use airspace, and authorization requirements for controlled areas.
Weather (11-16%)
Aviation weather concepts including fog formation, wind patterns, and effects on drone performance. You’ll need to understand weather sources like METARs and TAFs.
Loading and Performance (7-11%)
Questions about how payload, altitude, temperature, and battery condition affect performance. Understanding these factors helps you operate safely within your aircraft’s capabilities.
Operations (35-45%)
This is the largest category, covering practical knowledge including pre-flight procedures, emergencies, and maintenance. Expect scenario-based questions requiring multiple concepts.
How to Study
Successful exam prep typically takes 15-30 hours of study, depending on your background. Here are effective approaches:
Official FAA Resources
The FAA provides free materials including the Remote Pilot Study Guide and the Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. These cover all exam topics and represent the authoritative source for test content.
Online Courses
Numerous online courses offer structured learning with video instruction, practice tests, and study guides. Quality courses typically run $100-300 and include passing guarantees. Look for courses that update content regularly.
Practice Exams
Taking multiple practice exams identifies weak areas and builds familiarity with question formats. Aim for consistent 85% or higher on practice tests before scheduling your actual exam.
Scheduling and Test Day
The Part 107 test is administered at FAA-authorized testing centers run by PSI Services. Schedule your exam online through PSI’s website or by phone. Testing centers exist throughout the country, with most metro areas having multiple options.
What to Bring
- Government-issued photo ID
- Authorization to test (provided when scheduling)
- Calculator (some centers provide these)
Testing centers provide scratch paper and sectional charts if needed. Personal electronics must be stored in a locker during the exam.
After You Pass
Passing the test is just step one. Several additional steps complete your certification:
Submit FAA Form 8710-13
Apply through the FAA’s Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) system. This online application links your exam results to your pilot certificate.
TSA Security Screening
TSA conducts background checks on all applicants. This typically takes 1-2 weeks but can occasionally take longer.
Get Your Certificate
Once TSA approves you, your temporary certificate appears in your IACRA account. Your permanent plastic certificate arrives by mail within 6-8 weeks.
Staying Current
Part 107 certificates stay valid indefinitely, but you must complete recurrent training every 24 calendar months to maintain operational privileges. The FAA offers free online recurrent training through the FAAST safety team website.
Recurrent Training
The recurrent course covers regulatory updates, safety best practices, and operational procedures. Completing it extends your privileges for another 24 months.
Beyond Basic Certification
While Part 107 authorizes standard commercial operations, some situations require additional authorizations:
- Operations in controlled airspace (LAANC or individual authorization)
- Night operations (included in current Part 107 with proper lighting)
- Operations over people (Category 1-4 authorization)
- Beyond visual line of sight operations (waiver required)
Understanding the waiver and authorization system lets you expand your operational capabilities for specific applications.
Career Options
Part 107 certification opens numerous paths in the growing drone industry:
Aerial Photography and Videography: Real estate, events, and media production increasingly rely on drone footage.
Infrastructure Inspection: Utilities, telecoms, and energy companies use drones for tower, line, and facility inspections.
Agriculture: Crop monitoring, mapping, and precision agriculture applications keep expanding.
Public Safety: Law enforcement and emergency services use drones for search and rescue, accident reconstruction, and situational awareness.
Surveying and Mapping: Construction, mining, and land management benefit from drone-based surveying.
Getting Started
Earning your Part 107 certification is the first step toward professional drone operations. With proper prep, most candidates pass the test on their first try. The time invested in studying pays off through safer operations and access to commercial opportunities in this rapidly growing field.
Whether you’re starting a drone services business or adding UAS capabilities to existing professional services, Part 107 provides the foundation for legal, safe, and successful commercial operations.
