FAA Part 107 Drone License - Get Licensed & Fly Legally

Navigating the FAA Part 107 Drone Landscape

The FAA Part 107 regulations are essential for anyone wanting to use a drone for commercial work. This extends beyond large corporations; even small jobs can fall under this rule. Taking aerial photos to sell a property, for instance, or inspecting a roof for damage, requires Part 107 certification. Grasping these regulations isn't just about avoiding fines; it's about creating a sustainable, reputable drone operation.

Who Needs an FAA Part 107 Drone License?

The main difference is between recreational flying and commercial operations. Recreational flying is simply flying for fun, without the goal of making money. However, when you use your drone for any revenue-generating activity, you enter commercial territory.

This includes things like aerial photography for real estate, infrastructure inspections, or even including drone footage in paid social media promotions. Many remote companies hire drone pilots for these tasks. You can explore these opportunities through resources like Remote First Jobs.

By 2025, almost all non-recreational drone flights in the U.S. will be governed by Part 107, covering drones weighing less than 55 pounds. This ensures drone operations are conducted safely. Understanding the rules beforehand is key.

Activities such as taking photos for property sales or performing roof inspections fall under Part 107. The FAA advises that if you're unsure if a flight is recreational, operate under Part 107 to guarantee compliance.

Why is Part 107 Important?

FAA Part 107 sets a standard for safety and professionalism in the drone industry. Certification demonstrates your commitment to safe practices and a strong understanding of airspace rules. This protects you from potential legal problems and builds trust with clients.

Knowing the regulations also increases your efficiency. You'll operate confidently within legal boundaries, giving you a competitive edge to offer more services and meet client needs effectively.

Your FAA Part 107 Drone Certification Roadmap

Thinking about turning your drone hobby into a career? Getting your FAA Part 107 drone certification is the first step. This roadmap will help you understand the process and give you some practical tips for a smooth journey to becoming a certified commercial drone pilot.

Understanding The Process

Getting your Part 107 certification involves a few key steps. It all starts with getting an FAA Tracking Number (FTN). You can get this through the Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) system. This is the foundation of your application. Want more info? Check out this helpful guide: How to master the Part 107 process.

Next, you'll need to study for the Unmanned Aircraft General - Small (UAG) knowledge test. This exam covers essential topics like regulations, airspace, weather conditions, and what to do in an emergency. Proper preparation is crucial for passing.

Once you've aced the exam, you'll submit the required paperwork (FAA Form 8710-13) through IACRA. Then, you'll undergo a TSA security background check. This stage is all about proper documentation and meeting the FAA's requirements. Upon approval, you'll receive your remote pilot certificate. The final step is registering your drone with the FAA. This is a simple online process with a small fee.

To help clarify the process, here’s a breakdown of the requirements:

Part 107 Certification Requirements

Key eligibility criteria and steps to obtain your FAA Part 107 drone license

Requirement	Details	Notes
Age	At least 16 years old
Knowledge Test	Pass the UAG exam	Covers regulations, airspace, weather, and emergencies
Application	Submit FAA Form 8710-13 through IACRA
TSA Background Check	Undergo a security screening	Required for all applicants
Drone Registration	Register your drone with the FAA	Involves a small fee
Recurrent Knowledge Test	Every two years	Required to maintain certification

This table summarizes the core components of becoming a certified drone pilot, highlighting the importance of each step. Remember, staying informed and prepared is the key to success.

Preparing For The Knowledge Test

The knowledge test often poses the biggest hurdle for aspiring drone pilots. Successful test-takers recommend focusing on a few key areas. Mastering airspace classifications, weather interpretation, and understanding sectional charts will significantly improve your chances of passing.

Maintaining Your Certification

Your Part 107 certificate is valid for two years. To keep it current, you'll need to take a recurrent knowledge test within that timeframe. Staying up-to-date on regulations is vital for continuing to operate commercially. Considering a career in property management after getting your Part 107? Explore the necessary certifications and licenses for property managers.

Timeline And Expectations

The entire certification process can take several weeks, from submitting your application to receiving your certificate. Plan ahead and manage your time wisely. This will help minimize any potential delays. With the right preparation and a solid understanding of the requirements, you can confidently navigate the process and achieve your goal of becoming a certified FAA Part 107 drone pilot.

Mastering the FAA Part 107 Drone Knowledge Exam

The infographic above shows the $175 exam fee, the two-hour testing window, and the 70% minimum passing score for the FAA Part 107 exam. Knowing these details underscores the need for focused preparation to clear the test on your first try.

Approaching the knowledge exam can be intimidating, but with insights from certified remote pilots and proven study techniques, you can build confidence and tackle each question effectively.

Key Topics To Focus On

Some areas demand extra attention:

• Airspace Classifications: Understand Classes A through G and the operating rules for each.
• Weather Interpretation: Learn to read METARs, TAFs, and recognize weather patterns that affect drone performance.
• Sectional Charts: Practice plotting courses, identifying landmarks, and reading altitude data.

Mastering these topics is like knowing traffic laws before getting behind the wheel—you’ll navigate the airspace safely.

Effective Study Strategies

Gathering the right materials is your first step:

• Online courses such as Drone Pilot Ground School
• FAA’s official Remote Pilot – Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Study Guide
• Practice exams on the FAA website
• ASA’s Test Prep for the Remote Pilot certificate

Supplement these resources with official FAA publications to ensure your understanding of the regulations is rock solid. Regularly taking timed practice tests will help you spot weak areas and get used to the exam format.

Part 107 Exam Topic Breakdown

Below is a breakdown of the main exam topics, how much each contributes to your score, the key concepts involved, and recommended study resources.

Knowledge Area	Percentage of Exam	Key Concepts	Study Resources
Airspace Classifications	20%	Class boundaries, special use airspace	FAA Sectional Chart User’s Guide; Drone Pilot Ground School modules
Regulations	15%	Certificate requirements, waiver processes	FAA Remote Pilot Study Guide; ASA Test Prep
Weather Interpretation	15%	METARs, TAFs, frontal systems	National Weather Service tutorials; FAA Aviation Weather Services
Loading & Performance	10%	Weight and balance, center of gravity	FAA Weight and Balance Handbook; Practice problem sets
Operations & Flight Planning	15%	Risk management, NOTAMs, preflight inspections	FAA Advisory Circular 107-2; Online scenario-based quizzes
Emergency Procedures	10%	Battery failures, lost-link protocols	FAA Remote Pilot Safety Tips; Simulation exercises
Radio Communication Procedures	10%	Phonetic alphabet, transmission protocols	FAA Aeronautical Information Manual; Practice radio calls
Airport Operations	15%	Taxi rules, runway markings, right-of-way	FAA Airport Operations Guide; Chart reading practice

This table highlights which areas carry the most weight and directs you to the best references for each topic.

Key Insight: Concentrate first on topics with the highest exam percentages—Airspace Classifications, Weather Interpretation, and Operations & Flight Planning—to maximize your study efficiency.

Practical Memory Techniques

Retention improves when you make study engaging:

• Mnemonics for lists like airspace classes (e.g., “All Birds Can Dive...”).
• Flashcards for regulations, definitions, and chart symbols.

These methods break complex material into bite-sized chunks and help you recall facts under pressure.

Efficient Study Schedules

Building a routine is vital, especially for busy schedules:

• Break study material into 30–60 minute sessions.
• Schedule regular reviews every few days to reinforce learning.
• Include short breaks to sustain focus and prevent burnout.

Even brief, consistent study sessions trump marathon cramming.

Test-Taking Strategies

On exam day:

• Read each question thoroughly.
• Eliminate clearly wrong answers to narrow choices.
• Flag uncertain questions and revisit them later.

With proper study and a calm approach, you’ll demonstrate your mastery of FAA Part 107 regulations and earn your remote pilot certificate—the gateway to commercial drone operations.

Flying Legally: Operational Boundaries for Part 107 Pilots

Understanding the operational limitations under FAA Part 107 is crucial for safe and legal drone operations. Knowing where, when, and how you can fly transforms theoretical knowledge into practical application for your drone business.

Airspace Restrictions and LAANC

A key aspect of Part 107 involves understanding airspace restrictions. You'll need to become familiar with different airspace classifications and how they impact your flight operations. For instance, flying near airports requires meticulous planning and, in most cases, authorization. This authorization is typically obtained through LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability). LAANC allows you to digitally request permission to fly in controlled airspace, which simplifies the process. For further information on drone flight restrictions, check out this helpful resource: How to master drone flight restrictions.

Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) and Pre-Flight Procedures

Maintaining Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) with your drone is another fundamental requirement. This means you must be able to see your drone unaided at all times during flight. Thorough pre-flight procedures are essential for ensuring compliance and safe operations. These procedures might include:

• Checking airspace restrictions
• Verifying weather conditions
• Inspecting your drone for potential issues

Pre-flight checks mitigate risks and help ensure a successful flight.

Navigating Weather Minimums, Altitude, and Sensitive Locations

Weather significantly impacts drone operations. Part 107 outlines weather minimums you must follow, including visibility and cloud clearance. The maximum altitude under Part 107 is generally 400 feet above ground level (AGL), with some exceptions for flying near structures. You must also avoid flying over sensitive locations, such as stadiums or critical infrastructure, without proper authorization. Failing to observe these restrictions can result in penalties.

Operational Decision-Making and Waivers

Part 107 continues to adapt to the advancements in drone technology. While waivers were previously required for operations at night, over people, and over moving vehicles, recent updates have eased some of these restrictions under specific conditions. These changes reflect technological improvements and regulatory efforts to promote safe drone use. For more information on these evolving regulations, explore this resource: Discover more insights about commercial drone operations.

Understanding when a flight necessitates additional authorization, such as a waiver, remains crucial. Waivers allow operations outside the standard Part 107 rules, which expands possibilities but requires careful consideration.

By mastering these operational boundaries, you can confidently optimize your drone operations while remaining compliant with FAA Part 107 regulations. This knowledge promotes safe and productive flights, which builds a solid foundation for success in the drone industry.

Beyond Basics: Securing Waivers for Advanced Operations

Operating under FAA Part 107 often means pushing the boundaries of standard drone operations. This section explores how obtaining waivers and authorizations can unlock advanced operations, expanding your business capabilities and opening doors to new opportunities. It’s all about maximizing your potential while maintaining full compliance.

Understanding The Need For Waivers

Standard Part 107 regulations address many common operational scenarios. However, certain specialized tasks require permissions that go beyond these standard rules. These specialized situations necessitate obtaining a waiver from the FAA. This could include anything from flying at night, to operating beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), or flying over people. Think of it as a specialized permit for unique projects.

For example, imagine a real estate company wanting to capture dramatic twilight images of a property. This requires operating after sunset, which necessitates a night waiver under Part 107. Or consider a powerline inspection company needing to inspect hundreds of miles of lines efficiently. A BVLOS waiver would allow them to cover vast areas without needing multiple visual observers.

Crafting A Compelling Safety Case

Successfully obtaining a waiver relies on building a compelling safety case. The goal is to convincingly demonstrate to the FAA that your planned operation mitigates potential risks effectively, even when operating outside the established standard parameters. This includes thorough documentation of your operational procedures, detailed emergency plans, and specifics about the equipment you'll be using.

Understanding the current drone landscape adds weight to your application. As of April 1, 2025, over 1 million drones are registered with the FAA, including 420,825 commercial registrations. This demonstrates the significant and growing presence of commercial drone operations. About 46% of waiver requests are approved, with the majority (92%) being for night flights. This highlights both the importance of night operations and the feasibility of securing the necessary authorizations. Find more detailed statistics here.

Navigating LAANC and Building ATC Relationships

For operations in controlled airspace, using LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) can significantly streamline the authorization process. LAANC provides near real-time approvals for operations below specified altitudes, simplifying access to more complex airspace.

Cultivating a strong relationship with your local Air Traffic Control (ATC) facility is also invaluable, particularly for more complex or frequently recurring operations. Open communication fosters coordination and builds trust, facilitating smoother approvals for specialized drone work.

Determining The Right Authorizations

Choosing the right authorization hinges on your specific business needs. Carefully analyze your typical operations. Identify which limitations, if removed, would provide the greatest benefit to your business model and create the most opportunities. This strategic approach maximizes operational capabilities while ensuring ongoing compliance.

For instance, a company specializing in agricultural surveys might prioritize BVLOS waivers for efficiency over large areas. A film production company, on the other hand, might focus on securing night waivers to capture unique and visually stunning cinematic shots.

Streamlining The Waiver Process

The waiver process can seem complex. However, breaking it down into manageable steps significantly improves efficiency. This involves gathering all the required documentation upfront, meticulously completing the application, and anticipating potential questions from the FAA.

Approaching the waiver process with a well-defined plan transforms a potentially daunting task into an achievable objective, unlocking access to advanced drone operations and new levels of business success.

Transforming Your FAA Part 107 Drone License Into Income

Earning your FAA Part 107 drone license is a significant achievement. But what's next? The real reward lies in using your certification to generate income. Let's explore how to translate your newfound drone skills into profitable ventures.

Identifying Lucrative Drone Service Sectors

Numerous industries are actively seeking qualified drone pilots. Targeting in-demand sectors can significantly increase your earning potential. Here are a few of the most promising:

• Real Estate: Capture stunning aerial photos and videos to showcase properties, providing a unique and engaging perspective for potential buyers.

• Construction: Streamline progress monitoring, site surveys, and inspections with drones, offering efficient and cost-effective solutions.

• Agriculture: Utilize drones for crop monitoring, health assessments, and targeted spraying to improve farm management practices.

• Inspections: Conduct infrastructure inspections (cell towers, power lines, bridges) safely and efficiently, reducing risks and costs.

• Film and Photography: Add breathtaking aerial footage to films, documentaries, and commercial projects, creating dynamic and captivating visuals.

Pricing Your Services Competitively

Setting the right price for your services is crucial for business success. Researching market rates in your area provides a solid starting point. How to start a drone business can provide valuable insights.

Consider these factors when determining your pricing:

• Your Experience and Skill Level: Higher skill levels generally command higher rates.

• Job Complexity: More complex projects often require more time, resources, and expertise, justifying higher prices.

• Equipment Required: Specialized equipment can impact pricing.

• Travel Expenses: Factor in travel time and costs, especially for remote locations.

• Post-Processing Time: Include time spent editing and processing footage in your pricing calculations.

Striking a balance between competitive pricing and profitability is essential.

Developing Specialized Service Offerings

Offering specialized services differentiates you from the competition. For example, proficiency in thermal imaging opens doors to inspections for energy efficiency or leak detection. Similarly, mastering precision agriculture techniques makes you a valuable asset to modern farms.

Focusing on niche applications positions you as a specialist and attracts higher-paying clients.

Building a Strong Portfolio and Client Relationships

A strong portfolio showcasing your best work is your marketing cornerstone. Include high-quality images and videos demonstrating your skills and the value you deliver. Client testimonials build trust and credibility. Nurturing positive client relationships is essential for long-term success. Clear communication, timely delivery, and exceeding expectations lead to lasting partnerships and valuable referrals.

Growing Your Drone Operations Strategically

Starting small and scaling gradually is a wise approach. Investing in new equipment or specialized training unlocks further income opportunities. For example, a drone with LiDAR capabilities expands your service offerings to include high-precision mapping and surveying.

Here are some strategies to consider:

• Networking: Connect with industry professionals to expand your reach and build valuable relationships.

• Marketing: Promote your services effectively to reach your target audience.

• Online Presence: Establish a professional website and social media presence.

• Stay Updated: Keep up with industry trends and regulations to maintain a competitive edge.

Continuous growth and adaptation are vital for long-term success in the drone industry. Whether it's a full-time business or supplemental income, your FAA Part 107 license is a powerful tool. Apply these principles strategically to maximize your earning potential and build a rewarding drone career. Ready to elevate your drone operations? Dronedesk, a comprehensive drone operations management platform, provides tools for enhanced safety, increased productivity, and streamlined compliance. From client and fleet management to advanced airspace intelligence, Dronedesk simplifies your workflow. Learn more: https://dronedesk.io