As the use of drones grows in industries such as photography, agriculture, and real estate, the need for certified drone pilots is increasing. The FAA 107 (Commercial Drone License) allows individuals to legally operate drones for commercial purposes in the United States. This certification is essential for anyone looking to use a drone for profit. In this guide, we’ll break down what the FAA 107 certification involves, how to obtain it, and how it can boost your career in a rapidly growing field.
Prepare for the FAA 107 - Commercial Drone License exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.
The FAA Part 107 is a set of regulations established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) governing the use of small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS), commonly known as drones. If you want to fly a drone for commercial purposes, such as filming or land surveying, you must comply with Part 107 rules. These regulations cover various aspects of drone operations, including:
Getting a commercial drone license involves meeting specific requirements and passing the FAA Part 107 test. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Meet the Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the FAA 107 certification, you must:
2. Study for the Part 107 Test
The Part 107 test covers several topics, including:
Many online courses and study guides are available to help prepare for the test. The FAA website also provides helpful resources to study before the exam.
3. Take the FAA 107 Knowledge Test
Once you feel prepared, you can schedule the test at an FAA-approved testing center. The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, and you’ll need to score at least 70% to pass. After passing the test, you’ll receive a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA.
4. Register Your Drone
If your drone weighs more than 0.55 lbs (250 grams), you must register it with the FAA. Registration can be done through the FAA Drone Zone website and costs $5 per drone.
5. Adhere to FAA Regulations
Once certified, you’ll need to follow all Part 107 rules during your operations, such as respecting airspace restrictions and filing for waivers if your flight requires exceptions (e.g., flying at night or over people).
Aspiring commercial pilots can prepare for airline selection with our free AVOP Airline Pilot Aptitude assessment practice — covering numerical reasoning, spatial awareness, multi-tasking, and aviation knowledge.
Private pilot candidates can prepare for the FAA written knowledge exam with our free FAA Private Pilot knowledge test practice — covering aerodynamics, weather, navigation, regulations, and aircraft systems.
The time it takes to obtain your commercial drone license can vary depending on how quickly you prepare for the test. Here’s a general timeline:
If you're wondering how to become a professional drone pilot, here are the steps to follow:
1. Earn Your Commercial Drone License
The first step is obtaining your FAA 107 certification. As previously discussed, this involves passing the Part 107 test and adhering to FAA regulations.
2. Gain Practical Experience
Having a drone license is just the beginning. To become a proficient drone pilot, you'll need hands-on experience. Practice different flight maneuvers, learn how to use your drone's camera and sensors, and become comfortable flying in various weather conditions.
3. Specialize in an Industry
Drone pilots can work in many industries, including real estate, agriculture, construction, film, and media. Choosing an industry to specialize in can help you hone your skills and market yourself as an expert in that field.
4. Build a Portfolio
If you plan to use your drone commercially, building a portfolio of your work is essential. Whether it's aerial footage, land surveying, or inspection services, showcasing your expertise can help you attract clients and grow your business.
Infrastructure inspection is one of the most common commercial applications for Part 107 drone operations, covering bridges, cell towers, power lines, pipelines, and building facades. The FAA 107 exam may test your understanding of how to plan these missions safely, including maintaining visual line of sight while flying near structures, obtaining any necessary airspace authorizations when inspecting infrastructure near airports, and managing obstacles like guy wires and power cables. Pilots conducting infrastructure inspection flights should pay particular attention to sectional chart symbols indicating towers, obstructions, and power transmission lines in the survey area, as these represent both the work target and the primary collision hazard.
For hobbyist drone pilots, the FAA does not require a commercial drone license. However, all drones weighing over 0.55 lbs must be registered with the FAA, even for recreational use. In addition to FAA registration, hobbyist pilots must adhere to Community-Based Organization (CBO) safety guidelines and fly within uncontrolled airspace unless granted permission.
For commercial drone pilots, the FAA 107 certification is required to operate drones for profit. In some cases, you may also need special permits, such as waivers, to fly in controlled airspace or under certain conditions.
The FAA 107 Commercial Drone License opens the door to numerous opportunities in industries that increasingly rely on drone technology. From aerial photography to surveying land and inspecting infrastructure, drones are transforming how work is done. Becoming a certified drone pilot not only ensures you're operating legally but also positions you to take advantage of the growing demand for skilled drone operators. By preparing for the FAA Part 107 test and gaining hands-on experience, you can launch a successful career as a professional drone pilot.