Are you one of those who plan to fly a drone commercially? Then, getting a Part 107 License isn’t optional, it’s a requirement. Pass the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to unlock new career opportunities, enhance their credibility, and nurture their knowledge on safe drone operations.
In this article, read more about what this license is all about and how you can prepare and obtain to become a Part 107 certified. Follow us through this guide and learn about every step involved in obtaining a drone license, as well as the prospects it can help you achieve once you have it.
What Is a Part 107 License?
The Part 107 License, formally known as the Remote Pilot Certificate, is the FAA Drone Certification required for operating drones commercially in U.S. airspace. It is governed by Part 107 of the FAA’s Small Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) rule.
If you are getting paid to fly, whether you are inspecting roofs or shooting real estate videos, this certificate is required by law. It sets the standard for drone flight rules and operations under federal FAA Regulations.
Introduced in 2016, this rule ensures commercial drone use is conducted safely and professionally.
Who Needs a Drone License 107?
You must have a drone license 107 if you are flying for any reason other than recreational purposes. That includes:
- Real estate aerial photography
- Infrastructure, roof and renewable inspections
- Surveying and photogrammetry
- Construction site monitoring
- Search and rescue mission
- Crop analysis and agricultural mapping
- Content creation for monetized social media
- Drone journalism
Even hobbyists making money from YouTube drone content must be Part 107 certified. Remember, without the license, you could face fines or legal action.
Understanding the FAA Drone Certification Framework
The Part 107 License operates within the FAA Drone Certification framework, which governs the use of drones in the National Airspace System (NAS). Part 107 is part of a broader effort by the FAA to integrate Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) safely into national airspace.
Part 107 vs. Hobby Flying (Recreational Use)
Understanding the difference between commercial and recreational drone flying is crucial:
Feature | Recreational Drone Use | Commercial Drone Use (Part 107) |
Purpose | Personal enjoyment | Earning money or providing services |
Certification Required | No | Yes — Part 107 License |
FAA Test Required | No | Yes — FAA Drone Exam |
Flight Restrictions | Basic safety rules | Strict drone flight rules under the FAA |
Registration | Required for drones >0.55 lbs | Required for all commercial drones |
Even if you occasionally make money from drone footage, you are expected to be Part 107 certified.
Why Become Part 107 Certified?
Becoming Part 107 certified gives you much more than just legal clearance:
- Legal status to operate commercially
- Access to drone insurance and government contracts
- Authority to fly in controlled airspace with waivers
- Better knowledge of drone safety guidelines
- Competitive advantage in the drone services market
Holding this certificate also builds trust with clients, employers, and regulators.
Key Points Before and After the FAA Drone Exam
Here is a step-by-step procedure on what to remember from preparation to the actual exam, and even after receiving the Part 107 drone license.
Part 107 Drone License Requirements and Eligibility
To apply, you must meet these FAA Part 107 eligibility conditions:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Be able to read, write, and speak English,
- Be physically and mentally fit to fly,
- Pass the FAA Drone Exam
Preparing for the FAA Drone Exam
The test includes 60 multiple-choice questions. You will need strong knowledge in the following topics:
Topics Covered:
- FAA Regulations and Airspace Classifications – Covers rules for safe operation and how various airspace types affect drones.
- Drone Flight Rules and Operational Procedures – Covers line-of-sight requirements, maximum altitude, and preflight checks.
- Weather Effects and Sources – Covers the impact of weather on drone performance and how to interpret aviation weather resources.
- Emergency Procedures – Covers what to do in the event of system failure, a lost link, or other in-flight issues.
- Radio Communication – Covers how drone pilots should interact when using air traffic control (ATC)-approved waivers.
- Aeronautical Decision-Making (ADM): Covers risk management and judgment skills for safe flying.
- Crew Resource Management (CRM): Covers effective communication and coordination among team members.
- Physiological Factors: Covers the effects of alcohol, fatigue, and stress on pilot performance.
Some sources also include loading and performance, maintenance, and night operations if you are seeking waivers.
How to Prepare for the FAA Drone Exam
Part 107 Exam Prep can be done in three ways:
1. Self-Study
- Use the FAA’s Drone Pilot Certification Guide.
- Take practice tests and quizzes.
- Watch YouTube tutorials.
- Create flashcards for tough topics.
2. Online Courses
- Access or avail excellent online drone courses from the likes of Pilot Institute, UAV Coach, and DroneU.
- It usually includes videos, quizzes, and practice exams.
- It is ideal for flexible learners.
3. In-Person Classes
- Some aviation schools and colleges offer in-person instruction.
- Ideal if you learn better through hands-on experience.
Scheduling the FAA Drone Exam
When you are ready, schedule your test at an FAA-approved Knowledge Testing Center.
Exam Details:
- Test Name: Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG)
- Questions: 60
- Format: Multiple-choice
- Duration: 2 hours Passing
- Score: 70%
- Fee: ~$175
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID. After passing, apply for your Remote Pilot Certificate through the FAA’s Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) system.
After You Pass the Test
Once you pass, a few final steps are needed:
TSA Security Vetting
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will perform a background check. It usually takes about 7–10 business days.
FAA Drone Registration
Every drone you fly commercially must be registered via the FAA drone registration system. They will send you a unique registration number to affix to your drone.
License Renewal
Your Part 107 Drone License remains valid for 24 months. After that, complete free online recurrent training through the FAA to maintain certification.
Operating Legally with a Part 107 Drone License
With your Part 107 drone license, follow these Drone Flight Rules to remain compliant:
- Keep visual line-of-sight.
- No flights over people (unless waived).
- Fly only during daylight or civil twilight.
- Stay under 400 feet.
- Avoid restricted or controlled airspace unless approved.
- Yield to crewed aircraft at all times.
For special scenarios, like night flying or operating in Class B airspace, apply for waivers through the FAA DroneZone portal.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
New drone pilots often make avoidable errors. Here are the top pitfalls:
- Flying commercially without certification
- Failing to register your drone
- Forgetting to renew your license
- Ignoring airspace restrictions
- Skipping preflight checks and safety protocols
Your Drone License 107 grants you privileges, but also comes with responsibilities.
Part 107 Waivers: Fly Beyond the Rules
The FAA allows waivers for some restrictions under Part 107. With a waiver, certified pilots can:
- Fly at night
- Operate over people
- Piloting drones beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS)
- Operate from a moving vehicle
- Fly multiple drones simultaneously
How to Apply for a Waiver
- Visit the FAA’s DroneZone portal.
- Submit a detailed safety case.
- Wait for FAA review (can take 90+ days).
- Receive approval or request for more info.
These waivers are key to expanding your commercial capabilities with a Part 107 drone.
How to Make Money with Your Part 107 License
Once you are Part 107 certified, the sky is the limit for income opportunities. Examples include:
- Real Estate Aerial Photography: You can now provide marketing content for listings.
- Inspections: You can assist clients in examining roofs, towers, and infrastructure.
- Weddings and Events: It allows you to offer dramatic footage and perspectives.
- Surveying and Mapping: You can use drones for 3D models or photogrammetry
- Agriculture: You can also perform crop health analysis using drone sensors
- Media and Journalism: Capture breaking news and aerial B-roll with your drone ops.
- Freelance Content Creation: Also, you can now monetize your drone content through YouTube, TikTok, or stock footage platforms.
All of these operations require a sufficient level of knowledge and expertise. Still, having a drone license 107 puts you one step closer to providing these services.
Building a Drone Business with Your License
Once you are a certified drone operator, you cannot only offer various drone services but also create a thriving drone business. Here is a quick tip for you:
Step 1: Identify a Niche
- Real estate
- Construction and surveying
- Agriculture
- Search and rescue
- Insurance inspections
- Media production
Step 2: Get the Right Equipment
Commercial-grade drones vary in price and purpose. Consider drones with:
- 4K cameras
- Obstacle avoidance
- RTK GPS for mapping
- Weather resistance
Step 3: Get Insurance
Protect yourself and your clients in the event of emergencies with liability insurance. Most commercial jobs require it.
Step 4: Promote Your Services
You can either create a portfolio, use local SEO, or join drone pilot directories where you can highlight your drone business with your Part 107 certification.
Step 5: Stay Current
Stay updated with drone safety guidelines, FAA regulations, and local laws. And every 24 months, renew your drone license.
Conclusion
Getting a Part 107 Drone License is not just about passing the test. It is about achieving the full potential of being a professional drone pilot.
Ready to become Part 107 certified? Visit ZenaTech to explore expert drone certification tips, training resources, and the tools to help you succeed as a commercial drone pilot. Whether you’re just starting or looking to scale your drone business, we’re here to support you every step of the way.