As the drone industry continues to soar, the demand for certified drone pilots has never been higher. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a commercial operator, obtaining a Part 107 drone license is essential for safe and legal drone operations in the United States. In this extensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of getting a Part 107 drone license, covering the eligibility requirements, study materials, and testing process.
What is a Part 107 Drone License?
The Part 107 drone license, also known as the Remote Pilot Certificate, is a federal license issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that allows individuals to fly drones commercially. This license is a requirement for any drone operation that falls under the Part 107 regulations, which include:
- Flights for compensation or hire
- Flights with a drone weighing over 0.55 lbs.
- Flights beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS)
- Flights over people or moving vehicles
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a Part 107 drone license, you must:
Age Requirement
Be at least 16 years old
Citizenship Requirement
Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English
Background Check
Not have any physical or mental condition that would interfere with the safe operation of a drone
Study Materials and Resources
To prepare for the Part 107 exam, you’ll need to study a vast range of topics, including:
Aeronautical Knowledge
- Aircraft performance and weather
- Navigation and communication systems
- Air traffic control procedures
- Aviation weather and NOTAMs
Drone Operations
- Drone performance and limitations
- Drone safety and emergency procedures
- Drone maintenance and inspections
- Drone registration and certification
Regulations and Policies
- Part 107 regulations and waivers
- Airspace classification and restrictions
- Right-of-way rules and altitude limitations
- Drone privacy and surveillance laws
There are various study materials and resources available to help you prepare for the exam, including:
| Study Material | Description |
|---|---|
| FAA Study Guide | Free online guide provided by the FAA |
| Drone Pilot Ground School | Comprehensive online course and study materials |
| UAV Coach | Online course and study materials with practice exams |
| DroneZon | Interactive online course and study materials |
Applying for the Part 107 Exam
Once you’ve studied and feel prepared, it’s time to apply for the Part 107 exam. Here’s how:
Creating an IACRA Account
Go to the FAA’s IACRA website and create an account. IACRA (Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application) is the FAA’s online portal for airman certification.
Filing an Application
Log in to your IACRA account and file an application for the Remote Pilot Certificate. You’ll need to provide personal and contact information, as well as answer questions about your drone operations experience.
Scheduling an Exam
Once your application is approved, you’ll be able to schedule an exam appointment at a FAA-approved testing center.
Taking the Part 107 Exam
The Part 107 exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, and you’ll have 2 hours to complete it. The exam covers all the topics mentioned earlier, and you’ll need to score at least 70% to pass.
What to Expect on Exam Day
On exam day, make sure to:
- Bring a valid government-issued ID
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled exam time
- Be prepared to answer questions on a wide range of topics
Maintaining Your Part 107 License
Congratulations! You’ve passed the exam and obtained your Part 107 drone license. However, this is just the beginning. To maintain your license, you’ll need to:
Complete a Recurrent Training Course
Every 24 months, you’ll need to complete a recurrent training course to stay up-to-date with the latest regulations and best practices.
Follow FAA Guidelines and Regulations
Continuously follow FAA guidelines and regulations, including any updates or changes to Part 107.
Report Accidents and Incidents
Report any accidents or incidents involving your drone to the FAA within 10 days of the incident.
By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well on your way to obtaining a Part 107 drone license and staying compliant with FAA regulations. Remember to stay focused, stay prepared, and always prioritize safety. Good luck on your drone piloting journey!
What is a Part 107 Drone License?
A Part 107 drone license is a remote pilot certification issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that allows individuals to operate drones for commercial purposes. This certification is required for anyone who wants to fly a drone for business, including real estate agents, filmmakers, and construction companies. The license ensures that drone operators understand the regulations and safety protocols necessary to operate a drone safely and efficiently.
The Part 107 license is a comprehensive certification that covers topics such as airspace classification, weather patterns, and safety procedures. To obtain a Part 107 license, individuals must pass a written exam administered by the FAA, which tests their knowledge of these topics. The license is valid for two years, after which time the operator must take a recurrent exam to maintain their certification.
Who Needs a Part 107 Drone License?
Anyone who wants to operate a drone for commercial purposes needs a Part 107 drone license. This includes individuals who are looking to start a drone business, as well as companies that want to use drones as part of their operations. Additionally, any individual who is paid to fly a drone, even if it’s just a one-time event, must possess a Part 107 license. This includes freelance drone operators, photographers, and videographers who are paid to capture aerial footage.
It’s important to note that recreational drone operators do not need a Part 107 license. However, recreational operators must still follow all applicable FAA regulations and guidelines. If you’re unsure whether you need a Part 107 license, it’s best to consult with the FAA or a qualified drone expert.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements for a Part 107 Drone License?
To be eligible for a Part 107 drone license, you must be at least 16 years old and be able to read, speak, write, and understand English. You must also be in a physical and mental condition to safely operate a drone. Additionally, you cannot have any physical or mental conditions that would interfere with your ability to operate a drone safely.
You do not need to have any prior experience flying drones or aircraft to be eligible for a Part 107 license. The FAA provides all the necessary training and resources to help you prepare for the written exam. Once you’ve met the eligibility requirements, you can schedule an appointment to take the written exam at an FAA-approved testing center.
How Do I Prepare for the Part 107 Drone License Exam?
To prepare for the Part 107 drone license exam, you can start by studying the FAA’s remote pilot certification study guide. This guide covers all the topics that will be tested on the exam, including airspace classification, weather patterns, and safety procedures. You can also take online courses or attend drone training seminars to help you prepare.
In addition to studying, it’s a good idea to practice with sample questions and take practice exams to get a sense of the exam format and the types of questions that will be asked. You can find sample questions and practice exams online or through drone training courses. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel on exam day.
What Is the Cost of Obtaining a Part 107 Drone License?
The cost of obtaining a Part 107 drone license varies depending on the training course or study materials you choose. On average, the cost of a drone training course can range from $200 to $1,000 or more. This cost typically includes access to online course materials, practice exams, and a study guide.
The cost of the written exam itself is $150, which is paid directly to the FAA. This fee is non-refundable, so it’s important to make sure you’re well-prepared before taking the exam. In addition to the exam fee, you may also need to pay for study materials, such as a study guide or online course.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Part 107 Drone License?
The amount of time it takes to get a Part 107 drone license varies depending on how quickly you can prepare for the written exam. On average, it can take several weeks to a few months to prepare for the exam, depending on how much time you can dedicate to studying.
Once you’ve prepared for the exam, you can schedule an appointment to take the written exam at an FAA-approved testing center. The exam itself typically takes about two hours to complete. After you’ve passed the exam, you’ll need to complete a background check through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which can take several weeks to complete.
What Are the Benefits of Having a Part 107 Drone License?
Having a Part 107 drone license can open up a wide range of opportunities for drone operators. With a license, you can operate a drone for commercial purposes, including aerial photography and videography, real estate, construction, and more. You can also increase your earning potential and build a successful drone business.
In addition to the financial benefits, having a Part 107 license also demonstrates your commitment to safety and professionalism. It shows that you’re knowledgeable about drone regulations and safety protocols, which can give clients and customers confidence in your abilities. With a Part 107 license, you can build a successful and sustainable drone business that sets you apart from the competition.