The drone industry is booming, and with the increasing demand for drone services, obtaining a 107 drone license has become a crucial step for drone enthusiasts and professionals alike. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) introduced the Part 107 rule in 2016, which regulates the commercial use of small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS). In this article, we will guide you through the process of obtaining a 107 drone license, covering the eligibility criteria, study materials, and the application process.
Who Needs a 107 Drone License?
Before we dive into the process, it’s essential to understand who needs a 107 drone license. The FAA requires that any individual operating a drone for commercial purposes must hold a remote pilot certificate. This includes:
- Real estate agents using drones for property photography
- Construction companies using drones for site surveys and inspections
- Filmmakers and photographers using drones for aerial footage
- Drone pilots working for companies that provide drone services
- Any individual using a drone for commercial purposes
If you plan to use your drone for recreational purposes only, you do not need a 107 drone license. However, you must still register your drone with the FAA and follow all safety guidelines.
Eligibility Criteria for a 107 Drone License
To be eligible for a 107 drone license, you must:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English
- Be physically and mentally fit to operate a drone safely
- Pass a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check
- Pass an FAA knowledge test
Study Materials and Resources
To prepare for the FAA knowledge test, you’ll need to study the following topics:
- Applicable regulations and safety procedures
- Aeronautical knowledge, including weather patterns, airspace, and aircraft performance
- Drone-specific knowledge, including operation and safety procedures
The FAA provides a free study guide, the “Study Guide for Remote Pilot Certificate with Small UAS Rating” (FAA-G-8082-20), which covers all the necessary topics. Additionally, you can use online resources, such as:
- Drone Pilot Ground School: A comprehensive online course that covers all the topics you need to know for the FAA knowledge test.
- UAV Coach: A online community and resource center for drone pilots, offering study materials, practice tests, and training programs.
Preparing for the FAA Knowledge Test
The FAA knowledge test is a 60-question, multiple-choice exam that covers the topics mentioned earlier. To prepare, you should:
- Study the FAA study guide and online resources regularly
- Practice with sample questions and practice tests to gauge your knowledge
- Focus on your weak areas and review the topics you struggle with the most
Test Centers and Scheduling
The FAA knowledge test is administered by FAA-approved testing centers, known as Knowledge Testing Centers (KTCs). You can find a testing center near you on the FAA’s website. To schedule a test, you’ll need to create an account on the FAA’s Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) website.
Test Format and Content
The FAA knowledge test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, which you’ll have 2 hours to complete. The test is divided into three sections:
- Section A: Regulations (24 questions)
- Section B: Weather (12 questions)
- Section C: Aircraft Performance and Operations (24 questions)
Passing the Test
To pass the test, you’ll need to score at least 70%. If you fail, you can retake the test after 30 days. However, you’ll need to wait 30 days before re-taking the test, and you’ll need to pay the test fee again.
Applying for a 107 Drone License
Once you’ve passed the FAA knowledge test, you’ll need to apply for a remote pilot certificate on the IACRA website. You’ll need to:
- Create an account on the IACRA website
- Fill out the application form and upload the required documents, including:
- Proof of identity (government-issued ID, passport, etc.)
- Proof of address (utility bill, lease agreement, etc.)
- TSA background check information
- Pay the application fee ($136)
- Wait for the FAA to process your application and issue your remote pilot certificate
Background Check
As part of the application process, you’ll need to undergo a TSA background check. This involves providing your fingerprints and undergoing a background check through the TSA’s Universal Enrollment Services (UES) website.
Certificate Issuance
Once the FAA has processed your application and background check, they’ll issue your remote pilot certificate. You can expect to receive your certificate within 2-3 weeks after submitting your application.
Rental and Insurance Requirements
As a licensed drone pilot, you’ll need to comply with rental and insurance requirements. The FAA requires that you:
- Obtain liability insurance for your drone operations
- Comply with rental requirements, including providing proof of ownership or rental agreements
Insurance Requirements
The FAA recommends that drone pilots obtain liability insurance to cover damages and injuries caused by their drone operations. You can purchase insurance from a variety of providers, including:
- Drone insurance companies, such as Verifly and UAV Coach
- Traditional insurance companies, such as State Farm and Allstate
Rental Requirements
If you plan to rent a drone for commercial purposes, you’ll need to provide proof of ownership or a rental agreement. This includes:
- Proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale or registration documentation
- Rental agreement, including the terms and conditions of the rental
Maintenance and Renewal Requirements
As a licensed drone pilot, you’ll need to comply with maintenance and renewal requirements. The FAA requires that you:
- Complete a recurrent training every 24 months
- Renew your remote pilot certificate every 24 months
Recurrent Training
Recurrent training is required every 24 months to ensure that you stay up-to-date with the latest regulations and safety procedures. You can complete recurrent training through an FAA-approved provider, such as Drone Pilot Ground School or UAV Coach.
Renewal Process
To renew your remote pilot certificate, you’ll need to:
- Complete the recurrent training
- Submit a renewal application through the IACRA website
- Pay the renewal fee ($136)
In conclusion, obtaining a 107 drone license requires a thorough understanding of the regulations, safety procedures, and knowledge of drone operations. By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a licensed drone pilot. Remember to stay up-to-date with the latest regulations and safety procedures to ensure safe and successful drone operations.
What is a 107 drone license, and who needs one?
A 107 drone license, also known as a Part 107 certification, is a federal license required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for commercial drone pilots in the United States. This license is necessary to operate a drone for business purposes, such as aerial photography, construction, or surveying.
The FAA requires drone pilots to obtain a 107 license to ensure that they understand the regulations and safety protocols necessary to operate a drone safely and efficiently. This includes knowledge of airspace restrictions, weather patterns, and emergency procedures. Without a 107 license, drone pilots may face fines, penalties, or even legal action if they operate a drone for commercial purposes without proper certification.