Are you ready to take your drone piloting skills to the next level? The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires remote pilots to pass the Part 107 test to operate drones for commercial purposes. But where can you take the test? In this article, we’ll guide you through the process and provide you with a comprehensive list of testing centers across the United States.
Understanding the Part 107 Drone Test
Before we dive into the testing centers, let’s first understand what the Part 107 drone test is all about. The FAA introduced the Part 107 regulations in 2016 to ensure safe and responsible drone operations. The test is designed to evaluate a remote pilot’s knowledge of drone safety protocols, weather conditions, airspace classifications, and other crucial aspects of drone flying.
The Part 107 test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, and you’ll have 2 hours to complete it. To pass, you’ll need to score at least 70%. The test is administered by the FAA and is available at testing centers across the country.
Where Can I Take the Part 107 Drone Test?
Now that you’re familiar with the test, let’s explore where you can take it. The FAA has designated numerous testing centers across the United States, including:
FAA-Approved Knowledge Testing Centers
The FAA has authorized several knowledge testing centers to administer the Part 107 test. These centers are located in various states and offer a convenient way to take the test. Here are some of the approved testing centers:
- Cox Aviation
- Drone Pilot Ground School
- King Schools
- PSI/CAP
- Sporty’s Pilot Shop
You can visit the FAA’s website to find a comprehensive list of approved testing centers near you.
FAA-Designated Testing Centers
In addition to the approved knowledge testing centers, the FAA has designated specific testing centers at airports and other locations. These centers are operated by FAA-approved providers and offer a more extensive testing experience. Some of the FAA-designated testing centers include:
- Airport Testing Centers: Many airports have designated testing centers, such as the Miami International Airport, Chicago O’Hare International Airport, and Dallas Love Field.
- Community Colleges: Several community colleges offer testing centers, including the Broward Community College in Florida and the Pima Community College in Arizona.
- Flight Schools: Flight schools, like the Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology in Oklahoma, also provide testing centers.
CATS Testing Centers
CATS (Computer-Assisted Testing Service) is a popular testing platform that offers Part 107 testing at various locations across the country. With over 300 testing centers, CATS provides a convenient and accessible way to take the test. You can visit the CATS website to find a testing center near you.
PSI Testing Centers
PSI (Psychological Services, Inc.) is another prominent testing provider that offers Part 107 testing at over 200 locations across the United States. PSI testing centers can be found in various states, including California, New York, Texas, and Florida. You can visit the PSI website to locate a testing center near you.
Tips for Taking the Part 107 Drone Test
Now that you know where to take the test, here are some valuable tips to help you prepare and pass the Part 107 drone test:
Study Materials
The FAA provides a free study guide, known as the FAA Advisory Circular 107-2A, which covers all the topics you’ll need to know for the test. You can also purchase study materials from providers like King Schools, Drone Pilot Ground School, or Sporty’s Pilot Shop.
Practice Tests
Practice makes perfect! Take online practice tests to familiarize yourself with the test format and question types. This will help you identify areas where you need to focus your studying.
Understand the Weather
Weather knowledge is a critical aspect of the Part 107 test. Make sure you understand weather patterns, cloud types, and other weather-related topics.
Practice with Sample Questions
Practice with sample questions to get a feel for the test. You can find sample questions online or through study materials providers.
Conclusion
Taking the Part 107 drone test is a crucial step in becoming a certified remote pilot. With numerous testing centers across the United States, you’re sure to find a location near you. By understanding the test format, studying diligently, and practicing with sample questions, you’ll be well-prepared to pass the test and soar to new heights in the world of drone piloting.
Remember, it’s essential to choose a testing center that fits your needs and schedule. Be sure to check the testing center’s availability, pricing, and testing format before scheduling your test. With the right preparation and mindset, you’ll be ready to take the Part 107 drone test and unlock a world of possibilities in the drone industry.
What is the Part 107 Drone Test?
The Part 107 Drone Test is a examination administered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to certify remote pilots in command (RPC) for operating small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) in the National Airspace System. The test is designed to ensure that drone operators have the necessary knowledge and skills to fly safely and efficiently.
The test covers a wide range of topics, including regulations, airspace, weather, aircraft performance, and safety procedures. To pass the test, candidates must answer at least 42 out of 60 questions correctly, which translates to a score of at least 70%. Upon passing the test, candidates will be issued a Remote Pilot Certificate, which is valid for 24 months.
Who Needs to Take the Part 107 Drone Test?
Anyone who wants to operate a small unmanned aircraft system (sUAS) for commercial or business purposes, such as aerial photography, surveying, or delivery, needs to take the Part 107 Drone Test. This includes remote pilots in command (RPC) who fly drones for hire or compensation, as well as drone operators who fly for recreational purposes but may also fly for commercial purposes in the future.
Additionally, anyone who wants to fly a drone that weighs more than 0.55 pounds and is flown for recreational purposes in controlled airspace or near airports must also take the test. This is because the FAA requires recreational drone operators to pass the test to ensure they have the necessary knowledge and skills to fly safely in controlled airspace.
Where Can I Take the Part 107 Drone Test?
The Part 107 Drone Test can be taken at any one of the FAA-approved Knowledge Testing Centers located throughout the United States. These centers are usually located at FAA-approved Flight Schools, Community Colleges, or other educational institutions. Candidates can find a testing center near them by visiting the FAA’s website or by contacting their local Flight Standards District Office.
It’s important to note that candidates must register for the test in advance and schedule an appointment with the testing center. The test is administered on a computer and typically takes about 2 hours to complete. Candidates are allowed to bring a calculator and the FAA’s Advisory Circular 107-2A, but no other materials are permitted.
How Do I Prepare for the Part 107 Drone Test?
The best way to prepare for the Part 107 Drone Test is to study the FAA’s Advisory Circular 107-2A, which is the official study guide for the test. The circular covers all the topics that will be covered on the test, including regulations, airspace, weather, aircraft performance, and safety procedures. Candidates should read the circular carefully and take notes on areas they don’t understand.
In addition to studying the circular, candidates can also take online practice tests or attend a drone pilot training course. These resources can help candidates identify areas where they need to focus their studying and can provide practice questions to help them prepare for the actual test. Candidates should also review the FAA’s website for the latest information and guidance on drone regulations and safety procedures.
How Much Does the Part 107 Drone Test Cost?
The Part 107 Drone Test costs $150, which is paid to the testing center when the candidate takes the test. This fee is non-refundable, even if the candidate fails the test. Candidates who fail the test can retake it after 30 days, but they will need to pay the fee again.
It’s worth noting that some drone pilot training courses may include the cost of the test in their training package. In these cases, the candidate may not need to pay the fee separately. However, the candidate will still need to register for the test and schedule an appointment with the testing center.
How Long is the Part 107 Drone Test Valid For?
The Part 107 Drone Test is valid for 24 months, or two years, from the date the candidate passes the test. During this time, the candidate can operate a small unmanned aircraft system (sUAS) for commercial or business purposes, as long as they comply with all applicable regulations and safety procedures.
To maintain their certification, candidates must take a recurrent test every 24 months. The recurrent test is similar to the initial test, but it covers any changes to regulations or safety procedures that have occurred since the candidate last took the test. Candidates must pass the recurrent test to continue operating a sUAS for commercial or business purposes.
What Happens If I Fail the Part 107 Drone Test?
If a candidate fails the Part 107 Drone Test, they can retake the test after 30 days. The candidate will need to pay the test fee again and schedule another appointment with the testing center. There is no limit to the number of times a candidate can take the test, but they must wait at least 30 days between attempts.
Candidates who fail the test should review the topics they got wrong and focus their studying on those areas. They can also take additional practice tests or attend a drone pilot training course to help them prepare for the retake.