Flying drones has exploded in popularity, from hobbyists capturing breathtaking aerial footage to professionals using UAVs for mapping and inspections. However, to operate commercially, you need a drone pilot license. In the United States, this is the FAA Part 107 certification, officially known as the Remote Pilot Certificate. This guide walks you through the process step by step, ensuring you comply with regulations while exploring the exciting world of quadcopters, FPV flying, and advanced flight technology.
Obtaining your license involves eligibility checks, studying key topics like airspace rules and weather effects on GPS navigation, passing a knowledge test, and ongoing compliance. Whether you’re eyeing racing drones or gimbal cameras for cinematic shots, this certification unlocks professional opportunities in aerial filmmaking and remote sensing.
Who Needs a Drone Pilot License and Basic Eligibility
Not everyone requires a drone pilot license. Recreational flyers can operate under simplified rules like The Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Unmanned Aircraft (Part 107 doesn’t apply here). However, if you plan to use your drone for business—such as real estate photography with a DJI Mini 4 Pro, agricultural surveying, or delivering packages—you must get certified.
Age and Knowledge Requirements
To qualify for the FAA Remote Pilot Certificate:
- Be at least 16 years old.
- Read, write, speak, and understand English.
- Be physically and mentally capable of safe operation.
No prior flight experience is needed, but familiarity with stabilization systems, sensors, and obstacle avoidance tech helps. The FAA emphasizes understanding how these features interact with regulations, like maintaining visual line of sight (VLOS) even with AI Follow Mode.
Drone Weight Considerations
Your license applies to drones under 55 pounds (25 kg). Heavier UAVs require waivers. Most consumer models like micro drones fall under this, but always check Remote ID compliance—a broadcast module required since September 2023 for tracking drones in real-time.
Preparing for the FAA Part 107 Knowledge Test
The heart of certification is passing a 60-question multiple-choice exam. You have 2 hours, needing 70% (42 correct) to pass. Tests are proctored at PSI or CATS centers.
Key Study Topics
The Airman Knowledge Test covers:
- Regulations: FAA rules, airspace classes (A through G), temporary flight restrictions (TFRs), and no-fly zones near airports or landmarks.
- Airspace and Weather: Reading sectional charts, understanding METARs/TAFs, and effects on drone performance—like wind impacting navigation.
- Drone Operations: Preflight inspections, emergency procedures, and physiology (e.g., optical illusions at altitude).
- Airport Operations: Right-of-way rules near manned aircraft.
Dedicate 20-40 hours to prep. Focus on how thermal cameras or optical zoom lenses don’t exempt you from VLOS.
Recommended Study Resources
- FAA Resources: Free Part 107 Remote Pilot Study Guide (PDF) and sample questions.
- Online Courses: Platforms like Drone Pilot Ground School or UAV Coach offer video lessons (90%+ pass rates).
- Apps and Books: FAA DroneZone app for practice; “Remote Pilot Test Prep” book.
- Practice Exams: Take 5-10 full mocks. King Schools or Sporty’s apps simulate real tests.
Incorporate hands-on practice with FPV systems. Fly a simulator like DJI Flight Simulator to master autonomous flight modes safely.
Pro tip: Weather knowledge is 15-25% of the test. Learn density altitude’s impact on battery life for drone batteries.
Taking the Exam and Applying for Your Certificate
Scheduling and Test Day
- Create an Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) profile.
- Schedule via PSI (faa.psiexams.com) or CATS (catsfaa.com)—$175 fee.
- Arrive 30 minutes early with two IDs (e.g., driver’s license, passport).
- No personal calculators or notes; provided materials only.
The exam is computer-based, adaptive in sections. Passing grants a temporary certificate; permanent arrives in 6-8 weeks.
Post-Exam Steps
- FAA endorses your IACRA profile.
- Print your temporary certificate.
- Receive plastic card by mail.
If you fail, retake after 14 days (same fee). Most pass on the first try with solid prep.
Registering Your Drone and Additional Requirements
Your pilot certificate doesn’t cover the drone itself. Register small UAS (0.55-55 lbs) via FAA DroneZone—$5 for 3 years. Display the registration number on the exterior.
Ongoing Rules for Certified Pilots
- Fly below 400 feet AGL (unless waived).
- Yield to manned aircraft.
- No operations over people without waivers.
- Inspect pre-flight: props (propellers), batteries, controllers.
- Log flights if required for work.
For night ops, add anti-collision lights. Mapping missions need LAANC authorization via apps like AirMap.
Equip with drone accessories like cases and ND filters for 4K cameras.
Maintaining and Renewing Your Certification
Certificates expire every 24 months. Renew by:
- Online Training: Free FAA Wingman Wing quiz (ALC-677) or recurrent courses.
- Retesting: Full exam if expired over 24 months.
Track via IACRA. Stay current on updates like BVLOS rules or tech & innovation in drones.
Career Tips Post-Certification
- Join communities for cinematic shots techniques.
- Get insurance via Verifly or SkyWatch.
- Specialize: GoPro Hero Camera for action, thermal for inspections.
Success stories abound—certified pilots earn $50-150/hour in filmmaking or surveying.
Advanced Tips for Success
Master flight paths and creative techniques. Practice with apps like Litchi for waypoints.
Common pitfalls: Ignoring TFRs or overloading batteries. Always check NOTAMs.
With dedication, your license opens doors to professional drone mastery. Safe flying!