How to Get Your Part 107 Drone License: Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your FAA Commercial Drone License
Earning your Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 107 certification might seem daunting, but we’re here to make it easier! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step needed to obtain your drone license, so you can start flying commercially within 2-3 weeks.
Do You Need to Get a Drone License?
In the United States, if you plan to use your drone for anything other than fun, you need the FAA’s Remote Pilot Certificate, also known as the Part 107 certificate. This is your ticket to commercial drone operations in the U.S. and its territories.
Do You Need to Know How to Fly a Drone?
Interestingly, no - The FAA only requires that you pass the knowledge exam. You are not required to demonstrate drone flight proficiency, but having practical flying experience is an added bonus and will probably increase your chances of getting certified!
How Long Does It Take to Get Your Part 107 Drone License?
You can be certified within 2-3 weeks with a temporary certificate and the official one will arrive by mail in 6-8 weeks. Here’s the step-by-step:
- Study for the FAA Exam: Most students spend about 15-20 hours over 2-3 weeks on online lessons and practice tests.
- Pass the FAA Exam: This 60-question multiple-choice exam needs a score of 70% or higher to pass.
- Get Your Part 107 Certification License: After passing the exam, complete a short online application. You’ll get a temporary certificate within a week and the official one by mail in 6-8 weeks.
What’s on the FAA Part 107 Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (small UAS) Exam?
The FAA exam covers a broad range of topics, including:
- FAA Drone Laws
- National Airspace System (NAS)
- Reading Sectional Charts
- Airport Operations
- Weather & Micrometeorology
- Night Flight Regulations
- sUAS Loading and Performance
- Emergency Procedures
- Crew Resource Management
- Radio Communications
- Effects of Drugs & Alcohol
- Aeronautical Decision-Making
How to Prepare for the Test
You have two options - you can save a few bucks and prepare for the exam on your own with any free resources you can find online, or you can purchase a Part 107 test prep course.
If you’re looking for a test prep course, our friends at UAV Coach have you covered! Drone Pilot Ground School's online test prep course, which most students complete within 2-3 weeks and have a 99% success rate.
They offer three tiers: self-study, guided study, and guided study with flight training, priced between $299 and $549. Plus, there’s a money-back guarantee if you don’t pass on your first try.
You can get a $100 discount on any prep course. Use code ‘SPEXI’ to save $100.
How to Find the Closest FAA Test Center?
You’ll need to take the test in person at an FAA-approved center. There are about 800 locations across the U.S. Find the closest one to you on the FAA website.
How Much Does It Cost?
The Part 107 test fee is $175, payable to the Computer Assisted Testing Service (CATS). If you purchase a prep course, the total cost generally stays under $500.
Getting your FAA Part 107 drone license is easier than you might think, and it opens up a world of opportunities as a drone pilot. This guide will help you navigate the certification process smoothly, ensuring you meet all the requirements and ace the FAA exam. Whether you’re eyeing a career in aerial photography, agriculture, or wanting to join the Spexi Network, your Part 107 certification is your ticket to becoming a professional drone pilot.
