If you want to fly drones commercially in the United States—whether for photography, inspections, real estate, or any business purpose—you must obtain an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about getting certified and maintaining your credentials.
What is FAA Part 107?
Part 107 is the set of regulations governing commercial unmanned aircraft operations in the United States. Implemented by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on August 29, 2016, these rules establish the legal framework for flying drones for business purposes.
Part 107 replaced the previous Section 333 exemption process, making it significantly easier for commercial drone operators to conduct legal operations. The certification demonstrates that you understand:
- Aviation regulations and airspace classification
- Weather patterns and their impact on flight operations
- Drone performance characteristics and limitations
- Emergency procedures and risk management
- Physiological factors affecting pilot performance
- Aeronautical decision-making processes
Who Needs Part 107 Certification?
You need a Part 107 certificate if you're flying a drone for ANY commercial purpose, including:
Requires Part 107
- ✓ Real estate photography/videography
- ✓ Construction site inspections
- ✓ Infrastructure inspections
- ✓ Wedding and event photography
- ✓ Agricultural surveying
- ✓ Search and rescue operations
- ✓ News gathering and journalism
- ✓ YouTube videos if monetized
Recreational (No Cert Needed)
- ○ Personal hobby flying
- ○ Family photos/videos (not sold)
- ○ Recreational racing
- ○ Personal YouTube (not monetized)
- ○ Flying for fun only
- Note: Recreational flying still requires following safety guidelines and registering your drone
Important Clarification
If you take a photo with your drone and later decide to sell it or use it for business, that photo was taken commercially and required Part 107 certification at the time of capture. "I'll get my license later" doesn't work—the rules apply at the moment of flight.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, you must:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Read, speak, write, and understand English (English language waivers available for medical emergencies)
- Be in physical and mental condition to safely fly a drone
- Pass the aeronautical knowledge test at an FAA-approved testing center
Note: You do NOT need a manned aircraft pilot's license to get Part 107 certification. The requirements are completely separate from traditional pilot licensing.
The Certification Process: Step-by-Step
Register with the FAA
Create an account in the FAA's Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) system at iacra.faa.gov
- Provide personal information and identification
- Receive your FAA Tracking Number (FTN)
- Time required: 15-20 minutes
Study for the Knowledge Test
The Part 107 exam covers a wide range of aviation topics. Most people spend 10-20 hours studying, depending on their aviation background.
Study Resources:
- FAA's free study guide: "Remote Pilot - Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Study Guide"
- Online courses: Pilot Institute, UAV Coach, Drone Pilot Ground School ($150-$300)
- YouTube tutorials and practice tests
- Mobile apps with practice questions
Schedule and Take the Exam
Once you're confident in your knowledge, schedule your exam at an FAA-approved Knowledge Testing Center (usually PSI or CATS testing centers).
- Cost: $175 (as of 2024)
- Questions: 60 multiple-choice questions
- Time Limit: 2 hours
- Passing Score: 70% or higher (42+ correct answers)
- Materials Allowed: Non-programmable calculator; FAA provides charts and references
Complete FAA Form 8710-13
After passing the exam, complete your application in the IACRA system within 90 days of your test date.
- Submit electronically through IACRA
- No in-person visit to FAA office required
- Processing time: 1-2 weeks typically
Receive Your Certificate
The FAA will review your application and issue your Remote Pilot Certificate.
- Temporary certificate available immediately online
- Permanent certificate mailed within 2-4 weeks
- Digital certificate available in FAADroneZone
- Valid for 24 months from issuance