Drones have revolutionized various industries, from real estate and agriculture to filmmaking and public safety. As the demand for drone pilots grows, obtaining your FAA Part 107 Certification has never been more valuable. Whether you are looking to start a new career or expand your skill set, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about becoming a certified commercial drone pilot: eligibility, cost, the IACRA and TSA steps, timeline and renewal.
Drone Universities is here to support you every step of the way. Our FAA Certified Flight Instructors deliver in-person training designed to help you prepare for the FAA Part 107 exam with confidence.
Request in-person Part 107 training. Our FAA Certified Flight Instructors travel to you in all 50 states, 7 days a week. Call 1.818.255.0406 or request training online.
Short answer: To get an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, you must be at least 16 and able to read, speak, write and understand English. Get an FAA Tracking Number in IACRA, pass the Unmanned Aircraft General – Small knowledge test at a testing center (about $175), then apply on FAA Form 8710-13 and clear a TSA security check.
Key terms
- Remote Pilot Certificate
- The FAA certificate required to fly a small drone for work or business under Part 107.
- UAG knowledge test
- Unmanned Aircraft General – Small, the FAA knowledge test taken at a knowledge testing center: 60 questions, 2 hours, passing score 70%.
- IACRA and FTN
- The FAA online application system; it issues the FAA Tracking Number (FTN) you need before scheduling the knowledge test.
- Recurrent training
- The free FAA online course (ALC-677) that keeps a remote pilot current every 24 calendar months.
Last updated: October 24, 2026 · Reviewed by Drone Universities training staff
Part 107 at a Glance
- Who needs it: anyone flying a drone for work or business under the FAA Small UAS Rule (14 CFR Part 107).
- Eligibility: at least 16 years old; able to read, speak, write and understand English; in a physical and mental condition to fly a drone safely.
- The test: pass the initial aeronautical knowledge test, Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG), in person at an FAA knowledge testing center. You need an FAA Tracking Number (FTN) from IACRA before you schedule.
- Cost: according to the FAA, knowledge testing centers charge approximately $175 for the test.
- After you pass: complete FAA Form 8710-13 in IACRA. A TSA security background check is completed before your certificate is issued.
- Staying current: complete the free FAA online recurrent training (ALC-677) every 24 calendar months.
Prefer to prepare with an instructor? Drone Universities offers in-person Part 107 test preparation at your home, office or job site.
Sources: FAA, Become a Certificated Remote Pilot, and FAA, How much does it cost to get a remote pilot certificate? (checked October 22, 2026).
What is FAA Part 107 Certification?
FAA Part 107 Certification, also known as a Remote Pilot Certificate, is a certificate issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that allows you to operate drones commercially in the United States. It shows that a pilot understands the rules governing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and can operate safely within the National Airspace System. Commercial operations without the proper certification can result in significant civil penalties.
Why Get a Drone Pilot License?
Unlock Commercial Opportunities
With a Part 107 certificate, you can legally offer drone services for commercial purposes, including:
- Aerial photography and videography
- Real estate marketing
- Agricultural monitoring
- Construction site surveys
- Inspection services
Stay Compliant
Operating without the proper certification can result in fines and legal issues. The Part 107 certificate ensures you are compliant with FAA regulations.
Enhance Your Skills
The certification process covers airspace rules, weather, emergency procedures and more, making you a safer and more proficient pilot.
What Is the Difference Between Recreational and Commercial Drone Use?
Recreational Use
- No Part 107 certificate required: Flying purely for fun does not require a Part 107 certificate.
- TRUST certificate: You must pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and carry proof when flying.
- FAA registration: Drones weighing more than 0.55 lbs (250 grams) must be registered.
- Flight restrictions: Follow the safety guidelines of an FAA-recognized community-based organization and fly within visual line of sight.
Commercial Use
- Part 107 certificate required: Mandatory for any commercial operation.
- FAA registration: All drones used commercially must be registered.
- Operational limitations: Pilots must follow the Part 107 operating rules unless a waiver is obtained.
What Are the Requirements for FAA Part 107 Certification?
To be eligible for the Part 107 certificate, you must:
- Be at least 16 years old.
- Be able to read, write, speak and understand English.
- Be in physical and mental condition to safely operate a drone.
- Pass the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Test.
- Clear the TSA security background check.
How Do You Get a Part 107 Certificate, Step by Step?
Step 1: Study for the Aeronautical Knowledge Test
Enroll in a reputable training program such as Drone Universities, or study the FAA Remote Pilot Study Guide.
Step 2: Obtain an FAA Tracking Number (FTN)
Create a free account on the Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) website to get your FTN.
Step 3: Schedule Your Test
Register with an FAA-approved Knowledge Testing Center. The test fee is currently $175.
Step 4: Pass the Test
Score at least 70% on the 60-question multiple-choice exam. You have 2 hours to complete it.
Step 5: Complete FAA Form 8710-13
Apply for your certificate through IACRA using your knowledge test results. There is no fee to apply through IACRA.
Step 6: Pass the TSA Security Background Check
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) conducts a security background check on all new Part 107 applicants after the application is submitted. This typically takes a few weeks.
Step 7: Receive Your Temporary Certificate
Once the TSA check is complete, you can print a temporary certificate from IACRA, valid for 120 days.
Step 8: Get Your Permanent Certificate
The FAA mails your permanent Remote Pilot Certificate, typically within 6 to 8 weeks.
Key Steps Summary
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Check eligibility | Be 16 or older, understand English, and be in good health |
| Study for the exam | Use a training course or the FAA study guide to prepare |
| Get an FTN | Create a free IACRA account |
| Schedule the exam | Book at an FAA-approved testing center ($175) |
| Pass the exam | Answer 60 questions and score at least 70% |
| Complete Form 8710-13 | Submit through IACRA online, free of charge |
| TSA background check | Security vetting of new applicants |
| Receive certificate | Temporary certificate from IACRA, permanent card by mail |
How Much Does Part 107 Certification Cost?
- Knowledge test fee: $175, paid to the testing center.
- IACRA application: Free.
- Recurrent training: Free online through the FAA.
- Training course: Optional. Request training for current pricing.
Fees are set by the FAA and its testing provider and can change, so confirm the current amount on faa.gov when you schedule.
How Long Does the Process Take?
- Study time: 2 to 8 weeks, depending on prior aviation knowledge.
- Test scheduling: 1 to 2 weeks.
- TSA background check: about 2 to 4 weeks.
- Certificate processing: 1 to 2 weeks for the temporary certificate.
- Total: roughly 6 to 16 weeks from start to finish.
How Should You Prepare for the Part 107 Knowledge Test?
The test covers topics including:
- Regulations: Part 107 rules, privileges and limitations.
- Airspace classification: Types of airspace and operating requirements.
- Weather effects: How weather impacts drone performance.
- Loading and performance: Weight and balance calculations.
- Emergency procedures: How to handle unexpected situations.
- Crew resource management: Team communication and decision-making.
- Radio communication procedures: Proper communication protocols.
- Night operations: Required knowledge for flying at night.
Drone Universities offers courses that cover all of these topics in depth.
Tips for Passing the Part 107 Exam on Your First Try
- Understand weather patterns: Weather questions make up a significant portion of the test.
- Master sectional charts: Learn how to read a sectional chart and interpret aeronautical charts.
- Study airspace classifications: Know each type of airspace and its requirements.
- Practice weight and balance calculations: Understand how payload affects performance.
- Review emergency procedures: Know what to do when things go wrong.
- Take multiple practice tests: Get familiar with question formats and time management.
- Focus on weak areas: Identify and close your knowledge gaps.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rushing through study materials: Understand concepts rather than memorizing answers.
- Ignoring practical applications: The test includes scenario-based questions.
- Skipping weather study: Weather is heavily tested and crucial for safe operations.
- Not practicing chart reading: Sectional chart questions can be tricky without practice.
- Delaying the application: Start early to allow time for the TSA background check.
Should You Take Professional Training or Self-Study for Part 107?
Self-Study
- Flexible and low cost, using the free FAA study guide.
- No hands-on flight experience with an instructor.
- Limited guidance on real-world operations.
Professional Training with Drone Universities
- Instruction from FAA Certified Flight Instructors.
- Hands-on flight training with real drones, not just theory.
- Training at your location, 7 days a week, in all 50 states.
- Curriculum adapted to your industry, from basic Part 107 preparation to advanced specializations.
- Custom corporate and agency programs.
How Drone Universities Can Help You Succeed
At Drone Universities, we provide personalized training that fits your needs.
- We come to you: Our FAA Certified Flight Instructors travel to your location anywhere in the United States, in cities and rural areas alike.
- Tailored instruction: One-on-one or group training customized to your skill level and objectives, for beginners and advanced pilots alike.
Learn more about our in-person Part 107 test preparation.
Advanced Training Opportunities
After earning your Part 107 certificate, you can build on it with specialized courses:
- Drone photography and videography: Advanced aerial cinematography techniques.
- Drone GIS and mapping: Professional surveying and photogrammetry methods.
- Thermal imaging and inspections: Training for infrastructure and industrial applications.
- Public safety: Programs for police, fire and emergency response teams, including custom curricula for government and law enforcement agencies.
- Corporate programs: Corporate drone training programs for teams and departments.
How Do You Renew a Part 107 Certificate?
Recurrent Training Every 24 Calendar Months
To keep flying under Part 107, complete the free FAA online recurrent training course (ALC-677) every 24 calendar months. It is available through the FAA Safety Team (FAASafety.gov) website and does not require a visit to a testing center. For a step-by-step walkthrough, see our guide to Part 107 recurrent training.
Night Operations
Since the rule change of April 2021, Part 107 pilots may fly at night without a waiver, provided they have completed the updated knowledge test or recurrent training that includes night operations, and the drone has anti-collision lighting visible for at least 3 statute miles. See our full guide to Part 107 night operations.
Report Accidents
If your drone is involved in an accident that causes serious injury or more than $500 of property damage (excluding the drone), you must report it to the FAA within 10 days.
What Can You Do With a Part 107 Certificate?
Industries Hiring Drone Pilots
- Real estate: Property visuals.
- Construction: Site mapping and progress tracking.
- Agriculture: Crop monitoring and soil analysis.
- Film and media: Cinematic aerial shots.
- Public safety: Search and rescue operations.
- Infrastructure inspection: Bridges, towers and pipelines.
Potential Earnings
- Freelance work: Typical rates range from $200 to $500 per project.
- Full-time positions: Salaries can range from $50,000 to $100,000 or more annually, depending on experience and industry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to know how to fly a drone before getting certified?
No. The FAA does not require a practical flight test. However, practical experience is valuable, and Drone Universities offers hands-on flight training.
How hard is the Aeronautical Knowledge Test?
With proper preparation, most people find the test manageable. Structured instruction that covers every knowledge area is the most reliable way to prepare.
What happens if I fail the knowledge test?
You can retake the test after waiting 14 days. You pay the test fee each time.
How often do I need to renew my certification?
Complete the free FAA online recurrent training course every 24 calendar months to keep your certificate current.
Can I fly at night with a Part 107 certificate?
Yes. Since April 2021, no waiver is needed. You must have completed the updated knowledge test or recurrent training, and your drone needs anti-collision lighting visible for 3 statute miles.
Do I need a license for recreational flying?
Not a Part 107 certificate. Recreational pilots must pass the free TRUST test and follow the safety guidelines of an FAA-recognized community-based organization. See Do you need a license to fly a drone?
Can I use my Part 107 certificate outside the USA?
No. The Part 107 certificate is valid only in the United States. To fly in another country, follow that country’s drone regulations.
Do I need to own a drone to get certified?
No. The certificate qualifies you as a remote pilot, not for a specific aircraft.
Is drone insurance required?
It is not mandated by the FAA, but insurance is highly recommended for commercial operations to protect you and your clients.
Conclusion
Obtaining your FAA Part 107 Certification opens the door to commercial drone work. With the right guidance and training, you can navigate the certification process smoothly and start flying with confidence.
Ready to take the next step? Request in-person Part 107 training. Our FAA Certified Flight Instructors travel to you in all 50 states, 7 days a week. Call 1.818.255.0406 or request training online.
Not sure how to prepare? Compare online vs in-person Part 107 training, or read our guide on how to choose a drone training school.
Email: info@droneuniversities.com
