Why Part 107 Certification Matters for Commercial Drone Operations

The Federal Aviation Administration’s Part 107 rule governs the commercial operation of small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS), commonly known as drones. Earning your Remote Pilot Certificate under this regulation is not only a legal requirement for any flight that is not purely recreational—it also signals to clients, insurers, and regulators that you understand safety, airspace, and operational best practices. Since the rule was established in 2016, over 300,000 pilots have obtained certification, and the FAA continues to refine requirements to keep pace with evolving technology and airspace integration. Whether you fly for real estate photography, agricultural surveys, inspection, or aerial delivery, maintaining a valid Part 107 certificate is the foundation of a professional drone business.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Your Part 107 Certification

Confirm You Meet the Eligibility Requirements

Before investing time in study materials, verify that you satisfy the basic FAA criteria. You must:

  • Be at least 16 years old (there is no upper age limit).
  • Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English (required for air traffic control communications and understanding aeronautical charts).
  • Be in a physical and mental condition to safely operate a drone. There are no specific medical certificate requirements, but you must self-certify that you have no condition that would interfere with safe operation.
  • Pass the initial Aeronautical Knowledge Test (commonly called the Part 107 exam) at an FAA-approved Knowledge Testing Center.

Prepare Thoroughly for the Aeronautical Knowledge Test

The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, and you need a score of at least 70% to pass. Topics are drawn from the FAA’s Airman Certification Standards (ACS) for Part 107. Key areas include:

  • Regulations – operational limits, airspace classifications, flight restrictions (temporary flight restrictions, stadium TFRs, etc.)
  • Airspace classification and requirements – understanding sectional charts, identifying controlled airspace, and knowing when you need ATC authorization (e.g., Class B, C, D, or E surface areas).
  • Weather and micro-meteorology – interpreting METARs and TAFs, recognizing hazards like wind shear, and assessing visibility and cloud clearance requirements.
  • Drone loading and performance – weight and balance, battery performance at different temperatures, and understanding how density altitude affects flight.
  • Emergency procedures – lost-link procedures, flyaways, and how to respond to a ground emergency.
  • Crew resource management and radio communication procedures – even though radio use is not mandatory, knowing CTAF frequencies and phraseology is helpful.

Study resources include the FAA’s Part 107 website, the free online courses from the FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam), and third-party ground schools. Many pilots find that dedicating 15–20 hours of focused study over 2–4 weeks is sufficient.

Schedule and Pass the Knowledge Test

Locate an FAA-approved Knowledge Testing Center through the IACRA system or the FAA’s testing center database. The test costs approximately $175 (subject to change). Bring a government-issued photo ID and be prepared for a computer-based exam that lasts two hours. Most testing centers allow you to reschedule if you cannot pass on the first attempt, though you must wait 14 days between retakes.

Complete the Application via IACRA

After passing the test, you will receive a knowledge test report with a unique ID. Within IACRA, create an account, select “Start New Application” and choose “Remote Pilot” as the certificate type. You will enter your personal details, test report ID, and answer questions about your eligibility. A FAA-designated examiner or the FAA’s Airman Certification Branch will review your application. Once approved, you can print a temporary certificate valid for 120 days, and the permanent plastic certificate will arrive by mail within 6–8 weeks.

Receive Your Remote Pilot Certificate

The certificate does not expire, but the privileges expire 24 calendar months after the month you passed the initial knowledge test. To keep exercising those privileges, you must pass a recurrent knowledge test before the expiration date. If your certificate lapses, you cannot fly commercially until you pass another initial knowledge test or a recurrent test (whichever applies).

How to Maintain Your Part 107 Certification Over Time

Pass the Recurrent Knowledge Test Every 24 Months

The single most important maintenance task is passing the Part 107 recurrent test. The FAA offers a free online recurrent test through the FAA Safety Team’s website. It covers updates to regulations, new airspace procedures, and common safety issues. The test consists of 45 questions, and you need a 70% to pass. You can retake it at any time if you fail. Set a calendar reminder 60 days before your certificate expiration date to ensure you do not lose your privileges.

If you prefer, you can take the recurrent test at an in-person testing center, but the online version is more convenient. Note that the recurrent test is not the same as the initial test—it is shorter and focuses on changes since your last exam. However, you should still review the full Part 107 rule and the Aeronautical Information Manual to answer questions accurately.

Stay Current with FAA Regulatory Updates

The FAA periodically updates Part 107. Recent changes include rules allowing operations over moving vehicles, night operations (if your drone has anti-collision lights and you have completed a night training course or recurrent test that covers night operations), and a simplified waiver process for certain operations. Subscribe to the FAA UAS email notifications to receive direct updates. Additionally, review the FAA’s Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) and Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) before every flight.

Comply with Operational Requirements

Even with a valid certificate, you must operate within the limits of Part 107. Key rules to remember:

  • Visual line of sight (VLOS): You (or a visual observer) must be able to see the drone at all times without binoculars or other aids.
  • Daylight and twilight operations: Unless you have completed the night training and equipped your drone with anti-collision lights, you may only fly from civil twilight (30 minutes before official sunrise to 30 minutes after official sunset) in good weather.
  • Maximum altitude: 400 feet above ground level, unless you are within 400 feet of a structure (then you may fly up to 400 feet above the structure’s top).
  • Maximum groundspeed: 100 mph (87 knots).
  • Yielding right of way: You must give way to manned aircraft and avoid other drones.
  • No reckless or careless operations: This includes flying over unprotected people or moving vehicles without a waiver.

If your operation requires exceeding any of these limitations (e.g., flying beyond VLOS, over people, at night without anti-collision lights), you must apply for a Part 107 waiver. The waiver process can take weeks or months, so plan ahead.

Maintain Flight Records and Logs

While the FAA does not mandate how you log flight time for Part 107, maintaining a detailed flight log is a best practice for safety and liability reasons. Record the date, location, duration, weather conditions, pre-flight checks, and any anomalies. If you ever need to demonstrate compliance (e.g., after a safety incident or during a ramp inspection), a thorough logbook provides clear evidence of your practices. Many pilots use digital logging apps or spreadsheets.

Complete Ongoing Training and Proficiency Checks

Although no formal recurrent flight training is required by the FAA for Part 107, staying proficient with your specific drone model is essential. Practice emergency procedures, simulate lost-link scenarios, and refresh your knowledge of your drone’s autopilot and failsafe behaviors. Consider taking a drone safety course from a reputable organization like the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) or through the FAA’s WINGS pilot proficiency program (adapted for drones). Joining industry groups such as the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) can also provide access to webinars, regulatory insights, and networking opportunities.

Maintaining your Part 107 certification also means understanding the liabilities of commercial operations. Most drone insurance policies require you to hold a valid Remote Pilot Certificate. Liability insurance is not mandatory under federal law, but many state parks, event organizers, and clients demand proof of coverage. Always carry your physical or digital certificate when flying commercially, along with proof of registration for each drone used in the operation.

Common Mistakes Part 107 Pilots Make & How to Avoid Them

Letting Your Certificate Expire

The biggest mistake is forgetting to take the recurrent test before the 24-month deadline. If your certificate expires, you cannot fly commercially until you pass a new initial knowledge test (not the recurrent test). Set multiple calendar alerts and schedule the test at least a month early to allow for retakes if necessary.

Operating Without Proper Authorization in Controlled Airspace

Part 107 initially required you to obtain an airspace authorization for flights in Class B, C, D, or E surface areas. The FAA LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) system automates this for most locations, but you must still use an approved service provider to request authorization. Failing to obtain clearance can result in enforcement action, including fines or certificate revocation.

Neglecting Monthly Drone Maintenance

Treat your drone like any aircraft. Perform regular inspections of propellers, motors, batteries, and gimbals. Log battery cycle counts and replace batteries that show swelling or reduced capacity. A mechanical failure due to poor maintenance can lead to a crash and potential liability claims. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and always update firmware as recommended.

Final Thoughts on the Lifetime of Your Part 107 Certification

Earning your Remote Pilot Certificate is a straightforward but rigorous process that demonstrates your commitment to safety and professionalism. Maintaining that certification requires ongoing attention: every two years you must pass the recurrent knowledge test, and every flight requires compliance with current regulations. By staying organized, using available FAA resources, and continuously educating yourself about airspace changes and best practices, you can keep your Part 107 certification active for as long as you fly commercially. The investment in time and study pays off in the credibility it gives you with clients, the peace of mind that comes from knowing you are operating legally, and the opportunities that open up in the growing drone industry.