Part 107 Drone License
How To Obtain Your Part 107 Drone License
Become a Certified Remote Pilot
To operate your drone under the FAA’s Small UAS Rule (Part 107), obtaining a Remote Pilot Certificate is essential. This certification demonstrates your knowledge of regulations, operating requirements, and safe drone-flying procedures.
Are You a First-Time Pilot or Part 61 Certificate Holder?
Whether you’re new to drone piloting or an existing Part 61 certificate holder, we can guide you through the process. Need to keep your Remote Pilot Certificate current? Unsure what type of drone operator you are? We’re here to help!
For First-Time Pilots
Eligibility Requirements:
To qualify as a drone pilot, you must:
- Be at least 16 years old.
- Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English.
- Be in a physical and mental condition to safely operate a drone.
- Pass the initial aeronautical knowledge exam: “Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG)”.
Key Certificate Requirements:
- Your Remote Pilot Certificate must always be easily accessible during drone operations.
- Complete online recurrent training every 24 months to maintain current aeronautical knowledge.
Step-by-Step Process to Become a Drone Pilot:
1. Get an FAA Tracking Number (FTN):
Create an Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) profile.
2. Schedule Your Exam:
Book an appointment at an FAA-approved Knowledge Testing Center.
Bring a government-issued photo ID to your test.
3. Pass the Knowledge Test:
The test covers:
Drone regulations and operational requirements.
Airspace classifications, weather impacts, and aircraft performance.
Emergency procedures, crew resource management, and decision-making.
4. Complete Form 8710-13 on IACRA:
Log in to IACRA and start a new application for a Remote Pilot Certificate.
Enter your 17-digit Knowledge Test Exam ID (available 48 hours post-test).
Sign and submit your application electronically.
5. TSA Security Check:
Once cleared, you’ll receive an email with instructions to print your temporary certificate.
6. Receive Your Permanent Certificate:
Your official Remote Pilot Certificate will arrive by mail after FAA processing.
7. Always Carry Your Certificate:
Ensure your Remote Pilot Certificate is accessible during all operations.
For Existing Part 61 Certificate Holders
Eligibility Requirements:
- Hold a valid pilot certificate under 14 CFR Part 61.
- Have completed a flight review within the past 24 months.
Certificate Maintenance:
- Your Remote Pilot Certificate must be readily accessible during drone operations.
- Complete online recurrent training every 24 months to stay current.
Steps to Certification Renewal:
Log In to the FAA Safety Team Website:
Complete the Part 107 Small UAS Initial (ALC-451) online training course.
Log In to IACRA:
Start a new application for a Remote Pilot Certificate.
Validate Your Identity:
Present your completed Form 8710-13, proof of flight review, photo ID, and training certificate to an FAA-authorized representative (FSDO, DPE, ACR, or CFI).
Receive Your Certificate:
The representative will process your application and issue a temporary airman certificate.
Permanent Certificate Delivery:
Your permanent certificate will arrive by mail in a few weeks.
Carry Your Certificate During Operations:
Always have your Remote Pilot Certificate available when flying your UAS.
Keeping Your Certificate Current
To operate under Part 107, Remote Pilots must complete one of these online courses within the past 24 months:
All Part 107 Certificate Holders:
Complete the Part 107 Small UAS Recurrent (ALC-677) course.
Part 107 Pilots with Current Part 61 Flight Review: Complete the Part 107 Small UAS Recurrent (ALC-515) course.
Stay informed with the Remote Pilot – Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Airman Certification Standards (PDF).