What Is FAA Part 107?
Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 107 — commonly known as "Part 107" — is the FAA's regulatory framework governing the commercial operation of small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) in the United States. Any person flying a drone for business purposes (including real estate photography, inspection services, mapping, or content creation for hire) must hold a valid Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
This rule covers drones weighing less than 55 pounds at takeoff. Heavier UAVs fall under different certification requirements.
Who Needs Part 107 Certification?
You need Part 107 if you are:
- Operating a drone for any commercial purpose (receiving payment, flying for your employer, etc.)
- Using drone footage or data in a professional capacity
- Flying as part of any business operation, even indirectly
Recreational hobbyist flyers are covered by a separate set of rules under the FAA's recreational flyer guidelines, though they still must register drones weighing over 0.55 lbs and follow safety guidelines.
The Certification Requirements
Eligibility
- Must be at least 16 years old
- Must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English
- Must be in a physical and mental condition to safely operate a drone
The Knowledge Test
The core requirement is passing the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Test (also called the Part 107 exam). This is a 60-question multiple-choice test administered at FAA-approved testing centers (PSI test centers nationwide). You must score 70% or higher to pass. The exam costs approximately $175.
Key Topics Covered on the Exam
- Airspace classification: Understanding Classes A through G, special use airspace, and temporary flight restrictions (TFRs)
- Weather and meteorology: Reading METARs, TAFs, and understanding weather effects on UAV operations
- Loading and performance: How weight, balance, and density altitude affect drone performance
- Emergency procedures: Correct responses to system failures and in-flight emergencies
- Crew resource management: Responsibilities of the remote pilot in command and visual observers
- Radio communications: Standard phraseology for communicating with ATC when necessary
- Part 107 operating rules: Altitude limits, speed limits, daylight operations, and waivers
Core Part 107 Operating Rules
| Rule | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Maximum altitude | 400 feet AGL (above ground level) |
| Maximum speed | 100 mph (87 knots) |
| Visual line of sight | Must maintain unaided visual contact with aircraft |
| Daylight operations | Sunrise to sunset (twilight allowed with anti-collision lighting) |
| Flying over people | Restricted (waiver or Category compliance required) |
| Flying from moving vehicles | Not permitted over populated areas without waiver |
Waivers and Authorizations
Part 107 allows operators to apply for waivers to certain rules — for example, flying at night, beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), or over people. Waivers require a detailed safety case submitted to the FAA and are granted on a case-by-case basis.
For airspace authorization (flying in controlled airspace near airports), operators use the LAANC system (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability), which provides near-instant authorization for many locations through apps like Aloft or DJI Fly.
Certificate Renewal
Part 107 certificates must be renewed every 24 calendar months. Renewal is currently done via a free online recurrent training course through the FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) website, rather than retaking the full proctored exam.
How to Study for the Exam
The FAA offers a free study guide. Paid prep courses from providers like Pilot Institute, UAV Coach, and DARTdrones provide structured video lessons and practice tests. Most candidates who study consistently for 2–4 weeks pass on their first attempt.
Final Thoughts
Earning your Part 107 certificate is the essential first step to operating professionally in the US drone industry. It demonstrates regulatory literacy, builds client trust, and — most importantly — keeps you, your clients, and the public safe.