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Are you considering taking to the skies with your drone for commercial purposes? If so, obtaining your FAA Part 107 certificate—sometimes known as your drone pilot license—is an essential step. This certification not only legitimizes your operations but also ensures that you are equipped with the necessary knowledge of safety and regulations to navigate the airspace effectively. In this article post, we’ll guide you through what you need to know to get your drone pilot license, drawing key insights from our FAA Part 107 information session that we ran on Drone Safety Day: “Get your drone pilot license | FAA Part 107 Information Session | Drone Safety Day.”
Understanding FAA Part 107
The FAA Part 107 certificate is crucial to operate your drone commercially. This isn’t limited to direct business transactions; any flight not strictly for recreation falls under commercial use. Whether capturing aerial footage for a YouTube channel or conducting inspections for a construction site, you’ll need this certification to comply with legal standards.
Eligibility Requirements to get your drone pilot license
To get your drone pilot license, you must meet specific criteria set by the FAA:
- Age: You must be at least 16 years old.
- Language: You should be able to read, speak, write, and understand English.
- Physical and Mental Fitness: You must be physically and mentally capable of safely operating a drone.
The Knowledge Exam
The Part 107 exam is a multiple-choice test covering many topics necessary for safe and legal drone operation. This includes understanding airspace classification, weather effects on drone performance, loading and performance, and emergency procedures. Remember, the exam focuses on theoretical knowledge rather than practical flying skills.
Preparing for the Exam
Proper preparation is key to passing the Part 107 exam. Here are some steps you can take to ensure you’re ready:
- Study Resources: Use the Airman Certification Standards as a study guide. This document outlines all the topics you’ll be tested on. Resources like the FAA’s study materials and practice exams from King Schools can be extremely beneficial.
- Understanding Learning Preferences: Identify how you best absorb information, whether through videos, reading material, or interactive courses. Tailoring your study methods to your learning style can enhance your understanding and retention of the material.
Registering and Taking the FAA part 107 Exam
To get your drone pilot license, you must register for the exam through the FAA’s Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA). After registering, you can schedule your test at an FAA-approved knowledge testing center. Make sure to bring a government-issued photo ID to the test.
After the Exam
Upon passing the exam, you must complete additional steps to get your drone pilot license officially. This includes submitting an application through IACRA and passing a background check. Once approved, you’ll receive your remote pilot certificate in the mail.
Maintaining Your Certification
Your drone pilot license is valid for 24 months. To renew it, you must complete a recurrent online training course and pass a quiz with a 100% score, available through faasafety.gov. Staying current with this certification complies with regulations and ensures you remain knowledgeable about the latest drone operation safety and standards.
Conclusion
Getting your drone pilot license is an investment in your future as a commercial drone operator. It demonstrates your commitment to safety and adherence to regulations, making you a trustworthy choice for clients and collaborators. If you’re ready to take the next step in your drone career, begin preparing for your Part 107 exam today and ensure you are well-equipped to take to the skies safely and legally.
Watch the YouTube video “Get your drone pilot license | FAA Part 107 Information Session | Drone Safety Day” for further insights and detailed guidance.
