How to Become a Licensed Drone Pilot in 2026
By Renzo, CPL · Updated March 2026
The commercial drone industry is projected to reach $58.4 billion by 2026. Whether you want to start a drone photography business, inspect infrastructure, or map agricultural land, it all starts with one thing: your FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. This guide walks you through every step from zero experience to a licensed, working drone pilot.
Last updated: March 2026 · Sources: FAA, BLS, industry reports
865,000+
Registered Drones (FAA)
350,000+
Part 107 Pilots
92%
Exam Pass Rate
$175
Exam Fee
What Is a Drone Pilot?
A drone pilot (also called a remote pilot, UAS operator, or unmanned aircraft pilot) is someone who operates unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for commercial, recreational, or government purposes. In the United States, anyone who flies a drone for commercial purposes — meaning any operation that is not purely for fun — must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
This includes obvious commercial activities like aerial photography for pay, but also less obvious scenarios: posting drone footage on a monetized YouTube channel, using drone photos to promote your own business, or flying drones as part of your job duties all require Part 107 certification.
The barrier to entry is lower than most people expect. Unlike becoming a manned aircraft pilot (which requires hundreds of hours of flight training and tens of thousands of dollars), becoming a licensed drone pilot requires passing a single knowledge test. No flight hours, no medical certificate, and no instructor sign-off are needed.
Step-by-Step: Getting Your FAA Part 107 Certificate
The process is straightforward. Most people complete all five steps in 2-4 weeks. Here is exactly what to do:
Check Your Eligibility
The requirements are minimal. You must be at least 16 years old, able to read, speak, write, and understand English, and be in a physical and mental condition to safely operate a drone. There is no U.S. citizenship requirement — foreign nationals can obtain Part 107 certification. You do not need a medical certificate, pilot license, or any prior aviation experience.
Create an IACRA Account & Get Your FTN
Before taking the exam, register on the FAA's Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) system at iacra.faa.gov. This generates your FAA Tracking Number (FTN), which you will need when scheduling your knowledge test. Registration is free and takes about 10 minutes. Make sure to write down your FTN — you will need it at the testing center.
Study for the Part 107 Knowledge Test
This is the most important step. The Part 107 Unmanned Aircraft General (UAG) knowledge test covers five major areas: regulations, airspace, weather, loading and performance, and operations. The test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, and you need 70% (42 correct) to pass.
Most candidates study for 15-20 hours over 2-3 weeks. The areas that trip people up most are airspace classifications (understanding sectional charts) and weather theory (METARs, density altitude). Focus your study time on these areas if you are short on time.
The best way to prepare is with realistic practice tests that mirror the actual exam format. Take a free Part 107 practice test to gauge your readiness and identify weak areas before scheduling the real exam.
Schedule and Take the FAA Knowledge Test
The Part 107 knowledge test is administered at FAA-approved testing centers operated by PSI (formerly known as CATS and LaserGrade). There are hundreds of testing locations across the United States. Schedule your test at psiexams.com.
The test fee is $175, paid directly to the testing center. You will have 2 hours to complete 60 questions. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID and your FTN. A basic calculator is allowed, and the testing center will provide a supplement booklet with sectional chart excerpts, airspace diagrams, and reference figures. Most people finish in 60-90 minutes.
Complete Your Application and Get Certified
After passing the knowledge test, log back into IACRA and complete your Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate application. The TSA will conduct a background check, which typically takes 1-2 weeks (sometimes as fast as 48 hours, occasionally up to 6 weeks).
Once approved, you will receive a temporary certificate that allows you to start flying commercially immediately. Your permanent plastic certificate card will arrive by mail within 6-8 weeks. Congratulations — you are now a licensed commercial drone pilot.
Ready to start studying?
Our Part 107 question bank covers every topic on the FAA exam. Realistic practice tests, detailed explanations, and progress tracking.
Start Studying for $7.49/moWhat's on the Part 107 Exam?
The FAA Part 107 Unmanned Aircraft General (UAG) knowledge test covers five major knowledge areas. Understanding the weight of each area helps you prioritize your study time. Operations is by far the largest section, followed by airspace and regulations.
| Knowledge Area | Weight | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Regulations | 15-20% | 14 CFR Part 107 rules, airspace classifications, registration requirements, and remote pilot certificate privileges and limitations. |
| Airspace & Requirements | 15-25% | Controlled and uncontrolled airspace, LAANC authorization, TFRs, NOTAMs, and sectional chart interpretation. |
| Weather | 11-16% | Sources of weather data, effects of weather on small UAS performance, METARs, TAFs, density altitude, and microbursts. |
| Loading & Performance | 7-11% | Weight and balance, center of gravity, effects of wind, computing takeoff and landing performance. |
| Operations | 35-45% | Airport operations, emergency procedures, crew resource management, aeronautical decision-making, radio communication, and physiological factors. |
Want to see the types of questions you will face? Try our free Part 107 practice quiz →
How Long Does It Take to Become a Drone Pilot?
Most people go from zero experience to certified drone pilot in 2-4 weeks. Here is a realistic timeline:
Create IACRA account, begin studying Part 107 material. Focus on regulations and airspace (the two trickiest areas).
Continue studying weather, operations, and loading/performance. Take practice tests to identify weak areas.
Review weak areas, take more practice tests until consistently scoring 85%+. Schedule your FAA knowledge test.
Take the FAA knowledge test ($175). Most candidates finish in 60-90 minutes.
Complete IACRA application. TSA background check processes (typically 1-2 weeks). Receive temporary certificate.
If you already hold a manned aircraft pilot certificate (Part 61), the process is even faster. You can complete the Part 107 initial training course online through the FAA Safety website for free, skipping the $175 knowledge test at a testing center entirely. This takes most existing pilots just 2-4 hours.
How Much Does It Cost to Become a Drone Pilot?
Becoming a licensed drone pilot is remarkably affordable compared to other aviation certifications. The minimum cost is just $175 for the FAA knowledge test. Here is a complete breakdown of all potential costs:
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| FAA Knowledge Test Fee | $175 | Paid to the testing center (PSI). Non-refundable. |
| Study Materials | $0 - $150 | Free resources available, but structured courses improve pass rates significantly. |
| IACRA Registration | Free | FAA's Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application system. |
| TSA Background Check | Free | Included as part of the Part 107 application process. |
| Drone (if needed) | $300 - $2,000+ | Entry-level: DJI Mini series (~$300). Professional: DJI Mavic 3 or Autel EVO II (~$1,500+). |
| FAA Registration (per drone) | $5 | Required for all drones 0.55 lbs to 55 lbs. Valid for 3 years. |
| Retake Fee (if needed) | $175 | Must wait 14 days before retaking. No limit on attempts. |
Total estimated cost: $175 - $2,500+
The $175 knowledge test is the only mandatory cost. Everything else depends on whether you already own a drone and which study materials you choose. Compare this to becoming a private pilot ($10,000-$15,000) or a commercial pilot ($60,000-$100,000).
Part 107 Waivers: Flying Beyond Standard Rules
The standard Part 107 rules impose several limitations: no flying over people not directly participating in the operation, no flying over moving vehicles, maximum altitude of 400 feet AGL, and visual line-of-sight only. However, the FAA allows certificated remote pilots to apply for waivers to many of these restrictions.
Common waivers include operations over people (Category 1-4 under the 2021 rules), beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), nighttime operations in restricted areas, and flights above 400 feet AGL. The waiver application process involves demonstrating to the FAA that you can conduct the operation safely, including risk mitigation strategies and operational procedures.
For a complete breakdown of every waiver type, requirements, and how to apply, read our Part 107 Waiver Guide →
Career Paths for Drone Pilots
The drone industry offers a wide range of career paths, from creative work like cinematography to highly technical roles in infrastructure inspection and surveying. Here are the eight most common career paths for Part 107-certified drone pilots, along with realistic salary expectations.
Real Estate Photography & Videography
$40,000 - $80,000
Aerial photos and videos for property listings. High demand in residential and commercial real estate markets.
Infrastructure Inspection
$65,000 - $130,000
Inspecting power lines, cell towers, bridges, wind turbines, and solar farms. Often requires additional training or STEM background.
Agriculture & Crop Management
$50,000 - $100,000
Crop health monitoring via multispectral imaging, precision spraying, and field mapping. Growing rapidly with AgTech adoption.
Surveying & Mapping (GIS)
$55,000 - $110,000
Creating orthomosaic maps, 3D models, and topographic surveys for construction, mining, and land development.
Film & Cinematography
$70,000 - $150,000+
Aerial footage for movies, TV shows, commercials, and events. Premium rates for experienced cinematographers with showreels.
Delivery & Logistics
$45,000 - $85,000
Operating delivery drones for companies like Amazon, UPS, Wing, and Zipline. Emerging field with rapid growth potential.
Public Safety & Emergency Response
$50,000 - $90,000
Search and rescue, fire monitoring, disaster assessment, and law enforcement support. Often government or contractor positions.
Drone Instruction & Training
$45,000 - $80,000
Teaching Part 107 prep courses, flight training, and specialized applications. Can be lucrative as a side business.
How Much Do Drone Pilots Make?
Drone pilot salaries vary widely depending on specialization, location, experience, and whether you work as an employee or independent contractor. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and industry salary surveys, here is what you can realistically expect:
Entry-Level (0-1 year experience)
$30,000 - $50,000
New Part 107 pilots typically start with real estate photography or general aerial photography. Hourly rates of $75-$150 are common for per-job work.
Mid-Level (1-3 years experience)
$50,000 - $90,000
Pilots who specialize in higher-value niches like inspection, mapping, or agriculture. Building a portfolio and client base leads to significantly higher earnings.
Experienced (3+ years experience)
$80,000 - $150,000+
Experienced pilots in specialized fields like film production, industrial inspection, or BVLOS operations. Business owners with multiple clients can exceed $150K.
Independent contractors typically earn more per hour than salaried employees, but must account for equipment costs, insurance, marketing, and downtime between jobs. Many successful drone pilots combine multiple specializations — for example, real estate photography as a base income with occasional higher-paying inspection or mapping contracts.
Starting a Drone Business
Many drone pilots choose to work as independent contractors or start their own drone services business rather than working as employees. The startup costs are relatively low (a professional drone, insurance, and a business license), and the demand for commercial drone services continues to grow across virtually every industry.
Key steps to starting a drone business include choosing a niche (specialization beats being a generalist), investing in the right equipment for your chosen market, getting proper insurance ($1-2 million liability coverage is standard), building a portfolio of sample work, and marketing to your target clients.
For detailed business ideas, pricing strategies, and market analysis across 15 different drone business niches, read our comprehensive guide: 15 Profitable Drone Business Ideas →
Tips from Licensed Drone Pilots
Take practice tests until you score 85%+ consistently
The passing score is 70%, but aim higher. The actual exam may include questions on topics you did not study thoroughly. A consistent 85%+ on practice tests gives you a comfortable margin.
Master sectional charts early
Sectional chart reading questions are the most commonly missed on the Part 107 exam. Spend extra time learning airspace boundaries, symbols, and how to determine maximum altitudes in different areas.
Do not skip weather theory
METARs, TAFs, and density altitude calculations appear frequently on the exam. Many candidates underestimate weather questions because they seem less relevant to drone operations, but they make up 11-16% of the test.
Start building your portfolio before your first paid gig
Fly as a hobbyist (under recreational rules) to build a showreel of aerial footage. Offer free or discounted work to friends, local businesses, or real estate agents to build your portfolio before trying to land paying clients.
Invest in insurance before your first commercial flight
Even if clients do not require it, drone liability insurance protects you from potentially devastating claims. A single accident involving property damage or injury could cost far more than years of insurance premiums ($500-$1,500/year).
Learn More About Part 107
For a deeper dive into Part 107 regulations, study strategies, and exam-day tips, visit our dedicated Part 107 Complete Guide. It covers everything from specific regulation breakdowns to advanced airspace concepts that frequently appear on the exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do you have to be to get a drone pilot license?
You must be at least 16 years old to obtain an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. There is no upper age limit. You also need to be able to read, speak, write, and understand English.
How hard is the Part 107 exam?
The Part 107 exam has a national pass rate of approximately 92%. The test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, and you need a score of 70% (42 correct) to pass. With 2-3 weeks of focused study using quality prep materials, most people pass on their first attempt.
How long is the Part 107 certificate valid?
Your Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate does not expire. However, you must complete recurrent training (an online knowledge test) every 24 months to maintain your commercial privileges. The recurrent test is free and can be taken online through the FAA Safety website (FAASTeam).
Can I fly a drone at night with Part 107?
Yes. As of the 2021 rule update, Part 107 pilots can fly at night without a waiver, provided the drone has anti-collision lighting visible for at least 3 statute miles. You must also complete updated initial or recurrent training that includes night operations.
Do I need insurance to fly drones commercially?
Insurance is not legally required by the FAA, but it is strongly recommended and often required by clients. Drone liability insurance typically costs $500-$1,500 per year for $1 million in coverage. Many commercial clients and government contracts require proof of insurance before hiring a drone operator.
How do I renew my Part 107 certificate?
You complete recurrent training every 24 calendar months. Since April 2021, this is done online for free through the FAA Safety website (WINGS/FAASTeam). The online course and knowledge test take approximately 1-2 hours. You do not need to go to a testing center or pay any fees for recurrent training.
Can I fly drones commercially without Part 107?
No. Any commercial drone operation in the United States requires a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate or a Section 44809 exemption (which is limited to recreational flying). Flying commercially without Part 107 can result in FAA enforcement action, including fines up to $32,666 per violation.
What drone pilot jobs are available?
The most in-demand drone pilot jobs include real estate photography ($40K-$80K), infrastructure inspection ($65K-$130K), agriculture and crop management ($50K-$100K), surveying and mapping ($55K-$110K), film and cinematography ($70K-$150K+), delivery operations ($45K-$85K), and public safety ($50K-$90K). Many drone pilots work as independent contractors or start their own businesses.
Pass Your Part 107 Exam on the First Try
Join thousands of drone pilots who passed their FAA Part 107 exam using Rotate. Our question bank covers every topic on the exam with detailed explanations, realistic practice tests, flashcards, and progress tracking — so you know exactly when you are ready.