Federal Aviation Administration Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (FAA Part 107)
The FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate allows individuals to operate small unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for commercial purposes in the United States. It ensures pilots understand airspace regulations, operating requirements, and safety procedures.
Total Cost
Estimated Budget
Median Salary
Annual Earnings
Job Growth
10-Year Outlook
Training Hours
Total Program Duration
Who Needs This Credential?
Commercial drone pilots who operate drones for aerial photography, inspections, and other business-related tasks must obtain this certificate to comply with U.S. aviation regulations.
As a federal certification, the FAA Part 107 is valid across all states without the need for state-specific reciprocity agreements.
Requirements
The FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is required to operate commercial drones in the U.S. Applicants must pass an aeronautical knowledge test, meet age and health requirements, and undergo a background check.
- Minimum Age
- 16 years
- Minimum Education
- No formal education requirement
- Training Hours
- No specific hours required, but must pass the FAA aeronautical knowledge test
- Background Check
- Includes review of criminal history and security-sensitive issues
Other Requirements
How to Become FAA Part 107 Certified
The FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate process involves several key steps and typically takes 1-2 months to complete. Applicants must pass an aeronautical knowledge test, meet eligibility requirements, and complete an application process to earn their certification.
Verify Eligibility
Confirm that you meet the basic requirements: at least 16 years old, able to read, speak, write, and understand English, and in a physical and mental condition to safely operate a small UAS.
Ensure all personal information is accurate and up-to-date.
Prepare for the Aeronautical Knowledge Test
Study for the FAA Part 107 knowledge test, which covers topics like regulations, airspace classification, weather, loading and performance, and operations. Various study materials and courses are available online.
Take practice tests to gauge readiness.
Schedule the Knowledge Test
Schedule your test at an FAA-approved Knowledge Testing Center. Appointments can be made through testing service providers such as PSI.
Choose a testing center close to you to minimize travel.
Take the Knowledge Test
Complete the knowledge test, which consists of 60 multiple-choice questions. You must score at least 70% to pass.
Arrive early to the testing center to allow time for check-in procedures.
Apply for Certification
After passing the test, complete the FAA Form 8710-13 for a remote pilot certificate (FAA Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application) online through the Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) system.
Double-check that all entered information is correct to avoid delays.
TSA Background Check
Undergo a background check by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). This step starts automatically after submitting your application on IACRA.
Ensure there are no discrepancies in your application to prevent delays.
Receive Your Certificate
After approval by the TSA and FAA, you will receive a temporary electronic certificate, followed by a permanent certificate mailed to your address. The permanent certificate is typically received within 6-8 weeks.
Keep the electronic certificate accessible until the permanent one arrives.
Cost Breakdown
The total cost for obtaining an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate varies primarily due to training expenses, which can differ based on the provider and course depth. No financial aid is typically available, but some employers may cover costs.
💰 Financial Aid Available
Some employers may pay for the training and exam fees if the certification is required for the employee's role.
Salary & Career Outlook
Entry Level
$70,000
Median Salary
$122,670
Experienced
$150,000
Job Outlook: 5.1%
The projected growth in the field is driven by increasing demand for drone technology in various sectors such as agriculture, real estate, and media. Regulatory advancements and the integration of drones in logistics and delivery services also contribute to this growth.
Exam Information
The FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate exam is a mandatory test for those looking to operate commercial drones in the U.S. airspace. It consists of a written test that assesses a candidate's understanding of aviation regulations, operating requirements, and procedures for safely operating drones. Preparation involves studying FAA guidelines and can include training courses or practice exams.
Unmanned Aircraft General - Small (UAG)
Administered by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) • Fee: $175
Career Advancement Paths
Industry Insights
Data from Bureau of Labor Statistics & O*NET
FAA Part 107 Remote Pilots: Poised for 3.1% Growth Amid Rising Automation
Current Employment
—
Projected
—
Growth Rate
+3.1%
New Positions
—
What's Driving Demand
The 3.1% growth in the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot sector is driven by expanded commercial applications of drones, advancements in drone technology, and evolving regulations that accommodate wider drone usage.
The FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate profession, vital for drone operations, is expected to see a modest growth of 3.1% from 2024 to 2034, translating to increased employment from 169,956,100 to 175,167,900. This growth, while moderate, highlights the expanding utility of drones across various sectors including commercial delivery, agriculture, and surveillance. The median annual wage for this role stands at $49,500, reflecting its specialized nature yet accessibility in terms of financial investment for entry. As technology evolves, particularly with advancements in AI and automation, the landscape of this profession is set to transform significantly, presenting both challenges and opportunities for remote pilots. AI-driven automation in drones will handle more routine monitoring tasks, freeing up pilots to focus on complex operations and strategic oversight. Emerging AI tools in navigation and data analysis will demand a new skill set, enabling pilots who adapt early to differentiate themselves and potentially command higher earnings. Demographic shifts, particularly in urban areas, are increasing the demand for quick delivery services, directly benefiting drone operations. Conversely, regulatory developments will play a crucial role in shaping operational scopes and pilot responsibilities. For individuals considering this career path, early adoption of AI tools and staying informed on regulatory changes will be key to leveraging this credential effectively.
Long-Term Outlook
AI & Automation
medium disruption riskAI and automation pose a dual-edged sword; they threaten to automate routine drone piloting tasks but also create opportunities for pilots proficient in advanced drone technology and AI applications. Adaptation to AI is not just beneficial but necessary for career longevity.
Changes are already underway and will continue to evolve over the next decade.
Demographics
Urbanization and increased consumer expectations for rapid delivery are amplifying the need for drone pilots, particularly in metropolitan areas.
Key factor: Urbanization
Policy & Regulation
Regulatory changes, particularly those expanding drone operational scopes, will significantly influence the demand and responsibilities of FAA Part 107 certified pilots.
Industry Shifts
The drone industry is seeing increased consolidation with major tech companies investing in drone delivery and surveillance capabilities. This consolidation is setting the stage for more structured career paths in drone piloting.
Top Skills
Operation Monitoring
85/100Critical Thinking
78/100Active Listening
75/100Bottom Line
The FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot credential is increasingly valuable for those who embrace AI and automation. While AI introduces risks by automating certain tasks, it also enhances the role's strategic importance and breadth.
State-by-State Variations
FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate requirements are federally mandated and consistent across all states, with no state-specific variations in the certification process.
Most Strict
Most Accessible
Renewal Requirements
FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate must be renewed every 24 months to ensure pilots are up-to-date with current regulations and safety practices. Renewal involves passing a recurrent knowledge test, which is crucial for maintaining legal flying privileges for commercial drone operations.
Renewal Period
every 24 months
Renewal Cost
Varies by testing center, typically around $160
CE Hours
Not specified by hours, but must pass a recurrent knowledge test
CE Topics: Airspace classification, operating requirements, and flight restrictions, Aviation weather sources and effects of weather on drone performance, Emergency procedures, crew resource management, and radio communication procedures
If renewal is late, the certificate is considered expired and you cannot legally operate as a remote pilot until you pass the recurrent knowledge test.
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Recommended Resources
FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate Exam Prep Practice Test
Practice questions for the Unmanned Aircraft General - Small (UAG) exam.
FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate Study Guide
Comprehensive study guide covering all FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate exam topics.
FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate Certification All-in-One
Everything you need to prepare for FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate certification.
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