top of page
Search

STEP 1: Study for the FAA Part 107 Knowledge Exam

You must pass the FAA’s Aeronautical Knowledge Test (AKT), also known as the Part 107 exam.


What to Study:

  • National Airspace System (NAS)

  • Weather and METARs

  • sUAS flight operations

  • FAA regulations (Part 107 rules)

  • Emergency procedures

  • Crew resource management

  • Radio communication procedures

  • Performance and loading

  • Airport operations

  • Effects of drugs and alcohol


Recommended Study Resources:

STEP 2: Schedule Your FAA Part 107 Exam

1. Create an IACRA Account (if you haven’t already)

  • Visit: iacra.faa.gov

  • Register as an applicant

  • This account is how you’ll apply for your Remote Pilot Certificate once you pass.

 

 2. Register for the Exam

  • Cost: $175 (subject to change)

  • Administered by PSI Exams (FAA’s testing partner)

  • Visit: faa.psiexams.com


Steps:

  1. Create a PSI account using your full legal name

  2. Choose "Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG)" as your exam type

  3. Find a nearby FAA-approved testing center

  4. Pick a date and time

  5. Bring valid government-issued ID on exam day


STEP 3: Pass the Exam

  • 60 multiple choice questions

  • 2 hours to complete

  • Passing score: 70% or higher

You’ll receive your score immediately at the testing center.


STEP 4: Apply for Your Remote Pilot Certificate

Once you pass:

  1. Log in to IACRA

  2. Start a Remote Pilot Certificate application

  3. Input your Knowledge Test ID (from your exam results)

  4. Submit the application


TSA Background Check: You’ll undergo an automatic TSA security vetting. Once cleared:

  • FAA will email your temporary certificate

  • Permanent certificate arrives by mail in 4–6 weeks

 

STEP 5: Register Your Drone via FAA Drone Zone

  • Create an account or log in

  • Register each drone under Part 107 (not recreational)

  • Cost: $5 per drone (valid 3 years)

  • Label your drone on the front and the back with the FA- registration number


STEP 6: Comply with Remote ID

Remote ID is mandatory for most operations. You have 3 options:

  1. Drone with built-in Standard Remote ID

  2. Attach a Remote ID Broadcast Module

  3. Fly in a FAA-Recognized Identification Area (FRIA) – for educational/recreational use

Check your drone manufacturer or app to verify compliance.


STEP 7: Set Up LAANC & Flight Planning Tools

Download and learn:

Use LAANC to get instant approval for flying in controlled airspace (Class B, C, D, and E-sfc).


STEP 8: Build Your Pre-Flight and Post-Flight Routine

Pre-Flight Checklist:

  • Verify airspace and get LAANC approval if needed

  • Check weather, NOTAMs, and TFRs

  • Inspect aircraft and batteries

  • Ensure Remote ID is functioning

  • Confirm VLOS and daylight operation

  • Mark pilot-in-command (PIC) roles


Post-Flight:

  • Log flight time and notes

  • Check for wear or needed maintenance

  • Charge and store batteries properly


STEP 9: Get Insurance and Protect Yourself

Types of Coverage:

  • Liability Insurance – protects others/property

  • Hull Insurance – covers damage to your drone

  • Payload & Equipment – covers cameras and sensors


Popular Providers:

STEP 10: Start Flying Professionally

Use your new certification to build a career or side business:

Industries to Explore:

  • Real estate marketing

  • Roof inspections

  • Construction site progress

  • Agriculture (NDVI and crop monitoring)

  • Mapping and 3D modeling

  • Event photography/video

 Create a:

  • Professional website

  • Flight portfolio

  • Pricing structure

  • Standard client contract and liability waiver


STEP 11: Stay Legal & Stay Current

Your Part 107 certificate must be renewed every 24 months

  • You can renew online for free through the FAA Safety Team (no more in-person testing)


STEP 12: Grow and Expand

Get FAA Waivers:

  • Night Operations (if needed)

  • Flying Over People

  • BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight)


Get More Training:

  • Thermal Imaging

  • Mapping & Surveying (Pix4D, Drone Deploy)

  • Cinematography

  • Public Safety/First Responder UAS ops


Final Thoughts:

Getting your Part 107 certificate is just the beginning. Now you’ve got the keys to a fast-growing, high-demand industry—but staying sharp, compliant, and professional is how you’ll win in the long run.


Good luck with your exam and happy flying!



Michael Hill is the Founder / CEO of Uncrewed Aerospace, an award-winning Drone Technology Company, that helps clients integrate Uncrewed Technology & Ai on the land, in the air, and at sea. Follow our work at www.uncrewedaerospace.com #TheDronePro


bottom of page