Step-by-Step Guide to Passing the Part 107 Drone License Exam

By Damon Johnson, Raising Drones

Hey future drone pilots! If you're thinking about flying drones for work—maybe real estate, construction, farming, or just turning your hobby into a side hustle—then the Part 107 license is your first big step.

No stress, future pilot—I’ve got you. In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to study, prep, and pass the FAA Part 107 exam, without your head spinning like a quadcopter in a windstorm.

Let’s dive into it, step by step.

What is the Part 107 Drone License?

The Part 107 license, officially called the Remote Pilot Certificate, is what you need to legally fly a drone for commercial purposes in the U.S. Whether you’re taking photos for clients or surveying land, if there’s money involved, this license is a must.

Issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), it proves you understand how to fly safely and follow airspace rules.

Step 1: Make Sure You’re Eligible

Before you start studying, let’s check the basics:

✅ You’re at least 16 years old
✅ You can read, write, and speak English
✅ You’re physically and mentally able to fly safely
✅ You pass a background check from the TSA (don’t worry, it's standard)

Step 2: Study the Right Stuff

This isn’t a drone flight test—it’s a written test, and it covers airspace, weather, regulations, and more. You’ll be tested on:

• FAA rules (especially Part 107 regs)

• Airspace classes and maps (hello, sectional charts!)

• Weather reports (METARs and TAFs)

• Airport operations

• Emergency procedures

• Crew resource management

Yep, it's a lot. But don't worry—there are great resources to help you learn without falling asleep.

Want help with studying? Check out our FAA Part 107 Prep Training that simplifies complex topics with easy-to-follow videos, live Q&A, and practice quizzes. 

Best Study Resources:

1. Drone Launch Academy – A great course built for beginners. It walks you through the entire exam with videos, quizzes, and practice tests.
   Drone Launch Academy Guide

2. Autopylot’s Licensing Guide – Straightforward and updated regularly with exam tips.
   Autopylot Drone License Resource

3. FAA’s Remote Pilot Study Guide – Free and straight from the source. Great to review before test day.

4. YouTube Channels – I won’t lie, some of the best tips I got were from YouTube pros breaking down complex stuff like airspace and chart reading in plain English.

Step 3: Schedule Your Exam

Once you feel prepped and confident, it’s time to schedule the big day.

• Go to IACRA and create an FAA tracking number (FTN)

• Head to PSI Exams and book your test at a center near you

• The exam costs $175 (as of now)

You’ll be taking the Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG) test. It’s 60 multiple-choice questions. You need 70% to pass—that's at least 42 questions right.

Step 4: Exam Day Tips

Test day can be a little nerve-wracking, but here's what to expect:

✅ Bring a valid government ID
✅ No calculators needed—they provide one
✅ You’ll get a pencil and scratch paper
✅ You'll have 2 hours (plenty of time)
✅ Most questions are straightforward, but don’t rush

Pro Tip: When in doubt, eliminate obviously wrong answers and go with your gut.

Step 5: You Passed! Now What?

First off—congrats, pilot! 🥳 Once you pass:

1. Go back to IACRA and complete your application

2. The TSA will run a background check (it’s automatic)

3. You’ll get a temporary certificate to fly legally

4. Your plastic license will arrive by mail in a few weeks.
   Boom. You’re now a certified commercial drone pilot. Time to put that baby to work!

Bonus Tips: How to Keep It

The Part 107 license doesn’t last forever. Every 24 months, you’ll need to pass a free online renewal exam through the FAA.

Oh, and always remember to:

• Register your drone at FAADroneZone

• Keep your license and drone info handy during jobs

• Fly safe, stay in controlled airspace, and don’t be “that guy” in the news

Final Thoughts: Ready to Take Off?

At Raising Drones, we’re all about helping you rise higher—literally and professionally. Whether you’re starting a drone business, going full-time, or just dipping your toes into the sky, passing the Part 107 exam is your first big win.

Need help with training, gear advice, or want someone to geek out with about FPV tricks and weather charts? You know where to find us.

Fly smart. Fly legal. And most of all—have fun doing what you love.

– Damon Johnson
Founder, Raising Drones