Do I Need a Part 107 Drone License? (Spoiler: Probably Yes)

Flying drones can be a lot of fun, but the FAA doesn’t treat all drone flights the same. Whether you're capturing sunsets for Instagram, monetizing YouTube content, or flying for your local fire department, the rules change depending on your intent and who owns the drone.

So: Do you need a Part 107 license? Let’s find out.

Take the quiz (opens in new window) if you want an instant answer. Or keep reading for a full breakdown by use case.


What is a Part 107 License?

The Part 107 license is a certification issued by the FAA that allows individuals to legally operate drones for commercial purposes in U.S. airspace. This applies to anyone flying a civil aircraft, a drone owned or operated by a private individual or company.

This article covers what's on the Part 107 test.

FAA Drone Use Categories: Public vs. Civil Aircraft

Before we dive into specific use cases, it’s important to know whether your drone is considered a civil aircraft or a public aircraft:

  • Civil Aircraft: Owned or operated by private individuals, companies, or organizations. Part 107 applies.
  • Public Aircraft: Operated by a government agency (e.g., fire, police, local government) for official missions. These operations can be covered under a Certificate of Authorization (COA) instead of Part 107.

If you are a contractor or private pilot flying for a public agency, you’ll still need a Part 107 license unless you’re officially operating under that agency’s COA. Agencies might require government employees to have a Part 107 license - check with your employer.


Common Scenarios and Whether You Need a Part 107 License

1. Just Flying for Fun (Recreational Use)

No Part 107 required

drone flying for fun


If you're flying purely for enjoyment, you can operate under the FAA's recreational drone rules.

You must still:


2. Flying for Fun… But Might Sell the Photos or Videos

Yes, you need a Part 107 license
The FAA considers any sale of drone media to be commercial use. Even one sale puts you into Part 107 territory. You might not be selling it at this time, but if you plan to in the future, you need your Part 107 now.


3. YouTubers / Content Creators Earning from Drone Footage

Yes, Part 107 is required

drone flying for social media


If your channel is monetized (via ads, sponsorships, etc.), and you use drone footage, it’s considered commercial use. YouTube creators have been fined for this!


4. Flying for a Government or Public Agency

drone flying public agency

It depends on the type of aircraft and operator:

  • Agency-Owned Drone + Government Employee: Can fly under a public COA
  • Privately-Owned Drone or Contractor: Must fly under Part 107

If you’re not sure your agency has a COA, assume Part 107 is required.


5. Agricultural Inspections, Mapping, Surveying, Real Estate

Yes, 100% Part 107 territory

drone license for surveying

Any business using drones for operations or services must operate under Part 107 rules.


6. Teaching Drone Classes or Demonstrating in Paid Workshops

Yes

drone license for teaching


If you’re being paid to instruct, demonstrate, or operate drones in any capacity, you need a Part 107 license. It's the operation of the drone for money in this case; selling media is irrelevant.


Why Get Certified?

Other than being required by the FAA and employers utilizing drones, there are several other reasons to get your Part 107 license:

  • Avoid fines
  • Open doors to drone-related income and business
  • Boost your professional credibility
  • Get insured more easily


Ready to Get Certified?

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