If you're flying a drone for work, whether selling photos or services, you must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Recreational hobby flying does not require a Part 107 license, though different regulations still apply. You can read this article for more.

The FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate allows you to fly drones commercially within specific guidelines, including maximum altitude limits, airspace restrictions, and visual line-of-sight requirements. It’s required for most business or professional drone operations in the U.S.

Yes, even if you hold a Part 61 certificate and a current flight review, you must complete the ALC-451 online course to fly under Part 107. No full new certification is required.

The exam has 60 multiple-choice questions, and you must score at least 70% (42 correct answers) within a 2‑hour time limit to pass.

Most people spend 2-4 weeks studying for the FAA Part 107 test, depending on their prior aviation and drone knowledge. Using a structured study program can reduce prep time and increase your pass rate.

The Part 107 knowledge test fee is $175, paid directly to the testing center (a company contracted with the FAA) when scheduling your exam appointment.

No. For first-time certification, the Part 107 test must be taken in person at an FAA-approved testing center. Only the recurrent test can be completed online.

Part 107 certification lasts 24 months. After that, you renew by completing free recurrent training, replacing the old in-person renewal test.

After passing, log into the IACRA system, complete identity verification, pass the TSA vetting, and then receive your temporary certificate electronically, while the official one arrives by mail. This article walks you through the process.