In this Article
In order to fly your drone under the FAA's Small UAS Rule (Part 107), you must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA. This certificate demonstrates that you understand the regulations, operating requirements, and procedures for safely flying drones.
To become a pilot you must:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English
- Be in a physical and mental condition to safely fly a drone
- Pass the initial aeronautical knowledge exam: "Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG)"
Navigating the Process to Become a Drone Pilot:
Step 1: Obtain an FAA Tracking Number (FTN) by creating an Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) profile prior to registering for a knowledge test.
Step 2: Schedule an appointment with a FAA-approved Knowledge Testing Center. Be sure to bring a government-issued photo ID to your test.
Step 3: Pass the initial aeronautical knowledge test: "Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG)".
Knowledge test topic areas include:
- Applicable regulations relating to small unmanned aircraft system rating privileges, limitations, and flight operation
- Airspace classification and operating requirements, and flight restrictions affecting small unmanned aircraft operation
- Aviation weather sources and effects of weather on small unmanned aircraft performance
- Small unmanned aircraft loading and performance
- Emergency procedures
- Crew resource management
- Radio communication procedures
- Determining the performance of small unmanned aircraft
- Physiological effects of drugs and alcohol
- Aeronautical decision-making and judgment
- Airport operations
- Maintenance and preflight inspection procedures
- Operation at night
How do you pass the exam?
There are many youtube videos available that can help you digest all of the information you will need to learn. For example:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_ucCKFJUCU&t=2944s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zB9qzXaQ72s
While videos are certainly helpful, we recommend a class with practice tests.
For example:
https://www.udemy.com/courses/search/?q=faa+part+107&src=sac&kw=107
You can also find practice tests in the Part 107 app available for Android and iOS.