Key Benefits of Having a Drone Pilot License and How to Get One

Interested in becoming a licensed drone pilot? You probably want to know all about getting a Part 107 Drone License. From the basics to the perks of having the license, we’ve got you covered.

Find out why flying commercially, getting permission to fly over people and vehicles, and flying in controlled airspace are all in your favor. Learn more about the advantages of having a Part 107 license, like eligibility to fly for pay, and increased safety and confidence.

Need help getting your license? We’ll walk you through the certification process and offer exam prep resources. Whether you’re thinking of turning your drone hobby into a career or just want to up your piloting game, this article will give you the scoop.

Part 107 Drone License Explained

The Part 107 Drone License is a certification that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States issues to let you legally operate drones for commercial purposes.

When you get this license, it shows that you’re following FAA rules and keeping things safe while using drones for business. To get the Part 107 license, you need to pass a knowledge test that covers stuff like airspace rules, weather conditions, and how to handle emergencies.

By having this license, you’re proving that you take your job seriously and act responsibly in the fast-growing drone industry. To get the Part 107 license, you have to apply, pass the knowledge test, and meet other FAA guidelines to make sure you’re safely and legally using drones for commercial reasons.

Understanding the Basics

To dive into the realm of Part 107 drone licensing, you need to first wrap your head around the fundamental rules, regulations, and guidelines laid out by the FAA regarding drone operations in controlled airspace and under specific conditions.

This means you’ve got to understand the various airspace restrictions that determine where drones can and can’t soar. For example, drones usually can’t buzz around near airports or hover over crowds of people for safety purposes.

You’ve also got operational limitations to stick to, like keeping your eyes on the drone at all times, following the speed and altitude rules, and getting the green light to fly in restricted airspace zones. Safety is key here, so make sure to do pre-flight checks, confirm your drone is good to go, and always give way to manned aircraft.

Benefits of Obtaining a Part 107 License

Acquiring a Part 107 license can open up a world of possibilities for you in the drone industry. It can help you grow your career, develop professionally, and give you access to specialized certifications that can expand your drone piloting skills.

When you have a Part 107 license, it not only makes you more credible but also boosts your job opportunities. Many companies now require licensed drone pilots for different roles, especially with the increasing demand for skilled operators in industries like agriculture, construction, real estate, and cinematography.

With a commercial drone license, you can even pursue specialized certifications in areas like thermal imaging, aerial mapping, and inspection. This not only enhances your expertise but also increases your value in the market as a drone pilot.

Advantages of Having a Part 107 License

Earning a Part 107 license gives you a ton of perks. It grants you the legal go-ahead to fly drones for commercial purposes, making sure you follow all safety rules and leveling up the professionalism and credibility of your drone business.

With a Part 107 license, a whole new world of money-making opportunities opens up for you. You can cash in on your drone flying skills in industries like real estate, photography, agriculture, and more.

Just stick to the FAA’s strict guidelines as a licensed commercial drone pilot. This way, you can ensure safe and responsible drone operation, cutting down the chances of accidents. Not only does this keep the public and property safe, but it also protects your reputation as a skilled and compliant professional in the drone game.

Ability to Fly Commercially

The primary advantage of obtaining a Part 107 license is the legal authorization it provides for you to operate drones commercially, opening up a myriad of opportunities within the commercial drone industry.

With a Part 107 license, you can engage in a wide range of commercial drone operations, such as aerial photography, agriculture monitoring, infrastructure inspection, surveying, cinematography, and search and rescue missions. The demand for skilled drone pilots in various industries like construction, real estate, agriculture, and filmmaking is constantly growing, creating lucrative career paths for licensed drone operators.

Whether it’s photography, surveys, inspections, or other industries, you can start earning some cash with your drone skills. It’s not just about expanding your professional opportunities, but also turning your drone flying passion into a money-making gig.

To ensure safety and compliance, your commercial drone flights are subject to strict regulatory requirements set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), including adherence to airspace restrictions, operational limitations, and maintenance standards.

Permission to Fly Over People and Vehicles

On April 21, 2021, the FAA enacted a rule called The Operations Over People rule. This rule allows drone pilots who are operating under Part 107 to fly drones over people, at night as well as above moving vehicles without the need of a waiver provided they adhere to the rule’s specified requirements.

For night flights in controlled airspace below 400 feet, it is still necessary to get airspace authorizations.

You will need to apply for a Part 107 Waiver if your drone flight does not comply with these rules. The waiver process involves filling out a waiver application through the FAA website and doing some safety checks to lower the chances of accidents that could harm people or property. As a drone pilot, you must show that you know safety protocols inside-out and can handle emergencies. This is crucial for making sure your drone flights in busy areas are safe and responsible.

The rules for flying over people and vehicles stress the importance of keeping a safe distance, respecting privacy, and following local airspace restrictions. By sticking to these regulations, you not only enhance safety but also build trust in drone technology among the public.

Authorization to Fly in Controlled Airspace

Commercial drone pilots must obtain airspace authorization through the Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) when flying in controlled airspace. LAANC facilitates real-time processing of airspace authorizations below 400 feet, allowing pilots to quickly and efficiently get the necessary permissions.

This system ensures that drone operations comply with FAA regulations, enhancing safety and coordination with manned aircraft. By using LAANC, commercial drone pilots can access controlled airspace more conveniently, streamlining their operations and minimizing delays in their flight plans.

This authorization is key because navigating controlled airspace throws a bunch of challenges your way that require a good dose of responsibility and awareness. Knowing the ins and outs of airspace classes, altitudes, and restrictions is crucial for steering clear of potential dangers and playing nice with other airspace users.

How to Obtain a Part 107 License

When you’re looking to get your hands on that Part 107 license, you’ve got to follow some specific steps. That means getting ready for the exam, getting yourself registered, and making sure you’re all set with the FAA requirements to obtain that Remote Pilot Certificate.

To start your journey toward getting that Part 107 license, you have to hop onto the FAA’s Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) website. Here you will create an account with IACRA and get an FAA tracking number (FTN).

Once you have your FTN number, you will be able to schedule a test date for the Part 107 exam.

For more detailed information on applying for your Drone License, click through here to How Do I Become a Drone Pilot.

The next big step on your checklist is getting ready for the Part 107 knowledge test. This test covers everything from airspace classifications to weather effects, emergency procedures, and even aviation regulations. You will need to be familiar with and understand the FAA’s Part 107 regulations. These rules are like the playbook for flying drones commercially, so it’s essential to know them inside and out.

So, buckle up and get ready to hit those books!.

Resources for Exam Preparation

To prepare for the Part 107 exam, you need to tap into various educational resources like online courses, study guides, practice exams, and FAA-certified instructors. This mix will help you get fully ready for the exam and increase your chances of acing it.

An online Part 107 test prep course like Drone Pilot Ground School includes all of those study resources and will provide you with structured learning that aligns with the exam content, interactive lessons and practical examples to make studying engaging. There are also study guides that break down tricky topics into manageable chunks, making it easier to remember and understand them.

Practice exams are key for getting you used to the test setup, so you’re familiar with the question formats and time limits. And don’t forget about the expert advice from FAA-certified instructors – they provide personalized help to clarify concepts and answer any questions you have, making sure you’re well-prepped. By using all these resources together, you’ll set yourself up for success on the exam and be ready to tackle it with confidence.

We’ve put together a list of the best online Part 107 exam prep courses in the industry. All of the courses have great reviews, reputations, pricing and customer service. Our top choice out of all of them is Drone Pilot Ground School, because of their 3,500 + 5-Star Reviews and 99% pass rate.

Then comes the big moment – the certification exam by the FAA. Show them you know your stuff on drone rules, safety measures, and how to operate smoothly. Pass that test, and you can apply for your Remote Pilot Certificate. It’s like your golden ticket to legally fly drones for business under the Part 107 rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key benefits of having a drone pilot license?

Having a drone pilot license allows you to legally fly drones for commercial purposes, giving you access to a wide range of job opportunities.  Additionally, having a Part 107 license demonstrates your knowledge and proficiency in operating drones, which can increase your credibility and trustworthiness in the industry.

What jobs can I get with a drone pilot license?

With a drone pilot license, you can pursue a career in aerial photography and videography, aerial surveying and mapping, infrastructure inspection, search and rescue operations, and more. Many industries, such as agriculture, construction, real estate, and media, are utilizing drones for various purposes, creating a demand for licensed drone pilots.

How can I obtain a drone pilot license?

To obtain a drone pilot license, you must pass the FAA Part 107 exam, which tests your knowledge on aeronautical concepts, airspace regulations, and drone operations. You can prepare for the exam by enrolling in a Part 107 exam prep course, such as Drone Pilot Ground School, which provides comprehensive study materials and practice tests to help you pass the exam with confidence.

Do I need any prior experience to get a drone pilot license?

No, you do not need any prior experience to obtain a drone pilot license. However, it is recommended to have some basic knowledge and experience in flying drones before taking the Part 107 exam. This can be gained through self-study or a beginner drone training course.

Is there an age limit for obtaining a drone pilot license?

Yes, you must be at least 16 years old to hold a remote pilot certificate, which is required to fly drones commercially. If you are under 16, you can still fly drones for recreational purposes, but you must follow the FAA’s guidelines and regulations.

How long does a drone pilot license last and do I need to renew it?

A drone pilot license is valid for two years from the date of issue. To continue flying drones commercially, you must renew your license by passing a free online Part 107 Small UAS Recurrent training course (ALC-677) every 24 months. This ensures that you stay updated with any changes to the regulations and maintain your knowledge and proficiency as a licensed drone pilot.