The FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is required for any commercial drone operation in the United States. That includes real estate photography. The good news? With proper preparation, passing on your first attempt is very achievable.
About the Exam
Let's start with what you're up against:
- Questions: 60 multiple choice
- Time: 2 hours
- Passing score: 70% (42 correct answers)
- Cost: $175 at an FAA-approved testing center
- Valid for: 2 years (then recurrent training required)
Key Topics to Master
The exam covers several areas. Here's where to focus your study time:
1. Airspace (30% of exam)
This is the biggest topic and trips up the most people. You need to understand:
- Class B: Surrounds major airports (LAX, JFK). Generally prohibited without authorization.
- Class C: Medium airports. Requires ATC authorization.
- Class D: Smaller towered airports. Requires ATC authorization.
- Class E: Controlled airspace that isn't B, C, or D. Rules vary by location and altitude.
- Class G: Uncontrolled airspace. Most flexible for drone operations.
You must be able to read sectional charts and identify airspace types, their boundaries, and ceiling/floor altitudes.
2. Weather (20% of exam)
Understanding weather is crucial for safe operations:
- METARs: Aviation weather reports. Learn to decode them.
- TAFs: Terminal forecasts. Know the format and timing.
- Weather minimums: 3 statute miles visibility, 500' below clouds, 2000' horizontal from clouds.
- Density altitude: How temperature and pressure affect aircraft performance.
3. Loading and Performance (15% of exam)
- How weight affects flight performance
- Center of gravity considerations
- Effects of temperature on battery and motor performance
- Maximum takeoff weight limitations
4. Operations (20% of exam)
- Visual line of sight: Must maintain VLOS at all times
- Right of way: Always yield to manned aircraft
- Night operations: Anti-collision lighting requirements
- Flying over people: Categories and restrictions
- Maximum altitude: 400' AGL (higher near structures)
5. Regulations (15% of exam)
- Registration requirements
- Remote ID requirements
- Accident reporting (when required)
- Preflight inspection requirements
- Alcohol and drug rules (8 hours bottle to throttle)
Study Strategy
Week 1-2: Learn the Material
- Read through the FAA's official study guide (free online)
- Watch video courses for visual learners
- Focus on understanding concepts, not memorization
- Take notes on areas that confuse you
Week 3: Sectional Charts
- Download sample sectional charts
- Practice identifying airspace types
- Learn to read airport information
- Understand special use airspace symbols
Week 4: Practice Tests
- Take multiple full-length practice exams
- Review every wrong answer thoroughly
- Aim for consistent 85%+ before scheduling
- Time yourself to build exam stamina
Test Day Tips
- Bring valid ID: Government-issued photo ID required
- Arrive early: Give yourself time to settle in
- Use the full time: Review flagged questions at the end
- Read carefully: Many wrong answers come from misreading
- Trust your preparation: Don't second-guess studied answers
After You Pass
- You'll receive a temporary certificate immediately
- Permanent certificate arrives by mail in 6-8 weeks
- Register your drone with the FAA ($5 for 3 years)
- Get familiar with LAANC for controlled airspace authorization
- Consider drone liability insurance
Study Resources
- FAA Study Guide: Free official resource (start here)
- Sporty's Part 107 Course: Comprehensive video course
- 3DR Study App: Practice questions on your phone
- LensLooper Part 107 Training: Included in our add-on course
The Part 107 exam is passable by anyone willing to put in the study time. Most people spend 15-20 hours preparing over 2-4 weeks. Focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing answers, and you'll walk out certified.