FAA Part 107 for Quadcopters: Ultimate Study Guide (2026)
Flying your quadcopter for fun is one thing, but making money with it? That’s where FAA Part 107 comes into play. This special license lets you fly drones for business purposes like taking photos for real estate, filming weddings, or checking farm crops. Getting your Part 107 certificate might seem scary at first, but with the right study plan and practice, you’ll be ready to pass the test and start your drone business adventure.
What is FAA Part 107?
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 107 is the main rulebook for flying drones commercially in the United States. Think of it as your driver’s license, but for quadcopters used to make money.
Before Part 107 existed in 2016, people had to get expensive pilot licenses to fly drones for work. Now, this simpler system makes it easier for regular folks to start drone businesses.
Who Needs Part 107?
You need this certificate if you plan to:
- Take photos or videos for customers
- Inspect roofs, bridges, or buildings
- Help farmers check their crops
- Work with real estate agents
- Fly at events like weddings or sports games
- Any time you get paid to fly your quadcopter
Flying for fun or hobby? You don’t need Part 107. Just register your drone if it weighs more than 0.55 pounds.
Basic Requirements
Getting started is pretty straightforward:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Read, speak, and understand English
- Be physically and mentally able to fly safely
- Pass the Part 107 knowledge test
No pilot experience needed! The FAA designed this program for beginners.
Key Rules You Must Know
Weight and Size Limits
Your quadcopter must weigh less than 55 pounds including everything attached to it (camera, extra batteries, etc.). Most consumer drones like DJI Mini or Mavic series fit this rule easily.
Where You Can Fly
Allowed Areas:
- Most outdoor spaces during daylight
- Up to 400 feet above ground
- Away from airports and restricted zones
Forbidden Zones:
- Over people who aren’t part of your operation
- Near airports without permission
- In national parks
- Above 400 feet (unless near tall structures)
Always check current airspace restrictions before every flight using apps like B4UFLY or AirMap.
Visual Flight Rules
You must always see your quadcopter with your own eyes while flying. No hiding behind trees or buildings! If you can’t see it clearly, bring it back closer.
Using First Person View (FPV) goggles? That’s okay, but you need a helper watching the drone too.
Study Materials and Resources
Official FAA Resources
The FAA provides free study guides that cover everything on the test:
- Remote Pilot Study Guide (AC 107-2A)
- Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge
- Practice tests on the FAA website
Recommended Study Timeline
| Week | Focus Area | Hours | Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Airspace Basics | 8-10 | Learn Class B, C, D airspace rules |
| 2 | Weather Patterns | 6-8 | Study clouds, wind, visibility limits |
| 3 | Flight Operations | 8-10 | Practice chart reading, NOTAMs |
| 4 | Regulations Review | 6-8 | Memorize key Part 107 rules |
| 5 | Practice Tests | 10-12 | Take multiple mock exams |
| 6 | Final Review | 4-6 | Focus on weak areas |
Third-Party Study Options
Many companies offer courses that make learning easier:
- Drone Pilot Ground School – Popular online course
- RemotePilot101 – Free YouTube videos
- UAV Ground School – Comprehensive training
These aren’t required, but they explain tough concepts in simple ways.
Understanding Airspace
Airspace might be the trickiest part of the test, but it’s really important for safe flying.
Class G Airspace
This is the easiest airspace for quadcopter pilots. Most rural areas fall into Class G, where you can fly up to 400 feet without special permission.
Controlled Airspace (Class B, C, D)
These areas surround airports and need special approval through LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability). The good news? Many approvals happen instantly through apps.
Special Use Airspace
Some areas are completely off-limits:
- Military zones
- National security areas
- Temporary flight restrictions
Always check before flying anywhere new!
Weather Knowledge
Weather affects quadcopters more than bigger aircraft. Small drones get pushed around easily by wind and rain.
Wind Limits
Most consumer quadcopters handle winds up to 20-25 mph, but check your specific model. Flying in strong wind drains batteries faster and makes control harder.
Visibility Requirements
You need at least 3 miles of visibility to fly legally. Fog, heavy rain, or dust storms mean no flying.
Cloud Clearances
Stay 500 feet below clouds and 2,000 feet horizontally away from them. This rule prevents accidents with manned aircraft.
Test Day Preparation
What to Expect
The Part 107 test has 60 multiple choice questions. You need 70% or better to pass (42 correct answers). The test takes up to 2 hours, but most people finish in 60-90 minutes.
Test Topics Breakdown
- Airspace and airports: 25-30%
- Weather: 20-25%
- Flight operations: 20-25%
- Regulations: 15-20%
- Performance and loading: 10-15%
Scheduling Your Test
Tests happen at PSI testing centers around the country. Schedule online at psi-services.com. The test costs $175.
Bring two forms of ID and arrive 30 minutes early.
After You Pass
Getting Your Certificate
The FAA mails your temporary certificate right after you pass. Your official plastic certificate arrives in 6-8 weeks.
Staying Current
Your Part 107 certificate lasts 2 years. To renew it, you can either:
- Take the test again, or
- Complete online recurrent training (easier option!)
Starting Your Business
Now comes the fun part! You can legally offer drone services like:
- Real estate photography
- Construction site monitoring
- Wedding videography
- Agricultural surveys
- Infrastructure inspections
Remember to get proper insurance before taking on commercial jobs. Most homeowner policies don’t cover business activities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
During Study
- Don’t just memorize answers – understand the concepts
- Practice reading sectional charts until it becomes natural
- Focus extra time on your weak subjects
On Test Day
- Read questions carefully (watch for words like “NOT” or “EXCEPT”)
- Use the process of elimination for tough questions
- Don’t overthink simple questions
After Getting Licensed
- Always file flight plans in controlled airspace
- Keep your certificate with you while flying
- Update your drone registration every 3 years
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How hard is the Part 107 test? A: Most people find it challenging but manageable with proper study. The pass rate is around 90% for people who prepare seriously.
Q: Can I fly at night with Part 107? A: Yes, but you need anti-collision lights that can be seen for 3 miles. Night flying requires extra caution.
Q: Do I need insurance? A: The FAA doesn’t require it, but most businesses and clients will expect you to have coverage.
Q: Can I fly over people now? A: New rules allow limited flights over people, but your drone needs special certification or you need specific waivers.
Q: What if I fail the test? A: You can retake it after 14 days. Many people pass on their second try after focusing on problem areas.
Q: How much money can I make? A: Drone pilot earnings vary widely. Part-time pilots might make $200-500 per month, while full-time professionals can earn $50,000+ annually.
Q: Do I need to register my drone separately? A: Yes, all drones over 0.55 pounds need FAA registration, even with Part 107. Registration costs $5 and lasts 3 years.
Getting your FAA Part 107 certificate opens up exciting opportunities in the growing drone industry. With solid preparation and practice, you’ll join thousands of licensed pilots making money with their quadcopters. The sky’s the limit!
