FAA Part 107 is the federal certification that allows you to legally fly a drone for commercial purposes in the United States. If you plan to earn money flying a drone — real estate photos, inspections, mapping, or events — this Remote Pilot Certificate is the license you need. This complete guide explains what Part 107 covers, who needs it, how to get certified, what it costs, and how to turn it into paid work.
What Part 107 actually is
Part 107 is the set of FAA rules that govern small commercial drone (UAS) operations. To fly any drone weighing under 55 pounds for a business purpose, the pilot must hold a valid Remote Pilot Certificate issued under Part 107. The rules cover operating limits, airspace, weather, and pilot responsibilities — all designed to keep drones and manned aircraft safely separated.
Who needs a Part 107 license?
You need Part 107 any time you fly a drone for work or compensation. That includes:
- Real estate and architectural photography
- Roof, solar, and infrastructure inspections
- Mapping, surveying, and agriculture
- Event and commercial videography
- Any flight where you’re paid or it benefits a business
Flying purely for fun falls under separate recreational rules, but the moment money or a commercial benefit is involved, Part 107 applies.
How to get your Part 107 certificate
The path is straightforward and does not require a manned-pilot license.
Step 1: Study the knowledge areas
The exam covers airspace classification, weather, regulations, loading and performance, and emergency procedures. Many candidates use an online prep course and study for two to four weeks.
Step 2: Register and pass the exam
Schedule the Aeronautical Knowledge Test at an FAA-approved testing center. It’s a multiple-choice exam, and you need 70% to pass.
Step 3: Complete FAA registration
After passing, you complete FAA Form 8710-13 through the IACRA system, undergo a TSA security check, and receive your Remote Pilot Certificate.
Step 4: Register your drone
Drones used commercially must be registered with the FAA, and you’ll mark the registration number on the aircraft.
What does Part 107 cost?
The FAA knowledge test fee is around $175. Optional prep courses range from $100 to $300. Compared to the income potential of commercial drone work, the certification pays for itself quickly.
Key Part 107 rules to remember
- Maximum altitude of 400 feet above ground level (with some exceptions near structures).
- Keep the drone within visual line of sight.
- Fly during daylight or civil twilight with proper lighting.
- Get authorization before flying in controlled airspace near airports.
Get paid gigs with your license
Once you’re certified, the next step is finding clients. Marketing yourself takes time, so many pilots join a platform that delivers nearby jobs automatically. Join the Tomafly pilot network and start receiving paid drone work from clients near you across the U.S. Learn more about how Tomafly works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Part 107 hard to get?
Most people pass the knowledge test after two to four weeks of study. It covers airspace, weather, and regulations, but there is no flight test.
How long is a Part 107 certificate valid?
Your certificate stays valid as long as you complete the FAA’s free online recurrent training to keep your knowledge current.
How much does the Part 107 exam cost?
The FAA knowledge test fee is about $175. Optional prep courses add $100–$300 but can improve your odds of passing the first time.
Can I make money with a Part 107 license?
Yes. Part 107 lets you legally charge for drone services like photography, inspections, and mapping. It’s the foundation of a paid drone business.
Do I need a regular pilot license first?
No. Part 107 is a standalone certificate and does not require any manned-aircraft pilot license.
Already certified? Put your license to work — join Tomafly and get paid drone gigs near you.
