TL;DR
The Remote Pilot Certificate, also known as FAA Part 107 License, is a certification required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for individuals operating small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS), also known as drones, for commercial purposes.
Once a person obtains a Remote Pilot Certificate, they are allowed to operate an sUAS for commercial purposes.
The FAA requires commercial drone operators to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate to ensure safe and responsible drone operation.
What is a Remote Pilot Certificate/FAA Part 107 License?
The Remote Pilot Certificate, also known as FAA Part 107 License, is a certification required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for individuals operating small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS), also known as drones, for commercial purposes. The Part 107 regulations establish the requirements for operating a commercial drone in the United States.
To obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate, an individual must be at least 16 years old, pass an aeronautical knowledge test at an FAA-approved testing center, and pass a background check conducted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The aeronautical knowledge test covers various topics related to drone operation, such as airspace classification, operating requirements, and weather conditions.
Why Must a Drone Pilot Obtain a Part 107 License?
Once a person obtains a Remote Pilot Certificate, they are allowed to operate an sUAS for commercial purposes. Meaning, drone pilots with a certificate can get paid to operate a drone. In short, if you want to fly your drone pilot outside of being a hobbyist, you must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate. These regulations include operating the drone below 400 feet, maintaining visual line of sight with the drone at all times, and not flying over people or moving vehicles.
What are the Benefits of Obtaining a Part 107 License?
Obtaining a Remote Pilot Certificate or Part 107 License can offer several benefits for those looking to be a pro drone pilot.
Here are some of the key benefits:
Legal compliance: The FAA requires commercial drone operators to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate to ensure safe and responsible drone operation. By obtaining a Part 107 License, you will be compliant with FAA regulations, which can help you avoid legal issues and potential fines.
Business opportunities: Having a Remote Pilot Certificate can open up new business opportunities for you as a drone operator. Many companies require licensed pilots to operate drones for their projects, including real estate, construction, agriculture, and more. For more on how much drone pilots make, check out our blog post.
Professionalism: Obtaining a Part 107 License can demonstrate to potential clients or employers that you are a professional and serious drone operator. It shows that you have gone through the required training and testing to operate drones safely and responsibly.
Expanded capabilities: With a Part 107 License, you are allowed to operate drones for commercial purposes in airspace that would otherwise require a waiver, such as in controlled airspace around airports. This can expand your capabilities as a drone operator and allow you to take on more challenging and lucrative projects.
Insurance coverage: Some insurance companies may require licensed pilots to operate drones for commercial purposes. A Remote Pilot Certificate can make it easier to obtain insurance coverage for your drone operations.
4 Tips for Getting Your Part 107 License Fast
- Study Efficiently: The FAA provides a study guide for the Part 107 exam that outlines the topics covered on the test. When studying, focus on the areas where you need the most improvement. Utilize study aids like flashcards, practice exams, and videos to reinforce your learning.
- Schedule Your Exam in Advance: Once you feel confident about the material, schedule your Part 107 exam. Test centers can fill up quickly, so scheduling your exam early can ensure that you get the testing date and time that works best for you.
- Prepare Your Documentation in Advance: Before you take the Part 107 exam, you will need to provide certain documentation, including proof of identification, your FAA tracking number, and your knowledge test authorization. Prepare these documents in advance so you can focus on the exam itself.
- Take Advantage of Resources: Many resources are available to help you prepare for the Part 107 exam (including Paypixl), including online courses, study guides, and practice exams. Take advantage of these resources to increase your knowledge and confidence before taking the exam.
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