How to Get Drone Pilot License: A Comprehensive Guide
Getting a drone pilot license, also known as a Part 107 remote pilot certification, can open up new opportunities and unlock the door to exciting career paths and recreational fun. In this article, we’ll break down the steps to get your drone pilot license in a detailed and easy-to-follow guide.
Why Get a Drone Pilot License?
Before we dive into the process, it’s essential to understand why getting a drone pilot license is significant. Here are some points to consider:
- With a Part 107 certificate, you can operate commercially, which opens up many job opportunities.
- Operating a drone requires knowledge, skills, and responsibility to ensure safe flight operations, and the license guarantees you are equipped to meet these expectations.
- By obtaining your license, you demonstrate accountability and commitment to the technology and its use.
- The license process also grants you access to exclusive discounts and promotions offered by participating drone manufacturers.
Qualifications and Prerequisites
Before applying for the test, you need to be at least 16 years old and demonstrate proficiency in English. It’s worth noting that there are no specific educational requirements, but having a basic understanding of aviation and regulations is beneficial. Do not confuse the Remote Pilot Certificate with a standard pilot’s license, such as an airline transport certificate.
What You’ll Need to Prepare
Familiarize yourself with these essential topics before taking the test:
- Weather conditions
- Remote pilot certification process
- Airworthiness insurance
- Weather decision-making
- Standard aeronautical knowledge elements
- Air Law
- Weather briefings
- Operations and safety practices
- Regulations regarding airspace restriction
- Aircraft knowledge
Exam Preparation Process
To become a part of the world of civilian drone pilots, you have to pass an aeronautical knowledge exam administered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Here is a step-by-step exam preparation process:
- Study Guides and Books: Use FAA’s Study Materials, pilot training manuals, and aviation books to supplement your review.
- Studying Schedule: Study for at least 16 hours, allowing 9-10 weeks for preparedness.
- Practice Exams: Download FAA’s 2019 FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Knowledge Tests and familiarize yourself with the testing format to gauge your skills.
- Register for Online Exams: Register in advance for FAA’s Online Remot
- Informed Consent: Bring a laptop or tablet loaded with these documents to test day if required.
- Exam Day:
- Arrive at FAA Regional Office Exam Center one hour and 15 minutes before scheduling.
- Present yourself at the Exam Center: provide your passport, original identification, or proof.
Pass the Aeronautical Knowledge Test
Answer 60 multiple-choice test questions within the allotted three hours. There is currently no penalty for incorrect answer choices. Keep in mind that you won’t face any real flying skills examinations.
Receive Your Commercial Drone Pilot Certificate
Log in to FAA’s IACRA to access the application site. Complete, submit your application, pay the Part 107 commercial drone licensing fee, and wait for your certificate to be mailed through the United States Postal System.
Practical Pilot Knowledge
Upon passing, you’ll learn more. The FAA Remote Pilot Commercial Drone Pilot (Part 107) Manual will highlight your understanding:
- Airmanship 101: Manage the ground control station as you go.
- Regulations: Memorize federal aviation regulations like airspace controls.
- Knowledge of Aircraft Components: Airframe, motors, gears, and parts.
4. System Checkpoint: Ensure control of transmitter, receiver and controller with battery checkups.
How to Get Your Drone Flight Experience
Experience matters by flying your aerial drone once you register for a certified flight testing area. There are designated UAV Training facilities where one can be trained by the instructors like a professional commercial pilot who can teach various flying movements and techniques on your designated training area within a supervised environment.
What You should know about UAS?
Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) like drones, multicopters, and drones are in high demand.
Becoming knowledgeable about regulatory compliance enables you gain more trust.
