Imagine this: You’re filming amazing 4K aerial videos for a fancy real estate ad. Your drone pilots license isn’t just a certificate—it’s your ticket to making stunning drone videos that impress clients. Whether you’re filming ads or exciting event videos, being a certified drone pilot unlocks awesome chances in video production.
Pro Tip: Passing the FAA Part 107 test lets you legally fly drones for work. This gives you an advantage in the booming commercial drone industry.
Key Takeaways
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A Part 107 drone license is needed to fly drones for work. It helps you get cool jobs like making videos.
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Knowing FAA rules is very important. Some rules are flying under 400 feet, keeping the drone in sight, and learning about airspace for safe flying.
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Studying for the FAA test is important. Learn about weather, airspace, and safety. Use FAA guides and practice tests to feel ready.
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Renew your drone license every two years. Taking the online renewal course helps you stay updated on FAA rules and follow them.
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Think about getting drone insurance. It protects you and your clients from surprise costs, especially for big jobs like real estate videos.
Step 1 – Learn FAA Rules & Part 107 Drone License
Imagine this: You’re filming amazing 4K aerial views for a client. Your part 107 drone license isn’t just paper—it’s your pass to fly drones legally for work. But before flying, you must know the FAA rules that keep skies safe.
What a drone pilot license means under Part 107
The part 107 license is your FAA approval to use drones for business. It’s more than passing a test—it’s about being a responsible Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC). You’re in charge of flights, following FAA rules to stay safe.
Here’s what you need to do:
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Keep your license with you and show it if asked.
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Report accidents that hurt people or damage property.
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Breaking rules can mean big fines or even legal trouble.
Pro Tip: On our last Nitro Media Group shoot, having a part 107 license let us film amazing aerial shots for a luxury real estate ad. Without it, we couldn’t legally capture those scenes.
Important rules: height, sight, and airspace
Flying drones isn’t just fun—it’s about following rules. Here are the basics:
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Altitude: Stay below 400 feet unless near a tall building.
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Line-of-sight: Always see your drone with your own eyes. Don’t rely only on screens!
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Airspace: Fly in Class G airspace unless you get FAA permission
Knowing these rules isn’t just for passing tests—it’s for safe flights. Following them makes you more than a drone user. It makes you a trusted pro in video production.
Step 2 – Do You Need a Drone Pilot License?
Imagine this: You’re filming amazing aerial views for a client’s video. To fly your drone legally for work, you need a drone pilots license. But is it always required? Let’s find out.
Commercial vs. recreational flying
The FAA has rules about when a license is needed. It depends on how you use your drone. Here’s a simple comparison:
| Flying Type | What You Need |
|---|---|
| Commercial | Follow FAA Part 107 rules and get a Remote Pilot Certificate |
| Recreational | No license needed if under Section 44809 exception |
If you’re flying for fun, like taking nature photos or practicing, no license is needed. But if it’s for work—like filming ads or events—you must follow Part 107 rules. This means passing the FAA test and getting your Remote Pilot Certificate.
Pro Tip: Even for fun flying, knowing FAA rules helps avoid trouble. It’s also good practice for when you go professional!
Why get a drone pilot license?
Having a drone pilots license brings many benefits. Here’s why it’s a smart move:
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Legal compliance: A Remote Pilot Certificate shows you meet FAA rules. It keeps your flights legal.
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Career growth: Certified drone pilots are in high demand. Jobs are expected to grow by 51.1% in five years. Industries like farming, construction, and rescue services are hiring.
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Better pay: Licensed drone pilots earn $79,000 to $85,000 yearly. Some even make $98,880 a year, or $42 an hour.
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Professional trust: Clients prefer licensed pilots. It shows you care about safety and quality, helping you get more jobs.
Pro Tip: At Nitro Media Group, our certified pilots have landed big projects. From real estate ads to event videos, a license gives us an edge.
Whether flying for fun or work, knowing the rules is important. If you want to succeed in video production, a drone pilot license is essential.
Step 3 – Check Eligibility for a Part 107 License
Imagine this: You’re filming amazing aerial shots for a client’s ad. Your Part 107 drone license lets you legally fly drones for work. Before taking the FAA test, check if you meet the rules. Let’s go over them.
Age and English skills
You must be 16 years old to get a Part 107 license. This shows you’re ready for the responsibility of flying drones for business. If you’re younger, start learning now to prepare for the future.
You also need to know English well. You must read, write, speak, and understand it. This helps you follow FAA rules, talk during flights, and handle emergencies. If English isn’t your first language, there are tools to help you improve.
Pro Tip: On our last Nitro Media Group shoot, good communication helped us work with the ground team. Speaking clearly makes drone filming easier.
Citizenship and legal documents
The FAA asks for proof you live in the U.S. legally or are a citizen. If you’re not a citizen, show papers proving your legal status. Missing or old documents can slow down your application.
Here’s how paperwork issues have affected others:
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In Kansas, over 30,000 people couldn’t register due to missing proof.
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Arizona rules stopped nearly 250,000 residents from voting federally.
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33% of married women lack papers after changing their last name.
For drone pilots, these examples show why updated documents matter. If you’re unsure about yours, check FAA rules to avoid problems.
Pro Tip: Double-check your papers before applying. This easy step saves time and avoids delays.
Meeting these rules is the first step to becoming a certified drone pilot. Once approved, you can start making amazing aerial videos and using drones for creative projects.
Step 4 – Get Ready for the FAA Drone License Test
Imagine this: You’re filming amazing aerial shots for a client’s ad. Your drone pilot license allows you to fly legally, but passing the FAA test is the first step. Studying for the test doesn’t have to be hard. With good tools and focus on key topics, you can pass it easily.
Key topics: weather, airspace, safety
The FAA test checks your knowledge for safe drone flying. Focus on these important areas:
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Weather and micrometeorology: Learn how wind, rain, and temperature affect drones. Knowing weather helps you plan flights and avoid problems.
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Airspace types: Understand where drones can fly legally. Study maps to know controlled and uncontrolled airspace. This is important near airports or cities.
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Drone safety: Learn FAA rules, emergency steps, and pre-flight checks. Safety isn’t just for the test—it protects your drone and team.
Many FAA-approved classes teach these topics. Experienced pilots share tips, making learning fun and useful.
Pro Tip: On a Nitro Media Group project, knowing airspace rules let us film safely in a busy city area.
Best tools: FAA guides, online classes, practice tests
Studying for the FAA test is easier with the right help. Use these tools to prepare:
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FAA study guides: These guides explain rules, weather, and more. They’re a great place to start.
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Online classes: Many programs teach future drone pilots. They include practice tests, real examples, and interactive lessons. Some have a 99% pass rate!
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Practice tests: Try test questions to feel ready for the real exam. Some courses offer over 400 questions to practice.
Classroom learning is another option. You can ask teachers questions and stay focused. Many people succeed more in a classroom than studying alone.
Pro Tip: Take the FAA test soon after finishing a course. This keeps the info fresh and helps you avoid delays.
Whether you study alone or with a teacher, these tools will help you pass the FAA drone test. You’ll be ready to improve your video skills and fly drones like a pro.
Step 5 – Schedule and Take the Part 107 Drone License Test
Picture this: You’re ready to film amazing aerial shots for a client. Your drone pilot license is the key to flying drones legally for work. But first, you need to pass the FAA Part 107 test. Let’s go through the steps together.
Getting an FAA Tracking Number (FTN)
Before scheduling your test, you’ll need an FAA Tracking Number (FTN). This number is important for all Part 107 applicants. Here’s how to get it:
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Sign up on the Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) website.
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After registering, you’ll receive your FTN.
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The FTN replaces the old Applicant ID on your test report.
Pro Tip: Don’t wait until the last minute to create your IACRA account. On a Nitro Media Group project, having our FTN ready saved us time and kept us focused on filming.
Choosing a test center and booking your exam
The FAA has many test centers across the U.S., so finding one nearby is simple. Here are some examples:
| Test Site Name | Location | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska Center for Unmanned Aircraft Systems | AK | Specializes in drone testing and research |
| Northern Plains UAS Test Site | ND | Focuses on drone development and research |
| Texas A&M University Corpus Christi Research | TX | Offers drone education and research |
Once you pick a center, schedule your test on the FAA’s website. Choose a date that gives you enough time to study but keeps your momentum strong.
Pro Tip: If you have a project coming up, plan your test early. This way, you’ll be certified and ready to film stunning drone footage without delays.
What happens on test day
Test day is your chance to show what you’ve learned and earn your part 107 license. Here’s what to expect:
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Arrive early with a valid photo ID.
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The test has 60 multiple-choice questions about airspace, weather, and safety.
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You’ll have two hours to finish, so stay calm and manage your time.
Most people pass the Part 107 test. In 2021, 87.63% of test-takers passed with an average score of 81.2%.
| Year | Candidates | Pass Rate | Average Score | Failures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 53,681 | 87.63% | 81.2% | 6,641 |
| 2020 | 39,455 | 93.36% | 83.56% | 2,620 |
Pro Tip: Stay confident and focused on test day. Passing this test is a big step toward flying drones for work and creating amazing aerial videos.
Step 6 – Submit Your Application & Get Certified
Imagine this: You’ve finished an amazing aerial video for a client. Your drone pilot license made it possible. Now, it’s time to complete your certification. Follow these simple steps.
Filling Out FAA Form 8710-13
After passing the Part 107 test, fill out FAA Form 8710-13. This form is needed for your remote pilot certificate. Here’s how to do it:
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Log in to the IACRA website.
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Click “Start New Application” and pick “Remote Pilot Certificate.”
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Add your test ID and check your details.
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Submit the form for approval.
Pro Tip: Check your info carefully before sending. Mistakes can slow things down.
TSA Background Check
After submitting, the TSA will review your background. This step is fast and ensures you meet safety rules:
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They check for any security concerns.
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If you don’t pass, you can’t get certified.
Pro Tip: Watch your email for updates. The FAA may ask for more details.
Temporary and Permanent Certificates
Once approved, you’ll get a temporary certificate while waiting for the permanent one. Here’s the timeline:
| Event | Timeframe | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Test Passed | Download your temporary certificate | |
| Temporary Validity | 120 days | Use it while waiting for the hard card |
| Permanent Card | 7 weeks | Hard card mailed after certificate number |
Pro Tip: Download your temporary certificate right away. You can start working on projects like filming drone videos immediately.
By finishing these steps, you’ll officially be a certified drone pilot. With your certification, you can explore exciting jobs in aerial video production and more.
Step 7 – Keep Your Drone Pilot License Active
Imagine this: You’re filming stunning aerial shots for a client’s ad. Your drone pilot license makes it possible. But keeping your license isn’t a one-time task. To fly legally, you must renew it and follow FAA rules.
Renewing every 24 months
Every two years, you need to renew your remote pilot certificate. The FAA has made this process simple and free.
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Take the online Part 107 renewal course without paying the old $160 fee.
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Complete the course anywhere—no need to visit a test center.
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Learn updated rules and refresh your drone knowledge.
This renewal process keeps you ready for new challenges. It also helps you stay confident when filming tricky aerial shots for projects.
Pro Tip: Finish your renewal training a few weeks before your license expires. This avoids delays in taking on drone jobs.
| Evidence | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Training covers new FAA rules | Keeps you updated and legal. |
| Skills fade over time | Regular training keeps you sharp. |
| Online courses adapt to changes | Ensures you stay compliant. |
Logging flights and following FAA rules
Keeping a record of your drone flights is very important. It helps you stay organized and follow FAA rules. Here’s why:
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Show your experience: Clients like pilots with proof of skills. A flight log builds trust.
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Be ready for checks: The FAA might ask for your flight records. A log keeps you prepared.
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Improve your flying: Reviewing your logs helps you find ways to get better.
Pro Tip: Use a flight log app to track hours, places, and notes. It’s quick, neat, and great for busy schedules.
By renewing your license and staying compliant, you’ll keep getting amazing drone jobs. Whether filming real estate ads or event videos, staying certified ensures you’re always ready to succeed.
Bonus Tips for Drone Pilots
Imagine this: You’re filming stunning 4K aerial views for a client’s ad. Your drone pilot license not only allows this but also ensures you follow the law. To stay ahead in video production, here are some tips to improve your drone skills.
Basics of drone insurance
Flying drones can be risky. Even skilled pilots face accidents. Drone insurance helps protect you, your gear, and your clients from unexpected costs.
Why insurance matters:
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Drone incidents increased by 130% in 2022, with 223 cases in November.
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The global drone insurance market will grow from $1.44 billion in 2024 to $1.57 billion in 2025.
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Commercial drone use is expected to rise by 40% by 2030, making insurance even more important.
Pro Tip: Get insurance that covers both liability and equipment damage. This is crucial for big projects like real estate ads or corporate videos.
Keeping up with FAA rules
FAA rules change to match new technology and safety needs. Staying updated helps you avoid fines and keep your remote pilot certificate active.
| Key Point | Description |
|---|---|
| Certification Requirement | Be at least 16 years old with a remote pilot certificate. |
| Knowledge Test | Passing the FAA test is required for certification. |
| Ongoing Updates | FAA rules change often, so staying informed is necessary. |
Regular training keeps you sharp and compliant. Knowing new rules also protects you from penalties.
Pro Tip: Save the FAA’s drone page and sign up for updates. This way, you’ll always know about rule changes that could affect your work.
Career options for certified drone pilots
A drone pilot license opens doors to exciting jobs in video production and other fields. Certified pilots are in demand, and opportunities are growing.
What to expect:
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Drone pilots earn about $83,000 yearly on average.
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Freelancers can make $35 to $150 per hour, depending on the job.
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Full-time pilots in industries like film can earn up to $100,000 annually.
| Experience Level | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $42,000 |
| Experienced | $88,000 |
| Film and TV | Up to $100,000 |
| Agriculture | $43,000 – $53,000 |
Pro Tip: Focus on a niche like aerial videos or real estate ads. Share your work on platforms like YouTube to attract high-paying clients.
By insuring your drone, staying updated on FAA rules, and exploring career paths, you can succeed as a certified drone pilot in video production.
Imagine this: You’re filming amazing aerial views for a client’s ad. Your drone pilot license isn’t just a document—it’s your key to working professionally. Getting certified is easier than it seems. By following simple steps, you’ll learn FAA rules, pass the Part 107 test, and legally fly drones for work.
Start now. Whether you want to create stunning drone videos or boost your career, becoming a certified drone pilot is your first step.
FAQ
Can I use my Part 107 license for paid drone work?
Yes! With a Part 107 license, you can legally fly drones for jobs like video production. It’s required for filming ads, events, or real estate videos. Without this license, you can’t earn money from drone flying.
How long does it take to get a drone license?
It takes about 6–8 weeks. After passing the FAA test, you’ll apply and go through a TSA background check. Once approved, you’ll get a temporary certificate to start working while waiting for your permanent license.
Do I need a license to fly drones for fun?
No, a license isn’t needed for recreational flying. But you must follow FAA rules, like staying under 400 feet and avoiding restricted areas. If you want to get paid for drone work, you’ll need a Part 107 license.
How much does a Part 107 license cost?
The FAA test costs $175. You might also spend money on study guides or training courses. While it’s an investment, the license helps you earn money in video production, making it worth the cost.
How often do I need to renew my license?
You must renew your Part 107 license every two years. The renewal is free and done online through a training course. Keeping your license updated ensures you can keep working legally in video production.
Pro Tip: Set a reminder for your renewal date so you don’t miss it!
