The FAA’s Part 107 exam is pretty hard, but not impossible to pass. It does require studying and preparation. Do not attempt to try and write the Part 107 knowledge test without studying because you will fail and waste your time and money.
That said, preparing for the Part 107 exam isn’t all that hard. Depending on how much time you put in every day, you can start about a week or two beforehand and be ready to ace this test on the day.
How to Book the Part 107 Exam
In order to book take your test and get your drone pilot’s license, you’ll need to find an FAA-approved knowledge testing center in your area. Take a look at this FAA website to find a test center near you. Then head over to the IACRA website to create a profile and register for your test.
At the time of writing, the fee to take the Part 107 exam is $175. Finally, if you passed the test, then you need to head back to the IACRA website to fill in Form 8710-13.
How to Study for the Part 107 Test
Before jumping right in, it’s important to familiarize yourself with all of the topics covered in the Part 107 exam test. These include, among other things:
- Weather effects and patterns and how they relate to UAS flying
- FAA rules and regulations
- Emergency procedures
- UAS flight limitations and operations
- Airspace operations
The FAA does provide a free Part 107 Small UAS Initial (ALC-451) online training course. This covers most of the topics you’ll need to know about when taking the test. But, you’ll want to use the (also free) FAA study guides as well. Here’s where to get them:
- https://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/acs/media/uas_acs.pdf
- https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/media/remote_pilot_study_guide.pdf
- https://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/test_questions/media/uag_sample_exam.pdf
In addition to all of that, you also have the option to take a paid online course offered by a flight school. There are several available and they differ in price. While these do cost money, a lot of people go for that option instead because these courses tend to be better structured and easier to digest than the FAA’s guides. Although they’re free, the official guides are basically dozens of pages filled with an information dump.
Part 107 Test Tips
- It is multiple choice.
- The test questions can be worded in a very roundabout way intended to confuse you. Make sure to read every question carefully before answering.
- The test is taken electronically but some parts, especially the charts, are very difficult to read. So be sure to bring and wear your glasses if you need to.
- Some of the answers you need can be found on the charts in the test.
PS: Don’t forget to register your drone with the FAA. Be sure to use the real FAA DroneZone website, as there are scam sites that will try to take your money.
