How Long Does It Take to Get a Drone Pilot License?
Quick Answer
2–4 weeks. Earning an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate requires studying for and passing a 60-question knowledge test, which most people can prepare for in 2–4 weeks.
Typical Duration
Quick Answer
Getting an FAA Part 107 drone pilot license takes 2–4 weeks from the start of studying to receiving your certificate. The process involves self-study, passing a knowledge test at an FAA-approved testing center, and waiting for TSA background clearance.
What Is the Part 107 License?
The FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is required for anyone who flies a drone commercially in the United States. This includes real estate photography, aerial surveying, agricultural monitoring, inspections, filmmaking, and any other paid drone work. Recreational flyers do not need Part 107 but must follow separate recreational rules.
Timeline Breakdown
| Step | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Study and preparation | 1–3 weeks |
| Schedule and take the knowledge test | 1–5 days |
| TSA background check processing | 1–2 weeks |
| Receive temporary certificate | Immediate upon approval |
| Receive permanent certificate (mail) | 6–8 weeks |
Study and Preparation (1–3 Weeks)
The Part 107 knowledge test covers the following areas:
- Airspace classification and regulations: Understanding Class B, C, D, E, and G airspace and where drones may legally operate
- Weather and micrometeorology: How wind, temperature, and pressure affect drone operations
- Drone loading and performance: Weight and balance, effects of altitude and temperature on performance
- Emergency procedures: Lost link protocols, equipment malfunctions
- Crew resource management: Communication with visual observers
- Sectional chart reading: Interpreting aeronautical charts and identifying airspace boundaries
Most candidates study 15–25 hours total. Those with prior aviation knowledge may need less time.
Study Resources
Several approaches work well for exam preparation:
- Online courses (Pilot Institute, DARTdrones, Drone Launch Academy): Structured video courses covering all test topics, typically $100–$300
- FAA study materials: The FAA provides free study guides and sample questions
- Practice tests: Multiple free and paid practice exams are available online
- Self-study with textbooks: Budget-friendly but requires more discipline
The Knowledge Test
The test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions. You have 2 hours to complete it and need a score of 70% or higher to pass. The test is administered at FAA Knowledge Testing Centers (often located at flight schools) and costs $175.
The pass rate for first-time test takers is approximately 80–85% for those who use structured study programs.
After Passing the Test
Once you pass the knowledge test:
- Complete FAA application through the IACRA (Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application) system
- TSA background check: This typically takes 1–2 weeks but can occasionally take longer
- Receive temporary certificate: Available for download once the background check clears
- Permanent certificate arrives by mail: Typically 6–8 weeks after approval
Eligibility Requirements
- Be at least 16 years old
- Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English
- Be in physical and mental condition to safely operate a drone
- Pass the aeronautical knowledge test
- Pass TSA background screening
Keeping Your License Current
The Part 107 certificate does not expire, but you must pass a recurrent knowledge test every 24 months to maintain current status. The recurrent test can be completed online for free through the FAA Safety website.
Summary
From start to finish, expect 2–4 weeks to earn your Part 107 drone pilot license. Most of that time is spent studying. The test itself takes a single visit, and the TSA background check adds 1–2 weeks of waiting. It is one of the fastest professional certifications available in aviation.