Part 107: Your Complete Guide to the FAA’s Drone Certification
For drone operators looking to fly commercially in the United States, understanding and passing the Part 107 certification is essential. As an Australian company flying under the Part 107 drone license, Flying Glass has firsthand experience with what it takes to operate legally and professionally under Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines. This guide is designed to answer all your questions, from “What is the FAA Part 107?” to “How long is a 107 good for?” – and everything in between.
What Is the FAA Part 107?
The FAA’s Part 107 refers to a set of regulations that govern the commercial use of drones in the United States. Introduced in 2016, these rules allow drone pilots to operate small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for non-recreational purposes, provided they pass an aeronautical knowledge test and hold a Remote Pilot Certificate. If you’re flying a drone for anything beyond personal use – whether for aerial cinematography, agriculture, surveying, or real estate – you need this certification.
Who Needs a Part 107 Drone License?
If you’re conducting any sort of commercial drone work in the U.S., you are legally required to obtain a Part 107 drone license. Even if you’re a foreign national (like us!), you can still apply. Flying Glass took our Part 107 test in Hawaii, and we were able to complete all the requirements without issue. Australians are eligible to take the test as long as they have a valid U.S. mailing address, such as that of a local contact, friend, or hotel, to receive their certificate.
However, for recreational use in the U.S., drone pilots must complete the TRUST test instead. This is mandatory for hobbyists, and it’s quick, easy, and free to complete online.
Part 107 Test: Format, Cost and Study Requirements
The Part 107 test – also known as the Aeronautical Knowledge Test – is a 60-question multiple-choice exam administered at FAA-approved knowledge testing centres. Questions cover topics like airspace classifications, weather, regulations, emergency procedures, and more. You’ll have 2 hours to complete the test.
The Part 107 cost is approximately USD $175 (subject to change), paid to the testing centre at the time of booking. Some operators also invest in a Part 107 course to prepare for the exam, with prices ranging from free online resources to $200+ structured programs including a Part 107 study guide and practice tests.
How Difficult Is the Part 107 Test?
This depends on your background. If you’re already familiar with aviation concepts, you may find the material intuitive. But for most new drone pilots, some preparation is essential. On average, people spend 15–20 hours studying. So, if you’re wondering “How long does it take to study for Part 107?” – that’s your ballpark.
You can use a Part 107 practice test to gauge your readiness. Many of these tests simulate real exam conditions, allowing you to review FAA-style questions before sitting for the real thing.
What Is the Average Score on the Part 107 Test?
Most test-takers perform well. The average score is around 84%, and the minimum passing score is 70%. If you’re asking “How many people pass the Part 107?” – you’ll be relieved to know that the pass rate is roughly 87%.
You’re allowed to miss up to 18 questions out of 60. So if you’ve been asking “How many questions can I miss on the Part 107 test?” – the answer is 18. Any more, and you’ll need to retake it after 14 days (and repay the fee).
How Long Is a Part 107 Good For?
Your certification is valid for two years. To maintain your status, you must pass a recurrent knowledge test before the expiry date. The good news? The recurrent test is free and can now be taken online, with no need to visit a testing centre again.
What Happens If You Don’t Have a Part 107?
Operating commercially without a Part 107 drone license can result in serious consequences, including fines and potential criminal penalties. You may also void your insurance and risk the reputation of your business. For content creators, real estate agents, or any drone operators using footage for profit, staying compliant is not optional – it’s essential.
How Many Part 107 Pilots Are There?
As of 2025, the FAA reports over 300,000 active certified Part 107 remote pilots in the United States. That number continues to grow, reflecting the booming demand for drone services across multiple industries. It’s never been more important to stand out with experience, a strong portfolio, and FAA credentials – like the ones featured in our showreel.
Part 107 vs TRUST: Which Do You Need?
To summarise:
- TRUST: Required for all recreational flyers in the U.S. (regardless of nationality).
- Part 107: Required for anyone conducting drone operations for business, government, or paid work.
So yes, Australians can take the Part 107 – even without U.S. residency. We did, and it allows us to operate legally when filming in America.
Part 107 Drone License Cost Breakdown
The typical Part 107 drone license cost includes:
- FAA Knowledge Test: USD $175
- Study Material or Course (optional): USD $0–$250+
- Time investment: 15–25 hours
Compare this to the risks of flying commercially without a license, and the investment makes complete sense for any serious drone operator.
Part 107 Study Guide and Resources
While you can buy formal study courses, there are excellent free materials too. A comprehensive Part 107 study guide should include airspace maps, sample questions, weather interpretation, and FAA regulations. Combine that with a few Part 107 practice tests and you’ll be well-prepared for success.
We also recommend checking out our international drone law guide to stay compliant wherever you’re flying around the world.
Why We Took the Part 107 as Australians
As an Australian drone company focused on high-end cinematography, Flying Glass frequently travels to the United States for film and TV projects. Having the Part 107 drone license means we can legally and confidently operate across the U.S. without delay. We took our test in Hawaii – an FAA-approved centre was nearby, and the process was seamless.
Holding the certification also helps us stand out to international clients, as it shows our commitment to safety, compliance, and professionalism. You can see examples of our U.S.-based work in our showreel.
Final Thoughts
The Part 107 certification is more than just a legal checkbox – it’s your entry ticket to a world of commercial drone opportunities in the United States. From understanding airspace to navigating weather patterns and flight restrictions, the knowledge gained through the process is invaluable.
If you’re an Australian operator thinking of flying in the U.S., rest assured: it’s entirely possible, legal, and worthwhile. Just like we did, you can register for the test, study hard, and join the growing global community of certified Part 107 pilots.
To learn more about flying drones around the world, check out our global drone regulations guide. And if you’re flying for fun in the U.S., don’t forget to complete your TRUST test first.