**FAA Part 107 Certification FAQ**
FAA Part 107 Certification FAQ
_Your guide to understanding and operating drones safely and legally under FAA regulations._
Basic Questions for New Drone Pilots
1. Do I need a license to fly a drone in the United States?
Yes, if you are flying a drone for commercial purposes or any activity that does not qualify as recreational under 49 USC § 44809, you must obtain an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Recreational pilots must follow the rules outlined in § 44809 but do not need a Part 107 certificate.
2. What is FAA Part 107, and who does it apply to?
FAA Part 107 (14 CFR Part 107) establishes rules for the operation of small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for non-recreational purposes. It applies to individuals flying drones for commercial use, such as photography, surveying, or inspections.
- â–¸Be at least 16 years old.
- â–¸Pass the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Test.
- â–¸Be vetted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
- â–¸Complete FAA Form 8710-13 through the Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA).
4. Do I need to register my drone?
Yes, all drones weighing 0.55 lbs (250 grams) or more must be registered with the FAA. Registration is required whether you are flying recreationally under § 44809 or commercially under Part 107.
5. How high can I fly my drone under Part 107?
The maximum altitude is 400 feet above ground level (AGL), except when flying within 400 feet of a structure (e.g., inspecting a building or tower).
Questions for Active Drone Pilots
6. Can I fly near an airport under Part 107?
Yes, but you must obtain authorization from the FAA before flying in controlled airspace near an airport. Use the Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) system to request approval. Flying in uncontrolled airspace does not require authorization.
7. Can I fly my drone at night?
Yes, under Part 107, flying at night is permitted if you have completed the updated recurrent training or testing that includes night operations. Your drone must also be equipped with anti-collision lighting visible for at least three statute miles.
8. What happens if I lose visual line of sight with my drone?
Under Part 107, maintaining visual line of sight (VLOS) is mandatory. If you lose sight of your drone, immediately regain visual contact or safely land the drone. Flying beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) requires a waiver.
9. Can I fly over people?
Flying over people is restricted unless the operation meets specific conditions outlined in Part 107.39 or the drone qualifies as Category 1, 2, or 3 under the Operations Over People rule. Always review these requirements carefully.
10. What should I do if I want to fly in restricted areas like national parks or military bases?
Restricted areas often prohibit drone operations. Obtain proper permissions or waivers if required, and always check the FAA's UAS Facility Maps and local regulations before flying.
Questions for Professional and Commercial Pilots
11. How do I apply for a waiver to conduct advanced operations under Part 107?
Submit a waiver application through the FAA DroneZone portal. You must provide detailed information about your planned operation, including safety mitigations and risk assessments. Waivers are commonly issued for BVLOS, operations over people, or flying at altitudes above 400 feet AGL.
12. Can I use my drone for package delivery?
Yes, but package delivery operations require additional FAA approvals beyond Part 107. These operations may fall under Part 135 Air Carrier certification, depending on the scope of your business.
13. What are the penalties for violating Part 107 regulations?
Violations can result in civil penalties, including fines of up to $34,000 per incident. Additionally, unsafe or unauthorized operations may result in suspension or revocation of your Remote Pilot Certificate.
14. How do I renew my Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate?
Recurrent training is required every 24 months. As of April 2021, you can complete free online recurrent training through the FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) website.
15. Are there special rules for agricultural drone operations?
Agricultural operations typically fall under Part 107. However, if your drone is used to apply pesticides or other chemicals, additional certifications and compliance with EPA regulations may be required.
Critical Safety and Legal Compliance Questions
16. What should I do if I crash my drone?
If the crash results in serious injury, property damage exceeding $500, or involves another aircraft, you must report the incident to the FAA within 10 days using the FAA DroneZone portal.
17. Can I fly my drone in bad weather?
Part 107 requires that you operate your drone in safe weather conditions. Flights are prohibited during heavy rain, snow, or high winds. Check weather forecasts and avoid flying in unsafe conditions.
18. What are the consequences of flying without a Part 107 Certificate for commercial purposes?
Flying commercially without a valid Remote Pilot Certificate is illegal and may result in fines, legal action, and suspension of future drone operations.
19. How do I find legal places to fly my drone?
Use FAA UAS Facility Maps, B4UFLY app, and LAANC to identify areas where drone operations are permitted. Avoid restricted areas, TFRs (Temporary Flight Restrictions), and controlled airspace unless authorized.
Important Notes and Resources
- â–¸Always verify regulations: Rules may change, so ensure compliance with the latest FAA requirements.
- â–¸Educational content: This FAQ is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
- ▸Related Resources: Visit FAA’s DroneZone and 120mAGL.com for additional guidance.
Stay informed, fly safely, and operate legally!
About the Author
Roberto Gramellini
Aviation expert and UAS regulations specialist with extensive experience in EASA compliance and drone operations. Passionate about making complex regulations accessible to drone pilots across Europe.
EASA Regulatory Compliance Notice
This content is for educational purposes only and is based on EASA regulations current at the time of generation.
Always consult the official EASA documentation and your local aviation authorities for the most current regulations and legal compliance requirements before operating any UAS.