So, anyone planning to make money from flying drones? If you’re in the U.S., you’ll need a drone pilot license (Remote Pilot Certificate). Whether you’re filming real estate videos or using drones for farming, as long as you’re earning something, the FAA requires you to pass the Part 107 test. But don’t stress, it’s way easier than learning to fly a plane! How do you even get started?
I’m just getting into the drone game for real estate. What’s the process for taking the test? Seems kinda complicated…
Afton said:
I’m just getting into the drone game for real estate. What’s the process for taking the test? Seems kinda complicated…
You can take the Part 107 test at one of 696 centers around the U.S. Just schedule it and pay a $150 fee. The test is 60 multiple-choice questions. It’s pretty straightforward once you study!
Afton said:
I’m just getting into the drone game for real estate. What’s the process for taking the test? Seems kinda complicated…
Got it, thanks! What about studying for it? Should I just cram the night before or is there a better way?
@Afton
Definitely don’t cram! I tried that and failed, lol. Take a course like Drone Pilot Ground School or Drone Launch Academy. They’re super helpful, and they have practice tests!
@Afton
Thanks, I’ll check them out. Guess I’ll need more than a night’s prep, huh?
I already have a manned pilot’s license. Do I still have to take the test, or is there a shortcut?
Leith said:
I already have a manned pilot’s license. Do I still have to take the test, or is there a shortcut?
You’re in luck! If you have a manned pilot’s license, you just need to take a 2-hour online FAA course. It’s free and easy, and you’ll get your drone license afterward!
Leith said:
I already have a manned pilot’s license. Do I still have to take the test, or is there a shortcut?
Oh, that’s awesome. I was worried it’d be another whole test. Thanks for clearing that up!
So, do I need a drone license if I’m just flying for fun? I’m not making any money from it.
Bowie said:
So, do I need a drone license if I’m just flying for fun? I’m not making any money from it.
You still need a basic certification! For hobbyists, you just take a free 45-minute online course called TRUST. It’s super easy, just covers the basics of safe drone flying.
Bowie said:
So, do I need a drone license if I’m just flying for fun? I’m not making any money from it.
Cool, didn’t know that. I thought I could just fly without anything. Appreciate the info!
What about gray areas? Like if I’m taking drone pics for a non-profit or for a school website, do I need a license?
Wynn said:
What about gray areas? Like if I’m taking drone pics for a non-profit or for a school website, do I need a license?
Yeah, you’d still need to operate under Part 107, even if you’re not getting paid. If there’s any kind of business involved, even volunteering, it counts as commercial use.
Wynn said:
What about gray areas? Like if I’m taking drone pics for a non-profit or for a school website, do I need a license?
Ah, got it. So even if I’m not making money directly, it’s still considered commercial use if it’s for an organization. Thanks!
I think my drone license is about to expire… what do I do to renew it?
mary said:
I think my drone license is about to expire… what do I do to renew it?
No worries! You just need to take a quick online recurrent training course through the FAA. It’s free and takes about an hour to complete.
mary said:
I think my drone license is about to expire… what do I do to renew it?
Oh, that sounds easy enough. I was stressing out thinking I’d have to retake the whole test, lol.