If you’re ready to take your drone skills to the next level and get certified as a commercial drone pilot, the FAA’s Part 107 exam is your next step. This guide will walk you through how to sign up for the exam and how long you should study to pass on your first attempt.
Step 1: Create an FAA Tracking Number (FTN)
Before scheduling your exam, you’ll need an FAA Tracking Number (FTN). This unique identifier is required to take any FAA test.
- Go to the Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) website: https://iacra.faa.gov/
- Click Register and select “Applicant.”
- Fill out the required personal information.
- Once registered, log in and retrieve your FTN number under your profile.
Step 2: Schedule Your Exam
With your FTN in hand, it’s time to book your exam through PSI, the official FAA testing provider.
- Visit PSI’s FAA Exam Site and create an account.
- Log in and select Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG) as your test.
- Choose a testing center near you.
- Select an available date and time.
- Pay the exam fee (currently $175).
That’s it! Once scheduled, it’s time to prepare.
How Long Should You Study?
The Part 107 exam covers a range of topics, including airspace classifications, weather reports, drone regulations, and more. The amount of time you need to study depends on your prior knowledge, but with the right resources, most people can prepare in about two weeks.
If you follow the study resources in my previous posts you can build a solid understanding of the material in about 1-2 hours per day over two weeks.
Final Tips Before Test Day
- Bring a valid photo ID to the testing center.
- Expect 60 multiple-choice questions and a passing score of 70%.
- Don’t rush! You have two hours to complete the test.
Once you pass, you’ll receive a certificate that allows you to fly drones commercially under the FAA’s Part 107 rules. Good luck!
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