When You Need a Drone License
You need a license to fly a drone if you are flying it for any kind of work or business — delivering packages, taking photos for a client, inspecting a roof, or filming for a company. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) calls this flying "for compensation." You also need a license if you are flying a drone that weighs more than 55 pounds, even if it is just for yourself.
If you are flying a small drone (under 55 pounds) purely for fun in your own backyard with no one paying you, you do not need an FAA license. But the line between hobby and work is narrower than many people think. If someone gives you money, trades you something of value, or even just reimburses your costs, the FAA considers that compensation.
The license you need is called a Part 107 certificate, and it is issued by the FAA, not by your state. It is separate from a driver's license and has nothing to do with vehicle licensing.
Key Takeaways
- You must have a Part 107 certificate to fly a drone for any kind of work, payment, or reimbursement, or if your drone weighs more than 55 pounds.
- The Part 107 test covers airspace rules, weather limits, and how to avoid other aircraft — not how to operate the drone itself.
- You must be at least 16 years old, pass a knowledge test, and pass a practical exam with an FAA inspector or an approved testing center.
- The knowledge test costs money and can be taken at testing centers across the country; the practical exam is separate and also has a fee.
- Once you have your certificate, you still cannot fly in certain airspace without permission from air traffic control.
What the Part 107 Test Actually Covers
The Part 107 knowledge test is not about how to fly your specific drone. It is about airspace, weather, and safety rules. You will answer 60 multiple-choice questions in 120 minutes. The test covers things like: how high you can fly (400 feet above ground in most cases), how far away you must keep your drone from airports, what weather conditions are safe for flying, and how to spot and avoid other aircraft.
You will also learn about the rules for flying near people, flying at night (which requires special permission), and what to do if your drone malfunctions. The test includes questions about your responsibility if your drone causes damage or injury, and how to report accidents to the FAA.
You take this test at an FAA-approved testing center. The FAA does not run the centers themselves — private companies do, but they follow FAA rules. You can search for testing centers near you on the FAA website. The test costs money, and the amount varies by testing center, but expect to pay between $100 and $200.
The Practical Exam and What Happens Next
After you pass the knowledge test, you must pass a practical exam with an FAA inspector or an examiner at an approved testing center. This exam is where you actually show that you can fly safely. You will fly your drone while the examiner watches and scores you on things like: keeping control of the aircraft, maintaining awareness of your surroundings, and following the rules you learned in the knowledge test.
The practical exam usually takes 20 to 30 minutes of actual flying, plus time for paperwork and briefing. You will need to bring your drone, your knowledge test passing score, a valid photo ID, and proof that you are at least 16 years old. If you are under 18, you will also need a parent or guardian to sign a consent form.
Once you pass both tests, the FAA issues your Part 107 certificate. It is valid for two years. You do not have to renew it by taking the tests again — you can renew online through the FAA's system, though you will need to pay a renewal fee.
Flying in Controlled Airspace Requires Extra Permission
Even with your Part 107 certificate, you cannot fly in certain airspace without asking for permission first. Controlled airspace is the area around airports where air traffic control manages airplane traffic. If you want to fly within five miles of an airport, you usually need to contact air traffic control and get clearance.
The FAA has a system called LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) that lets you request airspace access through an app on your phone. You can see which areas near you require permission and submit requests in real time. Some areas grant permission automatically; others require a phone call to the local tower.
If you fly in controlled airspace without permission, you can face fines from the FAA, even if you have your Part 107 certificate. The certificate proves you know the rules — it does not give you permission to break them.
Hobby Flying and State Drone Laws
If you are flying purely for fun and your drone weighs under 55 pounds, you do not need a Part 107 certificate. But you still have to follow FAA rules about where and how you can fly. You cannot fly higher than 400 feet, you cannot fly near airports, and you must keep your drone in sight at all times.
Some states and cities have added their own drone rules on top of the federal ones. A few states require registration even for hobby drones, and some cities have banned drones in certain parks or neighborhoods. Before you fly, check your local city or county website to see if there are additional restrictions where you live.
The FAA's website has a tool called B4UFLY that shows you the rules for any location you type in. It tells you the altitude limits, whether you need airspace permission, and whether there are any local restrictions.
How Much It Costs and How Long It Takes
The total cost of getting your Part 107 certificate depends on where you take the tests and whether you need training first. The knowledge test costs between $100 and $200. The practical exam fee varies by examiner but typically runs $150 to $300. Some people also pay for a training course before taking the tests, which can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,000 depending on whether it is online or in person.
The timeline depends on how quickly you can schedule tests. You can take the knowledge test as soon as you find an available slot at a testing center — sometimes within days. The practical exam usually requires scheduling in advance, so the whole process from start to finish often takes two to four weeks, though it can be faster or slower depending on your area.
What Happens If You Fly Without a License When You Need One
Flying a drone for work without a Part 107 certificate is a federal violation. The FAA can fine you up to $27,500 for operating without a certificate. If someone is injured or property is damaged, the fines can be much higher, and you could face criminal charges.
The FAA has become more active about enforcement in recent years, especially for commercial drone use. They monitor airspace, respond to reports from the public, and use their own surveillance to catch violations. Even if you think no one will notice, the risk is not worth it.
If you are unsure whether what you are doing counts as "for compensation," the safest choice is to get the certificate. The cost and time are much smaller than the risk of a federal fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Part 107 certificate if I am under 16?
No. You must be at least 16 years old to take the knowledge test and at least 16 to take the practical exam. If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian to sign a consent form, but you can still take the tests.
Do I need a Part 107 certificate to fly a drone in my backyard for fun?
No, as long as your drone weighs under 55 pounds and no one is paying you or reimbursing you for flying it. You still have to follow FAA rules about altitude and keeping it in sight, and you should check for local restrictions in your area.
What if I fail the knowledge test or the practical exam?
You can retake either test. There is no limit on how many times you can try. You will have to pay the test fee again each time you retake it. Many people study longer or take a training course before their second attempt.
Does my Part 107 certificate work in other countries?
No. The Part 107 certificate is only valid in the United States. If you want to fly drones in another country, you will need to check that country's rules and get whatever license or permission they require.
How do I renew my Part 107 certificate after two years?
You can renew online through the FAA's system without retaking the tests. You will need to pay a renewal fee. The FAA will send you information about renewal before your certificate expires.