FAA Part 107 Complete Guide 2026: Master Commercial Drone Operations

After 25 years as an aviation test pilot, including my time as Boeing Chief Test Pilot at Insitu and conducting eVTOL flight test programs at MightyFly, I've witnessed firsthand how critical proper regulations are to aviation safety. When the FAA introduced Part 107 in 2016, it marked a pivotal moment for commercial drone operations. This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to master Part 107 in 2026.

What is Part 107?

FAA Part 107, officially titled "Operation and Certification of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems," is the regulatory framework governing commercial drone operations in the United States. This rule established the foundation for integrating unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) into the National Airspace System while maintaining safety standards that protect both airspace users and people on the ground.

The Evolution of Drone Regulation

Before Part 107, commercial drone operations required a Section 333 exemption—a cumbersome process that took months and severely limited operations. Part 107 revolutionized the industry by creating a streamlined certification path that allows operators to begin commercial operations within days of passing the knowledge test.

Who Must Follow Part 107?

Part 107 applies to all commercial drone operations, which the FAA defines broadly. You need a Part 107 remote pilot certificate if you operate a drone for:

• Direct commercial services: Photography, videography, inspections, surveying, mapping
• Business operations: Real estate marketing, construction monitoring, agricultural assessments
• Non-profit activities: Search and rescue, environmental monitoring, research
• Educational purposes: University research, training programs beyond recreational use
• Government operations: State and local agencies (federal agencies operate under different rules)

Even if you're not directly charging for drone services, if your operation furthers a business purpose or generates revenue indirectly, you're operating commercially under Part 107.

What Part 107 Covers

Part 107 establishes comprehensive requirements covering:

• Remote pilot certification and training requirements
• Aircraft registration and marking
• Operational limitations and prohibited activities
• Airspace authorization procedures
• Aircraft inspection and maintenance requirements
• Record-keeping and reporting obligations
• Waiver processes for operations outside standard limitations

Part 107 Requirements 2026

Remote Pilot Certificate Eligibility

To obtain a remote pilot certificate under Part 107, you must meet these fundamental requirements:

• Age requirement: Must be at least 16 years old
• Language proficiency: Able to read, speak, write, and understand English
• Physical and mental condition: Must be in condition to safely operate a small UAS
• Knowledge demonstration: Pass the aeronautical knowledge test with a score of 70% or higher
• TSA vetting: Successfully complete Transportation Security Administration security screening

Aircraft Requirements

Your drone must meet specific criteria to operate under Part 107:

• Weight limit: Less than 55 pounds including all equipment and cargo
• Registration: Must be registered with the FAA if over 0.55 pounds (250 grams)
• Marking: Registration number must be clearly visible and accessible
• Airworthiness: Must be in safe operating condition with no known defects
• Remote ID compliance: Must have Remote ID capability (as of 2023 for most operations)

Operational Requirements

Part 107 establishes specific operational parameters that cannot be exceeded without a waiver:

• Maximum altitude: 400 feet above ground level (AGL), or within 400 feet of a structure
• Maximum speed: 100 mph (87 knots) groundspeed
• Visual line of sight: Remote pilot must maintain visual contact with aircraft
• Daylight operations: Only during official daylight hours (sunrise to sunset) plus 30-minute twilight periods
• Weather minimums: Must maintain at least 3 statute miles visibility
• Cloud clearance: Must remain clear of clouds

Prohibited Operations Under Standard Part 107

Without obtaining specific waivers, you cannot:

• Fly over people not directly participating in the operation
• Operate from a moving vehicle (except in sparsely populated areas)
• Operate multiple aircraft simultaneously
• Carry hazardous materials
• Drop or release any payload that could cause injury or property damage
• Operate beyond visual line of sight
• Operate at night without additional authorization

How to Get a Drone License

Obtaining your Part 107 remote pilot certificate involves several steps that I recommend completing systematically. Having helped numerous pilots transition to Part 107 operations, I can guide you through the most effective approach.

Step 1: Study for the Knowledge Test

The Part 107 knowledge test covers a broad range of aeronautical knowledge. Based on my experience with both traditional aviation and UAS operations, I recommend focusing your study on these key areas:

• Regulations: Part 107 operational requirements and limitations
• Airspace: Classifications, operating requirements, and authorization procedures
• Weather: Sources, interpretation, and effects on small UAS performance
• Loading and performance: Weight and balance, performance calculations
• Operations: Flight planning, crew resource management, emergency procedures

Step 2: Schedule and Take the Knowledge Test

The Part 107 knowledge test is administered at FAA-approved testing centers nationwide. Here's what you need to know:

• Cost: $175 (paid directly to the testing center)
• Duration: 2 hours maximum
• Questions: 60 multiple-choice questions
• Passing score: 70% (42 correct answers)
• Required materials: Government-issued photo ID

You can schedule your test online through PSI Services, the FAA's testing contractor. I recommend scheduling at least a week in advance, especially in busy metropolitan areas.

Step 3: Apply for Your Remote Pilot Certificate

After passing the knowledge test, you'll receive a temporary certificate that's valid for 120 days. To get your permanent certificate:

1. Create an account in the FAA's Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) system
2. Complete FAA Form 8710-13 (Remote Pilot Certificate Application)
3. Pay the $5 application fee
4. Submit your application electronically
5. Wait for TSA security vetting (typically 2-3 weeks)

Once approved, your permanent remote pilot certificate will be mailed to you and will be valid for 24 months.

Step 4: Register Your Aircraft

Before flying commercially, register your drone at the FAA's DroneZone website. You'll need:

• Aircraft make, model, and serial number
• Credit card for the $5 registration fee
• Your name and address

Mark the registration number on your aircraft in an accessible location using permanent methods.

Part 107 Test Topics

The Part 107 knowledge test draws from a comprehensive pool of questions covering all aspects of small UAS operations. Understanding what the test emphasizes will help you focus your study efforts effectively.

Federal Aviation Regulations (Weight: ~25%)

This section tests your knowledge of Part 107 regulations specifically:

• Remote pilot certificate requirements and privileges
• Aircraft registration and marking requirements
• Operational limitations (altitude, speed, visibility)
• Prohibited operations and required waivers
• Inspection and maintenance requirements
• Record-keeping and reporting obligations

Airspace Classification and Operating Requirements (Weight: ~15%)

Critical for safe operations, especially in complex airspace environments:

• Class A, B, C, D, E, and G airspace characteristics
• Special use airspace (MOAs, restricted areas, prohibited areas)
• LAANC authorization procedures
• NOTAMs and TFR interpretation
• Airport operations and communication requirements

Weather Systems and Sources (Weight: ~15%)

Weather knowledge is crucial for safe UAS operations:

• Weather reporting systems (METAR, TAF, PIREP)
• Weather hazards affecting small UAS
• Wind effects on aircraft performance
• Visibility and cloud clearance requirements
• Density altitude effects on performance

Loading and Performance (Weight: ~10%)

Understanding how weight and balance affect your aircraft:

• Weight and balance calculations
• Center of gravity effects
• Performance limitations
• Payload considerations
• Battery weight and endurance calculations

Operations (Weight: ~20%)

Practical operational knowledge:

• Pre-flight planning and risk assessment
• Crew resource management principles
• Emergency procedures
• Lost link procedures
• Communication protocols
• Site surveying and hazard identification

Aerodynamics and Aircraft Systems (Weight: ~10%)

Basic understanding of how aircraft fly:

• Four forces of flight
• Control surface functions
• Propulsion systems
• Stability and control
• Ground effect phenomena

Human Factors (Weight: ~5%)

Understanding human limitations and capabilities:

• Effects of alcohol and drugs
• Fatigue and stress factors
• Visual scanning techniques
• Decision-making processes
• Situational awareness

Part 107 Waivers

Part 107 waivers allow operators to conduct operations outside the standard regulatory limitations when they can demonstrate equivalent safety. Having reviewed numerous waiver applications in my consulting work, I can guide you through the process and requirements.

Most Common Waiver Types

Night Operations (107.29)

Allows operations during official nighttime hours. Requirements typically include:

• Anti-collision lighting visible for 3 statute miles
• Enhanced pilot training and currency
• Detailed operational procedures
• Risk assessment and mitigation strategies

Operations Over People (107.39)

Permits flights over people not directly participating in operations:

• Detailed crowd analysis and safety assessment
• Aircraft reliability documentation
• Emergency procedures and coordination
• Insurance coverage verification

Beyond Visual Line of Sight (107.31)

The most complex waiver type, requiring:

• Detect and avoid (DAA) systems or procedures
• Communication backup systems
• Air traffic control coordination
• Extensive safety management systems

For comprehensive BVLOS operations planning, see our detailed BVLOS operations guide.

The Waiver Application Process

Successful waiver applications require meticulous preparation:

1. Identify specific regulations requiring waiver
2. Develop comprehensive operational procedures
3. Conduct thorough risk assessment
4. Implement mitigation strategies
5. Submit application via FAA DroneZone
6. Respond to FAA questions and requests

For detailed guidance on specific waiver types and application strategies, consult our complete Part 107 waivers guide.

Part 107 vs Part 108

Understanding the relationship between Part 107 and the proposed Part 108 regulation is crucial for planning advanced UAS operations and understanding the future of commercial drone regulation.

Part 107 Current Limitations

Part 107 was designed for small UAS operations with specific constraints:

• Maximum aircraft weight of 55 pounds
• Visual line of sight operations only
• Operations over people heavily restricted
• No routine cargo delivery operations
• Limited night operations
• Single aircraft operations (without waiver)

Part 108 Proposed Framework

The FAA's proposed Part 108 regulation will address operations that Part 107 cannot accommodate:

• Larger aircraft: UAS over 55 pounds up to 1,320 pounds
• BVLOS operations: Routine beyond visual line of sight flights
• Cargo operations: Package delivery and freight transport
• Passenger operations: Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) vehicles
• Multiple aircraft: Fleet operations and swarms
• Urban operations: Operations over populated areas

Certification Requirements Under Part 108

Part 108 operations will require more stringent certification:

• Type certification: Aircraft must undergo formal certification processes
• Operator certification: Air carrier-style operating certificates
• Enhanced pilot certification: More rigorous training and currency requirements
• Maintenance programs: Formal maintenance and inspection protocols
• Safety management systems: Comprehensive SMS implementation

Operational Differences

Part 108 operations will resemble air carrier operations more than current Part 107:

Timeline and Implementation

Part 108 development is progressing, but implementation will be phased:

• 2026: Final rule publication expected
• 2027-2028: Initial operator certifications
• 2029+: Full operational capability

For detailed Part 108 analysis and preparation strategies, see our comprehensive Part 108 BVLOS guide.

Commercial Drone Insurance

While not required by FAA regulations, commercial drone insurance is a critical component of professional operations. Having worked with operators across industries, I strongly recommend comprehensive insurance coverage for all commercial activities.

Why Insurance Matters

Even experienced pilots face risks that insurance helps mitigate:

• Equipment protection: Expensive aircraft and sensors need protection
• Liability coverage: Property damage and injury claims can be financially devastating
• Client requirements: Many clients mandate insurance coverage
• Business continuity: Insurance helps maintain operations after incidents
• Professional credibility: Insurance demonstrates professional risk management

Types of Coverage

Hull Coverage (Physical Damage)

Protects your aircraft and equipment:

• All-risk coverage for aircraft damage or loss
• Typically covers theft, crash damage, and weather-related loss
• May include coverage for cameras, gimbals, and other equipment
• Deductibles typically range from $500-$2,500

Liability Coverage

Critical protection against third-party claims:

• General liability: Bodily injury and property damage claims
• Professional liability: Errors and omissions in your work product
• Privacy liability: Claims related to inappropriate data collection
• Cyber liability: Data breach and network security issues

Ground Support Equipment

Often overlooked but important coverage:

• Ground control stations and computers
• Batteries and charging equipment
• Transportation cases and vehicles
• Test equipment and spare parts

Coverage Amounts and Considerations

Based on industry standards and client requirements:

• Minimum liability: $1 million per occurrence
• Preferred liability: $2-5 million per occurrence
• High-risk operations: $10+ million may be required
• Hull coverage: Replacement cost of aircraft and equipment

Factors Affecting Insurance Costs

Several factors influence your insurance premiums:

• Pilot experience: More flight hours typically reduce costs
• Training history: Formal training programs are viewed favorably
• Operation type: Inspections are generally lower risk than crowd operations
• Geographic area: Urban operations typically cost more
• Aircraft value: More expensive equipment costs more to insure
• Claims history: Previous claims affect future rates

Working with Insurance Providers

To get the best coverage and rates:

• Work with brokers who specialize in aviation insurance
• Provide detailed information about your operations
• Maintain detailed flight logs and safety records
• Implement formal safety management practices
• Consider higher deductibles to reduce premiums
• Bundle coverage when possible

For more guidance on building a comprehensive commercial drone program, including insurance considerations, see our commercial drone program development guide.

Conclusion

Part 107 represents more than just a regulatory framework—it's the foundation for safe, professional drone operations in an increasingly complex airspace environment. Having spent decades in aviation safety and test flying, I've seen how proper regulation enables innovation rather than stifling it.

The key to success with Part 107 lies not in finding ways around the regulations, but in understanding their intent and implementing comprehensive safety practices that exceed minimum requirements. Whether you're just starting your commercial drone journey or expanding existing operations, treating Part 107 as the baseline rather than the ceiling will set you apart as a professional operator.

Remember that regulations evolve, technology advances, and best practices emerge through experience. Stay engaged with the aviation community, continue learning, and never hesitate to consult with experienced professionals when facing complex operational scenarios.

Part 107 is your license to operate commercially, but your commitment to safety, professionalism, and continuous improvement will determine your success in this dynamic industry.