Top Tips on How to Pass the FAA Part 107 Test
Table of Contents
If you’re aiming to pass the FAA Part 107 test and become a certified remote pilot, you’re in the right place. This guide will cover everything you need, from the test format and key topics to the best study materials and effective practice strategies. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to prepare and what steps to take to ensure you know how to pass the FAA Part 107 test with confidence.
Key Takeaways
The FAA Part 107 test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions covering key topics like airspace classification and weather effects, requiring a minimum score of 70% to pass.
Using a mix of study materials—including the FAA’s free guide, online courses, and practice exams—can significantly enhance your preparation for the test.
After passing the test, you’ll receive your remote pilot certificate within a few weeks, and maintaining it requires completing an online training course every 24 months.
What is the FAA Part 107 Knowledge Test
To become a certified remote pilot the FAA Part 107 test is required. It’s taken at a knowledge testing center and has 60 multiple choice questions to be completed in 2 hours. Since the test costs $160 to take it’s worth preparing well so you don’t have to take it again.
The test covers airspace classification, weather and how it affects drone operations, loading and performance considerations. Master these areas and you’ll not only pass but also know how to fly your drone safely and by the book—knowing where you can fly your drone in different classifications of airspace is just one example.
You need to score at least 70% on this test—which is 42 out of 60—to pass. You’ll get your results immediately after you finish the test so you’ll know right away if you passed or not.
Having a solid study plan that covers content and question format will help a lot when you sit for the part 107 test. Being familiar with typical questions and key topics will give you a good foundation so you’ll feel confident on test day.
Study Materials
Having the right study materials is key when preparing for the FAA Part 107 knowledge test. The FAA’s own free study guide is 79 pages and covers the test content and key areas to focus on.
There are many online platforms that offer courses specifically designed for Part 107 certification. These courses usually have video instruction, practice exams that simulate the actual test, and interactive components to help with harder topics. Having access to multiple practice tests to help you master and be ready for test day.
Here’s a list of some reliable online resources that offer study guides and practice exams for the FAA Part 107 test. These sites provide a range of materials, including video courses, practice tests, and detailed study guides.
FAA Official Resources
FAA Study Guide: The FAA offers free study materials, including a comprehensive guide to the Part 107 exam and sample questions.
FAA Study Guide for Part 107FAA Knowledge Test Information: Provides official info on where to take the test and other test details.
FAA Part 107 Knowledge Test
Pilot Institute
This site offers free practice tests and paid courses with over 200 videos, covering everything from airspace to operations.
Pilot Institute - Part 107 Test Prep
Drone Launch Academy
Known for its high-quality courses and free practice tests, Drone Launch Academy is a popular choice among drone operators.
Drone Launch Academy - Free Part 107 Practice Test
Remote Pilot 101
Offers a complete course for Part 107 preparation with lifetime access to the course material and free updates.
Remote Pilot 101
Drone U
Offers an extensive online course and free practice tests to help you prepare for the Part 107 exam.
Drone U - Part 107 Test Prep
Key Areas to Master
You need to have a good understanding of airspace classification, weather and drone loading and performance to pass the FAA Part 107 test. Master these topics not only to pass the test but also to be a safe and efficient commercial drone pilot.
Airspace Classification
Airspace classification is key to safe drone flight. The sky is divided into different classes each with its own set of rules and limitations.
Take Class A airspace for example. It’s above 18,000 feet MSL and requires ATC authorization to enter. Class B airspace is around major airports from the ground to 10,000 feet and requires ATC clearance to operate within. Class C airspace is around smaller airports with moderate traffic from the ground to 4,000 feet above airport elevation and requires ATC permission to operate. Class D airspace is up to 2,500 feet above surrounding airport terrain and requires dialogue with ATC before you can enter.
Class E is another type of controlled airspace not included in Classes A through D where pilot initiated contact or ATC approval is not required to enter. Outside of these controlled areas is Class G – uncontrolled airspace – where there is no ATC approval process.
Understanding what each class means helps to keep drone operations safe under aviation regulations.
Weather and Drones
Weather can severely impact operational stability and control of the unmanned aircraft when flying through an unstable air mass. For remote pilots flying operations the interpretation of METAR reports is key to getting the weather information that is important to flight planning, safety and aeronautical decision making.
Drone propeller efficiency is affected by many atmospheric conditions such as wind direction and speed. Flying an unmanned aircraft is more challenging with strong winds and calm winds are best for stable flight. Performance issues can arise from high density altitude scenarios because of its negative impact on propeller efficiency. So understanding these factors is key to preparation.
Ignoring weather conditions can create hazardous flying environment. So always check the forecast before you fly. Knowing how different weather patterns affect drone behavior is crucial to making informed decisions to ensure safe operations.
Loading and Performance
Managing the load and performance of small unmanned aircraft is key to both safety and efficiency in flight. Don’t exceed the maximum allowable weight as it will affect both. So follow this weight limit.
It’s also important to make sure your drone is loaded evenly. If the weight distribution on an unmanned aircraft is not even it can cause operational instability or malfunction. Since the center of gravity is critical to stability and control of small unmanned aircraft systems, where you place the load on your drone is crucial.
Knowing these subjects will help you prepare for the FAA Part 107 test and for safe and effective drone operations.
Practice Makes Perfect: Sample Questions
Here are 45 of the most likely questions you’ll see on the part 107 exam. You need 42 correct answers to pass.
1. What is the minimum age requirement to be eligible for a Remote Pilot Certificate?
A) 13 years old
B) 16 years old
C) 18 years old
D) 21 years old
Answer: B) 16 years old
2. When flying in Class C airspace, what must a drone pilot do?
A) Obtain permission from ATC before flying
B) Stay below 200 feet
C) Stay 1 mile away from any airports
D) No permission is required to fly
Answer: A) Obtain permission from ATC before flying
3. What is the maximum altitude you can fly your drone under Part 107 regulations?
A) 400 feet AGL
B) 500 feet AGL
C) 300 feet MSL
D) 600 feet MSL
Answer: A) 400 feet AGL
4. How often must you pass a recurrent knowledge test to maintain your Part 107 certificate?
A) Every 6 months
B) Every year
C) Every 24 months
D) Every 48 months
Answer: C) Every 24 months
5. What does a METAR report indicate?
A) Wind speed and direction
B) A forecast for future weather
C) A routine weather observation
D) A report of significant weather phenomena
Answer: C) A routine weather observation
6. According to Part 107, what is the maximum groundspeed for a small unmanned aircraft?
A) 87 knots
B) 100 knots
C) 87 miles per hour
D) 100 miles per hour
Answer: A) 87 knots
7. You are flying a small UA on a clear, calm day. The UA begins to experience turbulence and suddenly stalls. What is the most likely cause of the stall?
A) Flying at a high altitude
B) Exceeding the critical angle of attack
C) Loss of GPS signal
D) Engine failure
Answer: B) Exceeding the critical angle of attack
8. What is the purpose of the Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF)?
A) To communicate with other pilots at non-towered airports
B) To receive air traffic control instructions
C) To file a flight plan
D) To report any hazardous conditions
Answer: A) To communicate with other pilots at non-towered airports
9. What is the maximum weight limit for a drone to qualify under Part 107 rules?
A) 55 pounds
B) 45 pounds
C) 60 pounds
D) 75 pounds
Answer: A) 55 pounds
10. What action should the remote PIC take if they lose control of the unmanned aircraft?
A) Immediately land the drone
B) Notify the nearest ATC
C) Turn off the transmitter
D) Follow lost link procedures
Answer: D) Follow lost link procedures
11. What should you do if you experience a near-midair collision with a manned aircraft?
A) Notify local law enforcement
B) Land your drone immediately
C) Report the incident to the FAA within 10 days
D) Contact air traffic control (ATC)
Answer: C) Report the incident to the FAA within 10 days
12. What must a remote pilot do if the unmanned aircraft experiences a flyaway during operation?
A) Immediately notify ATC
B) Safely recover the aircraft as soon as possible
C) File a report with the FAA within 24 hours
D) Follow the pre-established lost link procedures
Answer: D) Follow the pre-established lost link procedures
13. Under Part 107, what are the visibility requirements for operating a small unmanned aircraft?
A) At least 3 miles of visibility
B) At least 5 miles of visibility
C) At least 1 mile of visibility
D) At least 2 miles of visibility
Answer: A) At least 3 miles of visibility
14. What is the purpose of NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen)?
A) To provide important information about temporary flight restrictions
B) To alert pilots to airspace changes
C) To issue drone-specific operating requirements
D) To notify pilots of routine airport maintenance
Answer: A) To provide important information about temporary flight restrictions
15. What is the primary purpose of the "Remote Pilot in Command" (RPIC)?
A) To file flight plans with the FAA
B) To supervise and ensure the safe operation of the drone
C) To conduct maintenance on the drone
D) To monitor ATC frequencies
Answer: B) To supervise and ensure the safe operation of the drone
16. What is the minimum required distance from clouds when operating a drone under Part 107 rules?
A) 500 feet below and 2,000 feet horizontally
B) 1,000 feet below and 1 mile horizontally
C) 300 feet below and 1,500 feet horizontally
D) 500 feet above and 1,000 feet horizontally
Answer: A) 500 feet below and 2,000 feet horizontally
17. What is the definition of "ceiling" in aviation terms?
A) The lowest layer of clouds or obscuring phenomena reported as being broken or overcast
B) The maximum altitude you can fly
C) The altitude of the highest cloud layer
D) The altitude above mean sea level
Answer: A) The lowest layer of clouds or obscuring phenomena reported as being broken or overcast
18. When can you operate your drone in twilight conditions without anti-collision lighting?
A) Never
B) Only with a waiver from the FAA
C) Within 30 minutes before sunrise or after sunset
D) Within 60 minutes before sunrise or after sunset
Answer: C) Within 30 minutes before sunrise or after sunset
19. What does the term "scanning" refer to when flying drones near an airport?
A) Searching for a nearby ATC tower
B) Constantly surveying the surrounding airspace for potential hazards
C) Monitoring drone altitude
D) Searching for GPS satellites
Answer: B) Constantly surveying the surrounding airspace for potential hazards
20. What is the minimum horizontal distance that you should maintain from manned aircraft at all times?
A) 500 feet
B) 1,000 feet
C) 1 mile
D) 2 miles
Answer: A) 500 feet
21. Under what conditions may remote pilots fly through a restricted area?
A) With the controlling agency’s authorization
B) Only with FAA clearance
C) Never allowed under Part 107
D) If visibility is greater than 3 miles
Answer: A) With the controlling agency’s authorization
22. What is the best way for a remote pilot to determine the likelihood of fog formation?
A) Monitor wind speeds
B) Check temperature/dew point spread
C) Check barometric pressure
D) Monitor ATC communications
Answer: B) Check temperature/dew point spread
23. What is the minimum distance from clouds required for sUAS Part 107 operations?
A) Clear of clouds
B) 1,000 feet above, 2,000 feet horizontally
C) 500 feet below, 2,000 feet horizontally
D) 500 feet above, 1,000 feet horizontally
Answer: C) 500 feet below, 2,000 feet horizontally
24. What weather phenomenon is always associated with a thunderstorm?
A) Heavy rain
B) Lightning
C) Hail
D) Turbulence
Answer: B) Lightning
25. How does high-density altitude affect the performance of an unmanned aircraft?
A) Propeller efficiency is increased
B) Propeller efficiency is decreased
C) Density altitude does not affect performance
D) It improves aircraft lift
Answer: B) Propeller efficiency is decreased
26. When loading equipment onto a small unmanned aircraft, what must you consider?
A) That the equipment is visible to the visual observer
B) Weight and balance limitations must not be exceeded
C) It can be removed easily without tools
D) CG (Center of Gravity) location is not important for sUAS
Answer: B) Weight and balance limitations must not be exceeded
27. What is the primary effect of a temperature inversion?
A) It creates stable air with limited visibility
B) It increases wind speeds
C) It leads to turbulent weather patterns
D) It improves aircraft performance
Answer: A) It creates stable air with limited visibility
28. What is the typical duration of an individual microburst?
A) 30 minutes
B) 5 minutes
C) Seldom longer than 15 minutes
D) 1 hour
Answer: C) Seldom longer than 15 minutes
29. What is the recommended technique for scanning for traffic during flight?
A) Continuously scanning from left to right
B) Systematically focusing on different segments of the sky for short intervals
C) Using peripheral vision
D) Only scanning when alerted by ATC
Answer: B) Systematically focusing on different segments of the sky for short intervals
30. When can an sUAS be operated over a person?
A) When they are directly participating in the operation
B) With their consent
C) If the drone is under 250 grams
D) Never
Answer: A) When they are directly participating in the operation
31. In which environment is structural icing most likely to occur?
A) Freezing drizzle
B) Cumulus clouds at freezing temperatures
C) Rain clouds above 10,000 feet
D) Heavy fog
Answer: B) Cumulus clouds at freezing temperatures
32. What are the characteristics of a moist, unstable air mass?
A) Poor visibility and smooth air
B) Haze and turbulence
C) Turbulence and showery precipitation
D) Clear skies and calm air
Answer: C) Turbulence and showery precipitation
33. When can you exceed 400 feet AGL while flying under Part 107?
A) Never
B) Only when in Class G airspace
C) When flying within 400 feet of a structure
D) When operating over water
Answer: C) When flying within 400 feet of a structure
34. What is required when operating in Class D airspace?
A) Obtain permission from ATC
B) Fly only below 400 feet
C) Monitor CTAF
D) Maintain visual line of sight
Answer: A) Obtain permission from ATC
35. What effect does an uphill terrain slope have on launch performance?
A) Increases launch distance
B) Reduces launch distance
C) Decreases takeoff speed
D) No impact
Answer: A) Increases launch distance
36. What type of weather condition is typically associated with an unstable air mass?
A) Clear skies and calm air
B) Smooth air and steady precipitation
C) Turbulence and showery precipitation
D) Haze and poor visibility
Answer: C) Turbulence and showery precipitation
37. What effect does humidity have on aircraft performance?
A) Humidity has no effect
B) As humidity increases, air density decreases, reducing performance
C) As humidity increases, air density increases, improving performance
D) Humidity only affects performance at high altitudes
Answer: B) As humidity increases, air density decreases, reducing performance
38. When operating in Class E airspace, what is the minimum weather visibility requirement for sUAS operations?
A) 1 mile visibility
B) 3 miles visibility
C) 5 miles visibility
D) 10 miles visibility
Answer: B) 3 miles visibility
39. What is the purpose of a Military Operations Area (MOA)?
A) It defines areas where drones cannot operate
B) It separates certain military training activities from IFR traffic
C) It is a designated area for UAV test flights
D) It allows for civilian drone operations to be monitored by the military
Answer: B) It separates certain military training activities from IFR traffic
40. Which of the following is a true statement about flying drones over a moving vehicle?
A) It is allowed if the vehicle is in a sparsely populated area
B) It is always prohibited
C) It is allowed without restrictions
D) It is allowed only at night
Answer: A) It is allowed if the vehicle is in a sparsely populated area
41. What is the minimum altitude to fly above an obstruction within 400 feet of its location?
A) 400 feet AGL above the top of the obstruction
B) 200 feet AGL above the obstruction
C) 300 feet AGL above the top of the obstruction
D) No minimum altitude is required
Answer: A) 400 feet AGL above the top of the obstruction
42. If your drone weighs 55 pounds, what action must you take to operate legally under Part 107?
A) No action is required, you may fly
B) Obtain a waiver from the FAA
C) Fly only in Class G airspace
D) Register the drone with the FAA
Answer: D) Register the drone with the FAA
43. What happens when a cold front meets a warm air mass?
A) The warm air stays at ground level
B) The cold air is forced upward, causing thunderstorms
C) The warm air is forced upward, causing thunderstorms
D) The two air masses combine into one stable air mass
Answer: C) The warm air is forced upward, causing thunderstorms
44. Which of the following operations does not require a remote pilot certificate under Part 107?
A) Flying a drone for commercial purposes
B) Flying a drone as a hobbyist
C) Flying a drone for real estate photography
D) Flying a drone for a survey job
Answer: B) Flying a drone as a hobbyist
45. What is the best source for determining sUAS performance data and operating limitations?
A) Weather reports from the nearest tower
B) Manufacturer's publications and user manuals
C) Information from other remote pilots
D) General performance data available online
Answer: B) Manufacturer's publications and user manuals
Tips and Tricks for Passing the Part 107 Test
Based on what others have shared after passing the Part 107 test, here are some key strategies for success:
1. Study METARs and TAFs
METARs (weather reports) and TAFs (forecasts) can seem tricky, but they are important for drone operations. Make sure you can read and interpret them. Practice with real-world examples from aviation websites.
2. Understand Airspace Classes
One of the most frequently mentioned topics is airspace classification. Know the different airspaces (Class B, C, D, E, and G) and when you need permission to operate your drone. Pay special attention to the height limits and where each class starts and ends.
3. Know the FAA Rules
This test is all about regulations, so you’ll need to be very familiar with the FAA's drone rules. Understand the 400-foot altitude limit, when you can fly over people, and what to do if you lose control of your drone.
4. Focus on Safety Scenarios
Many test questions revolve around safety. For example, what would you do if there’s a manned aircraft nearby, or what’s the right response in hazardous weather? Think safety first, and always choose the safest option.
5. Use a Study Guide or Prep Course
Numerous people have recommended online study guides or courses like those from Remote Pilot 101 or the FAA's own free materials. These break down the test content and include practice questions.
6. Take Practice Tests
The more practice tests you take, the better prepared you’ll feel. There are plenty of free online resources that simulate the types of questions you’ll face, helping you get used to the format.
7. Bring a Non-Programmable Calculator
You’re allowed to use a non-programmable calculator during the test. It’s useful for questions involving weather, performance data, or calculations related to weight and balance.
8. Manage Your Time
You’ll have 2 hours for 60 questions, so don’t rush. However, don’t get stuck on any one question for too long. If something is unclear, skip it and return later after answering the other questions.
9. Know the Charts
FAA Sectional Charts are crucial for the exam. Make sure you know how to interpret them, especially airspace boundaries, no-fly zones, and elevations.
10. Rest Before the Test
A lot of successful test-takers mentioned how important it is to go in well-rested and not to cram the night before. Give yourself a day or two to relax and review flashcards or light material instead of intensive study.
Test Day
Make sure to bring a government issued photo ID when you go to the FAA-approved Knowledge Testing Center on your test date. Presenting this ID is a required step to verify who you are. You can also bring your personal calculator which may be useful for some of the questions during the test.
The staff at the testing center will be friendly and will assist you throughout the process. You’ll find that the testing room has the basic software needed to take the test and there will be video surveillance to secure the test. Knowing this beforehand can help reduce test anxiety so you can focus on getting a good score on your test day.
Final Thoughts
Getting a remote pilot certificate through the FAA Part 107 exam is a must for commercial drone pilots. To pass this you need to know how the test is structured and use good study materials and master the important topics. Using practice tests and learning strategies can help you pass the part 107 test on your first try.
It’s just as important to maintain your certification after the test and avoid common mistakes that can ruin long term success as a remote pilot. Certification means continuous education and following safety regulations – the keys to any responsible drone operator. Get ready for the exciting world of commercial drone piloting where the sky’s the limit.
FAQs
What is the passing score for the FAA Part 107 test?
You need to score at least 70% to pass the FAA Part 107 test which means you need to answer 42 out of 60 questions correctly.
Just remember that!
How often do I need to do recurrent training for my remote pilot certificate?
You need to do recurrent training every 24 months to keep your remote pilot certificate current.
Get on top of it!
Can I bring a calculator to the FAA Part 107 test?
Yes, you can bring your own calculator to the FAA Part 107 test, so make sure to bring it!
How long does it take to get the permanent remote pilot certificate after passing the test?
You will get your permanent remote pilot certificate in 6-8 weeks after passing the test.
Just wait and it will be in your mailbox soon!
What if I encounter bad weather on a flight day?
Bad weather? Check the forecast and METAR.
Reschedule.
