Professional Drone Pilot: Ground School and FAA Part 107 Test Prep

Lancaster, PA

• March 14–17
• May 2–5
• August 15–18
• November 7–10

Harrisonburg, VA

• March 28–31
• May 16–19
• September 12–15
• December 5–8

Daily Schedule:

• Friday: 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
• Saturday: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
• Sunday: 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
• Monday: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm 

$850.00 per person

Does not include:

• Remote Pilot Test Prep 2025-2026: Paperback Plus Software (ASA Test Prep) for $24.95
• FAA Knowledge Test fee - currently $175.00 which participants would purchase on their own

John Sibole has over 50 years of professional aviation experience, including service as an FAA inspector. With a passion for teaching and a deep understanding of FAA regulations, he is committed to helping participants attain the knowledge and skills necessary to operate drones safely, legally, and professionally.

• You need a drone license (Remote Pilot Certificate) if:
• You plan to fly a drone for commercial purposes, such as selling photos/videos, inspecting infrastructure, or using a drone for work.
• You want to operate under the FAA’s Part 107 rules.
• You do not need a license if you're flying solely for recreational purposes as a hobby. However:
• You must follow recreational flyer rules.

You are required to pass the free TRUST test (The Recreational UAS Safety Test).

The FAA has authorized PSI test centers for the Part 107 exam. To locate your nearest center:

1. Visit the FAA PSI Testing Site Locator.
2. Enter your ZIP code to find nearby test centers.

• No, prior drone flight experience is not required to take the Part 107 exam or obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate.

• Part 107 Exam Fee: $175
• Drone Registration: $5 per drone (valid for three years).

• You must be at least 16 years old to take the FAA Part 107 test and become certified.

How Long Does It Take to Get Your Drone License?

• 2–6 weeks, which includes:
• Studying: Allocate 15–20 hours to prepare for the exam.
• Testing: Schedule and complete the test at a PSI center.
• License Processing: Apply on the FAA’s IACRA portal and wait for approval.

What’s on the Part 107 Test?

• Topics include:
• Airspace classifications and operations.
• Weather and interpreting METAR/TAF reports.
• FAA regulations for drones.
• Emergency and safety procedures.
• Drone performance and maintenance.
• The test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions.
• You have two hours to complete the test.
• A passing score is 70% or higher (you must correctly answer 42 questions).

How Often Do I Need to Renew My License?

• Every two years.

Can I Take the Test Online?

• The initial Part 107 test must be taken in person at an authorized testing center.

Are There Restrictions on Where I Can Fly?

• Yes, you must check for airspace restrictions. Use tools like the B4UFLY app to identify no-fly zones.

Do I Need to Register My Business Drone?

Yes, if you are using a drone for business or commercial purposes, FAA registration is required, regardless of the drone's weight. Here are the details:

When You Need to Register a Business Drone

1. All drones used for commercial purposes must be registered with the FAA, regardless of weight.
2. If your drone weighs 55 lbs (25 kg) or more, additional requirements apply, such as registration through the FAA’s Aircraft Registry instead of the standard DroneZone process.

How to Register Your Business Drone

1. Visit the FAA DroneZone website.
2. Create an account or log in.
3. Register under the “Part 107 Commercial Operator” category.
4. Pay the $5 registration fee, valid for three years.

What Happens After Registration?

1. You’ll receive a unique registration number.
2. This number must be clearly displayed on your drone.
• Use a label, sticker, or marker, ensuring it’s visible on the drone’s exterior.

Other Requirements for Business Drone Operators

• You must have a Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107 license) to operate drones for commercial purposes.
• Follow all FAA Part 107 rules, including:
• Checking airspace restrictions before flying.
• Flying during daylight hours unless you have a waiver for nighttime operations.
• Operating below 400 feet and within visual line-of-sight.

 

Do I Need to Register My Recreational Drone?

When You Need to Register a Recreational Drone

1. Drones weighing 0.55 lbs (250 grams) or more must be registered with the FAA.
• This includes the weight of any payload (e.g., cameras or attachments).
2. Drones under 0.55 lbs (250 grams) do not need to be registered if used solely for recreational purposes.
• However, you must still follow FAA safety guidelines.

How to Register Your Drone

1. Visit the FAA DroneZone website.
2. Create an account or log in.
3. Register under the “Recreational Flyer” category.
4. Pay the $5 registration fee, valid for three years.

What Happens After Registration?

1. You’ll receive a unique registration number.
2. This number must be clearly displayed on your drone.
• Use a label, sticker, or marker to ensure visibility without opening the drone.

Other Requirements for Recreational Flyers

• Pass the Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) to legally fly your drone.
• Fly only for recreational purposes and adhere to Community-Based Organization (CBO) safety guidelines, including:
• Flying below 400 feet.
• Maintaining line-of-sight at all times.
• Avoiding controlled airspace unless you have prior authorization.