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How to get a Part 107 remote pilot certificate

Last updated 2026-11-12 · Published by Certloom Learning · Sources

You get a Part 107 remote pilot certificate by passing the FAA knowledge test (Unmanned Aircraft General, Small, or UAG) at a PSI testing center, then applying in the FAA IACRA system. The FAA emails a link to print a temporary certificate after the TSA security check, and a permanent card follows by mail.

Who is eligible?

The FAA lists four conditions for first-time pilots: be at least 16 years old, read, speak, write and understand English, be in a physical and mental condition to fly safely, and pass the UAG knowledge test. Part 107 does not require a medical certificate, but 14 CFR 107.17 bars you from flying if you know or have reason to know of a condition that could interfere with safe operation.

What are the steps for a first-time pilot?

StepWhat you doNotes
1Create an IACRA profile to get an FAA Tracking Number (FTN)Do this before you book the test
2Book the UAG test at an FAA-approved PSI centerBring a government photo ID
3Pass the UAG test60 scored questions, 70 percent to pass
4Complete FAA Form 8710-13 in IACRAEnter the 17-digit exam ID; it can take up to 48 hours to appear
5Wait for the TSA background check emailThe email explains how to print the temporary certificate
6Receive the permanent certificate by mailKeep the certificate accessible whenever you fly

Sources (checked 2026-11-12): FAA: Become a Certificated Remote Pilot; PSI UAG Information Bulletin (effective 29 Sep 2025).

What if I already hold a Part 61 pilot certificate?

You skip the knowledge test. You need a current flight review within 24 months, then complete the free online course Part 107 Small UAS Initial (ALC-451) on FAASafety.gov, apply in IACRA, and have a Flight Standards District Office, designated pilot examiner, airman certification representative or flight instructor validate your identity. Flight instructors cannot issue the temporary certificate. Source: FAA: Become a Certificated Remote Pilot, checked 2026-11-12.

How long does the certificate last?

The certificate itself does not expire, but you may only act as remote pilot in command if you completed knowledge recency within the previous 24 calendar months (14 CFR 107.65). See recurrent training.

What does the test cover?

Regulations, airspace and flight restrictions, weather, loading and performance, emergency procedures, crew resource management, radio communication, physiology, aeronautical decision-making, airport operations, maintenance and preflight, and night operations. The test guide has the weighting by area.

Free practice questions on this topic

3 original questions from the Sectional Cue bank. Try each one, then open the answer.

Knowledge test
1. A proctor catches an applicant using unauthorized notes during the knowledge test. What can follow?

  1. Only a failed result for that test, with a retest allowed after 14 days
  2. A 6-month ban that applies only to retaking the Part 107 knowledge test
  3. A 1-year ban on any FAA application or test, and possible action on certificates held
Show answer and explanation

C. A 1-year ban on any FAA application or test, and possible action on certificates held

Under 14 CFR 107.69(a)(6) and (b), using an unauthorized aid is prohibited, and the applicant is barred for 1 year from applying for any certificate, rating or authorization and from taking any FAA test. Section 107.69(c) also allows suspension or revocation of certificates already held. The penalty is far more than a failed test and is not limited to 6 months or to one test.

Source: 14 CFR 107.69

Part 61 pilot path
2. A flight instructor verifies a Part 61 pilot's identity for a remote pilot application. May the instructor issue a temporary remote pilot certificate?

  1. No, the applicant prints it after receiving an FAA email
  2. Yes, any certifying official who accepts the application may issue it
  3. Yes, if the instructor also holds a current remote pilot certificate
Show answer and explanation

A. No, the applicant prints it after receiving an FAA email

AC 107-2A paragraph 6.4.2 states that a flight instructor is not authorized to issue a temporary certificate; the applicant prints it after receiving an FAA email. Not every certifying official can issue one. Holding a remote pilot certificate does not give the instructor that authority.

Source: AC 107-2A, para 6.4.2

Alcohol offenses
3. A remote pilot flies a Part 107 job 4 hours after drinking. Apart from the operating violation, what effect can this act have on the pilot's certificate?

  1. None, because the penalty for this act is limited to a civil fine from the FAA
  2. Grounds for suspension or revocation, or denial for up to 1 year after the act
  3. An automatic certificate suspension that lasts exactly 8 hours
Show answer and explanation

B. Grounds for suspension or revocation, or denial for up to 1 year after the act

Under 14 CFR 107.57(b), committing an act prohibited by 91.17(a), such as acting within 8 hours of drinking, is grounds for suspension or revocation of a remote pilot certificate or denial of an application for up to 1 year after the act. The consequence is not limited to a fine. No rule imposes an automatic 8-hour suspension.

Source: 14 CFR 107.57(b); 14 CFR 91.17(a)

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Sources

How this page was made: written by Certloom Learning from the sources above, with the rules checked against the current regulation text. Practice items are original questions from the app's reviewed bank. Spot an error? certloomlearning@gmail.com.