The FAA Part 107 knowledge test can feel scary if you do not know what to expect. This guide breaks down the test format, what topics it covers, how scoring works, and tips to help you pass on your first try.
Test format and basics
The Part 107 initial knowledge test has 60 multiple-choice questions. You get 2 hours to finish. You take it in person at a PSI or CATS testing center. The cost is about $175.
You need a score of 70% or higher to pass. That means you can miss up to 18 questions and still pass. You get your score right away when you finish.
What topics does the Part 107 test cover?
The FAA test covers five main areas. Here is what you should study:
1. Airspace and sectional charts
This is the biggest topic on the test. You need to read sectional charts, identify airspace classes (B, C, D, E, G), and know where you can and cannot fly. Practice reading charts until you can spot airports, restricted areas, and airspace boundaries quickly.
2. Weather
You need to know how weather affects drone flights. Topics include METAR and TAF reports, cloud types, visibility, wind, and how temperature affects drone performance. You will not need to be a meteorologist, but you need to read a METAR and understand what it means.
3. Loading, performance, and weight
This section covers how weight and balance affect your drone. You need to know how payload changes affect flight time, altitude, and speed. High altitude and hot temperatures reduce performance. Know why.
4. Emergency procedures and crew resource management
What do you do if you lose signal? What if your drone flies into controlled airspace by accident? This section tests how you handle problems. Know the basic emergency steps and how to work with visual observers.
5. FAA Part 107 regulations
Know the rules. Max altitude (400 feet AGL), line-of-sight requirements, night flying rules, flying over people rules, and waiver requirements. This section is the most straightforward. Read the rules and memorize the numbers.
Tips to pass the Part 107 test
Take practice tests
The best way to prepare is to take Part 107 practice tests. They show you the question format and help you find weak spots. Aim to score 85% or higher on practice tests before you schedule the real one.
Focus on sectional charts
Sectional chart questions make up a large chunk of the test. Spend extra time learning to read them. Know the symbols for airports, airspace boundaries, and restricted areas.
Learn METARs and TAFs
Weather questions trip up many test-takers. Memorize the METAR format and practice decoding real weather reports. Once you learn the code, these questions become easy.
Do not rush
You have 2 hours for 60 questions. That is 2 minutes per question. Read each question carefully. Eliminate wrong answers first. Mark hard questions and come back to them.
What happens after you pass?
After you pass, apply for your Remote Pilot Certificate on IACRA. The TSA runs a background check. Once approved, you get a temporary certificate and can start flying commercially. Your certificate is good for 24 months. After that, you need to pass a recurrent test.
Tip: After you pass your Part 107, add your test date to DroneLog107. The app tracks your 24-month window and sends push reminders before your recurrent test is due. Free for one certificate.
What if I fail?
If you do not pass, you can retake the test after 14 days. You will need to pay the testing fee again. Use those 14 days to study the areas where you scored lowest. Your test results show which categories you need to improve.