People call it a "drone license," a "drone pilot license," or a "remote pilot certificate." Are these different things? No. They are all the same document. Here is why the names are confusing and what you actually need.
They are the same thing
The FAA calls it a "Remote Pilot Certificate with a Small UAS Rating." That is the official name. But most people say "drone license" because it is shorter and easier to say. Both terms mean the same thing: you passed the Part 107 knowledge test and the FAA gave you permission to fly a drone for work.
Why the names are confusing
The FAA does not use the word "license" for drone pilots. They use "certificate." This is because "license" has a specific meaning in aviation law. But the internet, Google, and most people use "drone license." Both terms show up in search results. Both mean Part 107.
- Remote Pilot Certificate = the FAA's official name
- Drone license = what most people call it
- Part 107 license = another common name
- UAS certificate = less common, same thing
What about drone registration?
Drone registration is different from a drone license. Registration is for the drone itself. You register each drone on the FAA DroneZone website. It costs $5 and lasts 3 years. Your Part 107 certificate is for you, the pilot. You need both: a certificate for yourself and a registration for each drone.
Track everything in one place
DroneLog107 tracks your Remote Pilot Certificate, UAS registrations, and waivers in one app. It sends reminders before anything expires. Free for one certificate.