1. Know when Part 107 applies

The FAA says a Remote Pilot Certificate is required to fly under the Small UAS Rule. Part 107 covers many non-recreational small-drone operations, but the certificate is only one layer of a lawful mission. Airspace authorization, aircraft registration, Remote ID, operating limitations, waivers, and mission-specific rules may still matter.

Do not treat Part 107 as blanket permission for every job. For example, dispensing agricultural materials can involve a separate federal Part 137 path and state requirements.

2. Confirm eligibility

For a first-time remote pilot, the FAA currently lists three baseline conditions: be at least 16 years old; be able to read, speak, write, and understand English, subject to FAA exceptions; and be in a physical and mental condition to fly safely.

Existing Part 61 certificate holders may have a different route if they meet the FAA's flight-review condition. Use the FAA's two applicant paths instead of assuming the first-time process applies.

3. Prepare and create your FAA record

1. Study the subject areas in the FAA's current Remote Pilot knowledge-test guidance, including regulations, airspace, weather, loading and performance, emergency procedures, crew resource management, radio procedures, airport operations, maintenance, and aeronautical decision-making.
2. Create an IACRA account and obtain your FAA Tracking Number before scheduling the test.
3. Use the FAA testing page to locate an authorized testing center and confirm the current identification, scheduling, and fee requirements.

Commercial study courses can add structure, but they are not the issuing authority. Match any course outline against the current FAA material.

4. Take the initial knowledge test

First-time applicants take the Unmanned Aircraft General — Small knowledge test at an FAA-approved testing center. Bring the identification the FAA and test provider currently require. Keep the knowledge-test report after passing; its information is needed for the certificate application.

If you do not pass, use the official testing guidance for the current retest process rather than relying on an old waiting-period summary.

5. Complete the certificate application

Return to IACRA and complete the Remote Pilot application using the knowledge-test information. The FAA process includes identity and security checks. Follow IACRA's current prompts for electronic signature and processing.

The FAA may issue a temporary certificate in IACRA after successful processing, followed by the permanent certificate. Check the official FAA page for current timing; this guide does not promise a turnaround date.

6. Operate responsibly and stay current

A certificate is the start of operating responsibility. Before a mission, determine which rules apply, inspect the aircraft, assess airspace and conditions, brief participants, and keep required records. Register aircraft used under Part 107 through FAADroneZone and comply with Remote ID when applicable.

The FAA requires recurrent training to keep aeronautical knowledge current. Use the FAA's free online course path and confirm the current completion interval and course that applies to you. Keep your certificate and required documents available as the rules direct.

Continue to the Agriculture Drones guide when you are ready for the next operating topic.