Why You Need a Part 107 License to Fly a Drone Commercially
The rise of drone technology has unlocked incredible opportunities across various industries, from real estate and construction to photography and agriculture. But before you can start flying your drone for business purposes in the United States, there’s an important requirement: obtaining a Part 107 license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Whether you’re thinking of starting a drone service business or incorporating drones into your existing work, understanding the legal framework behind commercial drone operations is crucial. Here's why you need a Part 107 license and what it means for your business.
What is a Part 107 License?
The Part 107 license, formally known as the Remote Pilot Certificate, is issued by the FAA and allows individuals to operate drones (also called unmanned aircraft systems, or UAS) for commercial purposes. This certification applies to any drone weighing less than 55 pounds and includes activities such as aerial photography, surveying, inspections, and deliveries that are performed for hire or compensation.
The Part 107 license is essential if you plan to use your drone for anything other than recreational flying, which is strictly for personal enjoyment and does not involve monetary compensation.
Why You Need a Part 107 License for Commercial Drone Operations
It’s a Legal Requirement for Commercial Use
The FAA mandates that anyone who flies a drone for commercial purposes must have a Part 107 license. If you're using your drone to make money—whether through aerial photography, real estate marketing, videography, or even land surveying—you’re engaging in commercial operations. Flying without the proper certification can result in hefty fines, penalties, or the suspension of your ability to legally operate a drone. Adhering to the Part 107 requirements keeps your business above board and compliant with federal regulations.
Ensures Safety and Risk Mitigation
Part of obtaining a Part 107 license is demonstrating your knowledge of airspace regulations, weather patterns, and drone operation procedures. The FAA has established these rules to help ensure the safety of both drone operators and the public. As commercial drones become more common, there is an increased risk of accidents, particularly in populated or congested areas. By requiring commercial drone operators to understand flight safety, airspace classifications, and emergency procedures, the FAA helps minimize these risks.
Having a Part 107 license shows that you are a responsible operator who understands how to safely navigate the skies, reducing the risk of damage to property or injury to people.
Access to Controlled Airspace
If you want to fly your drone in controlled airspace (near airports or in densely populated urban areas), you’ll need special permission from the FAA, which is only granted to licensed drone pilots. A Part 107 license gives you access to request authorization to fly in these restricted areas. Without this certification, your drone operations will be limited to uncontrolled airspace, which could restrict your ability to take on certain commercial jobs.
Controlled airspace authorization is especially important if you plan to work in urban environments or near commercial infrastructure that may be within proximity to airports.
Building Trust with Clients
As drone services become more popular, clients are becoming savvier about what to expect from drone operators. Having a Part 107 license signals professionalism and credibility. It shows clients that you’ve taken the necessary steps to understand drone regulations and safety protocols and that you’re operating within the law. This can be a critical factor in building trust with your customers, especially when working on larger projects for corporate or government clients.
Many businesses or agencies will only hire licensed drone operators, so having a Part 107 certification gives you a competitive edge and allows you to take on more lucrative jobs.
Insurance and Liability Considerations
Most commercial drone insurance providers require that operators hold a Part 107 license to be eligible for coverage. Without the proper certification, obtaining liability or hull insurance for your drone can be difficult, leaving you vulnerable in case of an accident. Flying a drone comes with inherent risks—collisions, property damage, and even injuries can occur. Without insurance, a single incident could result in costly lawsuits that could bankrupt a business.
By obtaining a Part 107 license, you make it easier to get comprehensive insurance that protects you and your business from potential liabilities.
Knowledge of Airspace and Weather Conditions
Passing the Part 107 exam requires that you have a strong understanding of U.S. airspace, weather conditions, and operational limitations for drones. This knowledge is critical for making safe and informed decisions while flying your drone. For example, knowing how to read airspace maps will help you avoid flying in restricted areas, while understanding weather conditions like wind speed, turbulence, and visibility will ensure that you don’t endanger your drone or others during flight.
This technical knowledge is crucial for successfully and safely completing commercial drone jobs, especially in industries like construction, agriculture, and emergency response, where safety and precision are paramount.
Avoiding Penalties and Legal Issues
Operating a drone commercially without a Part 107 license is illegal and can lead to serious consequences. The FAA has the authority to levy substantial fines against individuals or businesses that violate drone regulations. In some cases, these fines can exceed tens of thousands of dollars, not to mention the potential for legal battles or loss of business credibility.
Getting licensed not only ensures that you're flying legally but also protects your business from unnecessary legal trouble or financial setbacks.
Stay Competitive in a Growing Market
As the drone industry continues to expand, so does the number of licensed operators. If you’re serious about making a career out of commercial drone services, getting your Part 107 license ensures that you can compete in a rapidly growing market. In the future, businesses and government agencies may mandate that all drone operators hold this certification, making it a baseline requirement for any professional drone work. By getting certified early, you position yourself as an expert in the field and stay ahead of competitors who may not yet have the proper credentials.
How to Get a Part 107 License
The process of obtaining a Part 107 license involves passing a written exam administered by the FAA. The test covers topics such as:
Airspace classifications and restrictions
Aviation weather sources and effects on flight
UAS performance and operations
FAA regulations and drone laws
Emergency procedures and safety protocols
The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, and you’ll need a score of at least 70% to pass. Once you’ve passed the test, you can apply for your Remote Pilot Certificate and begin flying drones commercially.
Conclusion: Why a Part 107 License is Essential for Commercial Drone Pilots
Getting a Part 107 license is not just about checking a legal box—it’s about ensuring that you’re a safe, knowledgeable, and responsible drone operator. Whether you’re capturing aerial footage, inspecting infrastructure, or delivering goods, having this certification opens up opportunities, keeps you compliant with FAA regulations, and protects your business from legal or financial risks.
As the commercial drone industry continues to grow, a Part 107 license will remain the foundation for anyone looking to succeed in this field. If you’re serious about using drones to boost your business or launch a new career, the Part 107 license is an essential step.
