If you are interested in flying drones commercially, you will need to obtain a UAV pilot license, also known as a Part 107 license in the United States. This license is required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to operate drones for business purposes.
To get your UAV pilot license, you must be at least 16 years old, speak and understand English, be in a physical and mental condition to safely operate a drone, and pass the FAA’s Aeronautical Knowledge Test.
The Aeronautical Knowledge Test covers topics such as airspace classification, reading aeronautical charts, weather effects on drone flights, and drone flight operations. You can prepare for the test by studying the FAA’s Remote Pilot – Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Study Guide.
Once you pass the Aeronautical Knowledge Test, you can apply for your UAV pilot license online through the FAA’s Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) system. You will need to undergo a TSA background check before receiving your license.