Chapter 1 of 6
🚀 Getting Started: Understanding the Part 107 Exam
2 sections · read, flip the key terms, then check yourself.
1.1
Exam Structure, Scoring, and Test Day Preparation
Understanding the structure and scoring of the Part 107 exam is crucial for effective preparation. Knowing what to expect on test day, including the types of questions and how to navigate the test supplement, will significantly boost your confidence and performance, ensuring you're ready to earn your remote pilot certificate.
Exam Format and Content
The FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot knowledge test is a multiple-choice exam administered at authorized testing centers. It consists of 60 questions, and you are allotted 2 hours to complete it. Each question has three possible answer choices, only one of which is correct. The exam covers a broad range of topics essential for safe and legal drone operations. These include regulations (Part 107), airspace classification and requirements, weather reporting and forecasts, loading and performance, emergency procedures, aeronautical decision-making (ADM), airport operations, and maintenance and preflight inspection procedures. While the exam doesn't require memorizing every regulation verbatim, it tests your understanding of how to apply them in various operational scenarios.
Scoring and Passing Requirements
To pass the Part 107 knowledge test, you must achieve a score of 70% or higher. This means you need to correctly answer at least 42 out of the 60 questions. There is no penalty for guessing, so it's always best to answer every question, even if you're unsure. Upon completion of the test, you will receive a score report. If you pass, this report will serve as proof of passing and is required when applying for your Remote Pilot Certificate through the Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) system. If you do not pass, the report will indicate the areas where you performed poorly, which can help you focus your studies for a retest. You must wait 14 calendar days before retaking the exam.
Navigating the Test Supplement
During the exam, you will be provided with an Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement (FAA-CT-8080-2H or current version). This supplement contains figures, charts, legends, and other information that you will need to answer many of the test questions. It includes sectional chart excerpts, weather reports (METARs, TAFs), airport diagrams, performance charts, and other reference materials. Familiarity with this supplement is critical. Practice locating information quickly and accurately before your test day. Many questions require you to interpret data from these figures, so understanding how to read and use them is as important as knowing the regulations themselves. You will not be allowed to bring your own copy of the supplement into the testing room, but you can download and study it beforehand.
Test Day Preparation and Strategy
Preparation for test day goes beyond just studying the material. Ensure you get a good night's sleep and eat a healthy meal before the exam. Arrive at the testing center early to allow time for check-in and to settle in. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport) and any required authorization from the FAA (if applicable). You will be provided with scratch paper and a basic calculator. During the exam, read each question carefully and consider all answer choices before selecting the best one. If you encounter a difficult question, mark it for review and move on. You can return to it later if time permits. Don't rush, but also be mindful of your time. Use the entire 2 hours if you need it. Double-check your answers if you finish early.
- 1📚 Study & PracticeMaster topics, use practice tests
- 2🗓️ Schedule ExamBook at authorized testing center
- 3⏰ Arrive EarlyCheck-in, present valid ID
- 4📝 Take Exam60 questions, 2 hours, use supplement
- 5💯 Receive ResultsImmediate score report given
- 6✅ Apply for CertificateUse IACRA with passing score
📌 Flight example: Interpreting a Sectional Chart
You're asked a question about operating your drone near an airport, and the question includes an excerpt from a sectional chart. You need to determine the airspace classification and any restrictions.
What to do: Locate the corresponding sectional chart excerpt in the Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement. Identify the airport, its surrounding airspace boundaries, and any associated symbols or numbers that indicate altitude limits or special use airspace. Use the chart legend if needed to interpret symbols.
Takeaway: Proficiency with the test supplement, especially sectional charts, is vital for answering airspace-related questions.
📌 Flight example: Weather Report Analysis
A question presents a METAR (Aviation Routine Weather Report) and asks about the current weather conditions at a specific airport for a planned drone operation.
What to do: Find the METAR in the test supplement. Decode the elements of the METAR, such as wind direction and speed, visibility, cloud cover and height, temperature, and dew point. Apply this information to assess if the conditions are suitable for your planned flight under Part 107 rules.
Takeaway: Understanding how to read and interpret weather reports is crucial for safe and compliant drone operations.
Key terms — tap to check
Memory trick: For 'Test Day Success': T - Time management, E - Eat well, S - Sleep soundly, T - Take your ID.
Common mistakes
- Not practicing with the Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement, leading to slow or incorrect interpretation of figures and charts.
- Rushing through questions or not reading them carefully, causing misinterpretation of the scenario or requirements.
- Forgetting essential identification documents on test day, which can prevent you from taking the exam.
What is the minimum passing score for the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot knowledge test?
1.2
Navigating the Airman Certification Standards (ACS)
Understanding the Airman Certification Standards (ACS) is crucial for passing your Part 107 exam. It's the FAA's official blueprint, telling you exactly what knowledge and skills you need to demonstrate. Think of it as your study guide directly from the source, ensuring you focus on what truly matters for safe and legal drone operations.
What is the ACS?
The Airman Certification Standards (ACS) is a comprehensive document published by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that defines the aeronautical knowledge, risk management, and flight proficiency standards for various airman certificates and ratings. For remote pilots, the relevant document is the Remote Pilot – Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) Airman Certification Standards (FAA-S-ACS-10). It replaces the older Practical Test Standards (PTS) and provides a more integrated approach to testing. The ACS links specific knowledge areas and tasks directly to FAA regulations (14 CFR), advisory circulars, and other official publications, ensuring that all tested material is current and relevant.
Structure of the Remote Pilot ACS
The Remote Pilot ACS is organized into several major sections, each addressing a critical aspect of remote pilot operations. These sections are further broken down into specific tasks, knowledge elements, and associated risk management elements. Each task includes references to the applicable regulations or publications where the information can be found. For example, you'll find sections dedicated to Regulations, Airspace, Weather, Loading and Performance, and Operations. Within each section, specific knowledge elements are listed, such as 'Applicable regulations relating to remote pilot privileges, limitations, and flight operation' or 'Sources for weather information'. This detailed breakdown helps you understand exactly what the FAA expects you to know.
How the ACS Guides Your Study
The ACS is your primary study guide for the Part 107 exam. Every question on the knowledge test is derived from the knowledge elements outlined in the ACS. By systematically going through each section and its associated knowledge elements, you can ensure comprehensive preparation. Don't just skim it; use it as a checklist. For each knowledge element, ask yourself if you understand the concept and can apply it. If not, refer to the cited regulations or FAA handbooks for detailed information. This targeted approach prevents you from studying irrelevant material and maximizes your efficiency.
Connecting ACS to the Exam
When you take the Part 107 knowledge test, each question will directly assess your understanding of one or more knowledge elements from the ACS. The test questions are designed to evaluate not just rote memorization, but also your ability to apply knowledge to realistic operational scenarios. For instance, a question about airspace might require you to interpret a sectional chart and apply airspace rules, directly linking to the 'Airspace Classification and Operating Requirements' section of the ACS. Familiarity with the ACS ensures you recognize the underlying concepts being tested, even if the question is phrased differently than you expected.
- 1📄 Start with ACSReview the official FAA document
- 2🔍 Identify Knowledge AreasSee what topics are covered
- 3📚 Study ResourcesUse regulations, handbooks, courses
- 4📝 Practice QuestionsTest your understanding
- 5🔄 Review & RefineGo back to weak areas
- 6✅ Exam ReadyConfident for the Part 107 test
- ↻ …and the cycle repeats
📌 Flight example: Pre-flight Weather Briefing
You're planning a commercial drone operation for aerial photography near a busy airport. The ACS lists 'Sources for weather information' as a knowledge element under 'Weather and Its Effects on sUAS Performance'.
What to do: You would consult official FAA weather sources like Aviation Weather Center (aviationweather.gov) or DUATS (Direct User Access Terminal System) to get a comprehensive weather briefing, checking for winds, visibility, and precipitation. This directly fulfills the ACS requirement.
Takeaway: The ACS tells you what information you need to know, not just how to get it.
📌 Flight example: Airspace Identification
Your client wants you to fly your drone in an area that appears to be near a Class D airport on a sectional chart. The ACS specifies 'Airspace Classification and Operating Requirements' as a key area.
What to do: You would use your knowledge from the ACS to correctly identify the airspace as Class D, understand the requirements for operating in it (e.g., ATC authorization), and then obtain the necessary authorization before flight. This demonstrates practical application of ACS knowledge.
Takeaway: The ACS ensures you know how to apply airspace rules in real-world scenarios.
Key terms — tap to check
Memory trick: ACS: Always Consult Standards! It's your map to passing the test and flying safely.
Common mistakes
- Ignoring the ACS and relying solely on third-party study guides that might not cover all required topics.
- Memorizing facts without understanding their practical application, which is often tested in scenario-based questions.
- Not checking the latest version of the ACS, as it can be updated by the FAA.
What is the primary purpose of the Airman Certification Standards (ACS) for remote pilots?