Greetings! If you are like me and want to get certified to fly a drone for non-recreational purposes then you are probably looking into taking the FAA Remote Pilot Knowledge Exam. I recently passed and I wanted to share the steps that I took to receive the certification and what I used to study.
Cheers and happy flying!
Steps to Obtain Certification:
- Learn the FAA part 107 Rules
- Study for the Knowledge Test
- Obtain a FAA Tracking Number (FTN)
- Schedule an Appointment to take the Exam (At an FAA approved Testing Center)
- Once you pass, fill out FAA Form 8710-13
- Register your drone with the FAA
Study Tools:
There are tons of resources online available to help you pass this exam. I wanted to share a few that helped me (These links are being provided as a convenience and for informational purposes only; they do not constitute an endorsement or an approval by Oregon State University).
- First and foremost, I read through the study guide provided by the FAA and highlighted key terms and ideas.
- Then I watched this video by Tony Northrup that really goes through the basics and took notes.
- Downloaded an app on my phone called “107 Pilot.” It was $5.00 and had tons of practice questions that I could go through until I felt extremely comfortable with the information.
- Took a PSI Practice exam.
- The FAA test, practice exams, and practice questions on the app are supported by a series of supplemental publications. These publications include the graphics, legends, and maps that are needed to successfully respond to certain test questions. The supplemental graphics are necessary to assist in answering questions on the exam referring to figures. It is available here.
- If you are like me and have no prior aviation knowledge or experience, I had a hard time nailing down some concepts about METARS & TAFS, airspace, weather, and chart reading. Here are some supplemental youtube videos I found helpful.
