The Operations Over People rule became effective on April 21, 2021. Drone pilots operating under Part 107 may fly at night, over people and moving vehicles without a waiver as long as they meet the requirements defined in the rule. Airspace authorizations are still required for night operations in controlled airspace under 400 feet.
If you have a small drone that is less than 55 pounds, you can fly for work or business by following the Part 107 guidelines. To fly under Part 107 rules, there are 3 main steps.
Step 1: Learn the Rules
Make sure you understand what is and is not allowed under Part 107 rules.
If you are not sure if Part 107 rules work for you and your intended operation check our user identification tool.
Some operations will require a waiver. Here are the regulations specified in §107.205 that are subject to waiver:
- Operation from a moving vehicle or aircraft - §107.25
- Operation at Night - §107.29(a)(2) and (b)
- Visual line of sight aircraft operation - §107.31
- Visual observer - §107.33
- Operation of multiple small unmanned aircraft systems - §107.35
- Yielding the right of way - §107.37(a)
- Operation over human beings - §107.39
- Operation in certain airspace - §107.41
- Operating limitations for small unmanned aircraft - §107.51
- Operations Over Moving Vehicles - §107.145
Learn more about Part 107 Waivers.
Drone operators should avoid flying near airports because it is difficult for manned aircraft to see and avoid a drone while flying. Remember that drone operators must avoid manned aircraft and are responsible for any safety hazard their drone creates in an airport environment.
Step 2: Become an FAA-Certified Drone Pilot by Passing the Knowledge Test
To be eligible to get your Remote Pilot Certificate, you must be:
- At least 16 years old
- Able to read, write, speak, and understand English
- Be in a physical and mental condition to safely fly a UAS
Study for the Knowledge Test
Review Knowledge Test Suggested Study Materials provided by the FAA.
Obtain an FAA Tracking Number (FTN)
- Create an Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) profile prior to registering for the knowledge test.
Schedule an Appointment
- Take the Knowledge Test at an FAA-approved Knowledge Testing Center.
Complete FAA Form 8710-13
- Once you've passed your test, for a remote pilot certificate (FAA Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application) login the FAA Integrated Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application system (IACRA)* to complete FAA form 8710-13.
- Review the full process to get your Remote Pilot Certificate.
Step 3: Register your Drone with the FAA
Registration costs $5 and is valid for 3 years. You'll need a credit or debit card and the make and model of your drone handy in order to register. Learn more about registering your drone.
- Create an account and register your drone at FAADroneZone. Select "Fly sUAS under Part 107."
- Once you've registered, mark your drone (PDF) with your registration number in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Beginning September 16, 2023, if your drone requires an FAA registration number it will also be required to broadcast Remote ID information (unless flown within a FRIA). For more information on drone registration, visit How to Register Your Drone.
Visiting from another country? Using a foreign-registered drone? Be sure to check out our page: International UAS Operators in the United States
Learn more about Registration and Marking Requirements for Small Unmanned Aircraft, 14 CFR part 48.
Remember
- Always fly your drone safely and within FAA guidelines and regulations.
- It is up to you as a drone pilot to know the rules of the sky, and where it is and is not safe to fly.
- Aren't sure if Part 107 is right for you and your operation? Contact us for more information.
Last updated: Tuesday, August 08, 2023
