5 Things No One Tells You About the Part 107 Drone Exam (Until It’s Too Late)
So you’ve decided to go legit and get your FAA Part 107 license. Nice. That means you’re ready to fly drones for business — whether that’s shooting cinematic real estate footage, surveying job sites, or just charging actual money for your smooth joystick skills.
But here’s the truth: the Part 107 test isn’t all drone specs and flight hacks. In fact, it’s surprisingly... aviation-y. Here are 5 things I learned from taking (and passing) the test — plus a few common traps that trip up even the most confident drone operators.
1. It’s an Airplane Test in Disguise
You thought this was going to be about drones? Cute. The Part 107 is mostly about airspace, aviation charts, and weather codes that look like something out of The Matrix. You'll need to read METARs, decode Class B vs Class D airspace, and understand runway patterns.
Gotcha alert: “Can you fly in Class C airspace without ATC permission?” (No. But nice try.)
2. Sectional Charts Are Your New Best Frenemy
Those colorful maps you’ve probably never seen before? Yeah, you’ll be spending a lot of time with them. They’re how the FAA makes sure you know where you’re allowed to fly — and more importantly, where not to.
Common mistake: Misreading the fine print on a chart and accidentally thinking you're in the clear. That could earn you a not-so-fun chat with the FAA.
3. Weather Questions Are Sneaky
METARs and TAFs are basically the FAA's version of a secret weather code. And you'll need to know how to read them like a pilot — because technically, now you are one.
Pro Tip: If a question makes you feel like you're deciphering a secret government message... you're probably on the right track.
4. The FAA Loves a Trick Question
Expect a bunch of these. They’ll ask things like:
“Can you fly beyond visual line of sight with binoculars?”
Nope. Eyes only.“Can you fly over people if they’re moving?”
Still nope. Unless you’ve got a waiver and a drone made of marshmallows.
Rule of thumb: If it sounds like a loophole, the answer is probably no.
5. It’s Not Just a Test — It’s a Mindset
The Part 107 is really about teaching you to think like an aviator — responsible, alert, and aware of what’s happening in the skies around you. It’s knowledge that’ll come in handy every time you plan a shoot near a stadium, hospital, or airport.
Bonus: Saying you're FAA-certified sounds way cooler than just “I have a drone.”
Wrapping It Up
The Part 107 exam is passable with solid prep — but it’s not something to wing (pun absolutely intended). Study smart, know your charts, and don’t skip the weather stuff.
If you’re a fellow drone pilot gearing up to take the test, or someone looking to hire a licensed operator, I’d love to connect. I promise not to talk about METARs at the first meeting.