Failing the FAA Part 107 knowledge test is more common than you might think — and it doesn't have to be the end of your path to becoming a licensed commercial drone pilot. In 2025, roughly 17% of test-takers did not pass on their first attempt. If you're in that group, take a breath. There's a clear road forward.
What Is the Part 107 Test?
The FAA's Part 107 certification — formally known as the Remote Pilot Certificate — is required for anyone flying a drone commercially in the United States. That includes everything from real estate photography and agricultural surveying to infrastructure inspection and film production. The 60-question knowledge exam covers airspace classifications, weather interpretation, flight operations, regulations, and crew resource management, among other topics.
It's not a simple test. The aeronautical knowledge required overlaps significantly with what manned aircraft student pilots study, and many drone operators come in without a traditional aviation background.
How Long Do You Have to Wait Before Retesting?
Under FAA rules, if you fail the Part 107 aeronautical knowledge test, you must wait 14 calendar days before you can retake it. That waiting period applies to each subsequent failure as well. Use that time wisely — it's your biggest asset.
What to Focus on When Studying Again
The testing center will provide you with a score report that breaks down your performance by subject area. This is your study roadmap. Don't just re-read everything from scratch — target your weakest areas first.
Common trouble spots for Part 107 test-takers include:
- Airspace classification — Understanding Class A through G airspace and the rules that apply in each
- Reading sectional charts — Interpreting aeronautical maps is a skill that takes practice
- Weather and METAR reports — Decoding aviation weather reports and understanding how conditions affect UAS operations
- Airport operations — Traffic patterns, runway identifiers, and communication procedures
- Loading and performance — Weight, balance, and how they affect unmanned aircraft systems
Study Resources Worth Using
Several well-regarded resources can help you prepare for a retake:
- FAA's official study guide — The FAA publishes free aeronautical knowledge study materials directly on its website
- Online prep courses — Platforms like Pilot Institute, UAV Coach, and DARTdrones offer structured courses specifically built around the Part 107 exam
- Practice tests — Repetition with timed practice exams helps build familiarity with question phrasing and format
- YouTube tutorials — Free video content covering sectional chart reading and weather interpretation is widely available
Don't Let a Failed Test Define Your Drone Career
A single failed attempt at the Part 107 exam is a setback, not a disqualifier. Many successful commercial drone pilots and UAV professionals have been exactly where you are now. The 14-day waiting period gives you a real opportunity to shore up weak areas and walk back into the testing center with more confidence and better preparation.
The drone industry continues to grow rapidly, with commercial UAV operations expanding across agriculture, construction, public safety, and delivery sectors. Getting your Part 107 certification opens the door to a wide range of professional opportunities — and it's absolutely worth the effort to pass.
Study smart, target your weak spots, and go get that certificate.