Since I'm in my 70's there is no way I was going to pass the exam with just self study. I chose Pilot Institute but, like you say, all the course providers are good. For me, it helped keep me focused and helped me better prepare in the areas where I was the weakest like charts and weather terminology. The guarantee also provides no risk but if you follow the courses and properly study there's almost no way you can fail. I definitely feel more confident and knowledgable knowing I have that card in my wallet when I'm out flying.
Russ, thanks for spurring me on to get my Pt. 107. Today, after a week of intensive study and practice testing, I passed w/ 92% Your videos have inspired me greatly on my new hobby w/ my mini 4 pro 👍
I was one who took the exam without any formal training. I did not see a need, but I tend to study very well and was familiar with most of the material just from having an interest in general aviation. I used the Northrup video and then six days of cramming with the Prepware app on my phone any time I had five minutes. For me, it was the weather stuff that I had to crunch on. It didn't register when I watched the video. At the time, I took the exam just to gain knowledge and be prepared as I had been offered money for some images I took when I acquired my first drone. (I also took the GMAT just for fun, so I may not be normal.) I found the pricing varied by airport locally - it was more at the major airport nearby than at my local GA airport. Not sure if that's changed. Lastly, if anyone uses the Northrup video, note that two major topics have changed - operations over people and moving vehicles and night operations. There is plenty of free targeted training material for these 2021 updates.
I would like to get the certificate. I know nothing about drones but have wanted to learn for some time now. I also do not have the money for the drone or radio. I thought about saving up and getting it a piece at a time but have not been able to do it that way. But the Certificate would push me forward to do it. Thank you for the content, as always.
When I started looking into getting my part 107 cert back in 2018, my social media got predictably flooded with ads for sites like Drone Pilot Ground School and Pilot Institute. I honestly just assumed they were all scams. I used only the FAA provided materials and passed the test on my first try (90%). However, I have since met many part 107 pilots who used these places and not one has ever said anything negative. I also have seen in the last few years that they do more than just advertise their services, they provide much needed awareness and advocacy. I may not have ever used these online courses, and I'm not a paid commenter, but if you're struggling with the FAA provided material, I think you'd be in good hands with them.
Yes over winter for my landscaping company as I am furthering my company posting videos so I need my certificate 😉 Glad you mentioned that as I thought it was just if you directly made money off, like making a video for a real estate agent. Your videos are rhe best and organized too! Thanks!!! Hoping to make this another career at some point! Have always flown ar airplanes and chepa drones in-between but now i went into a dji mini 4 pro and love it! 😊
One of my clients is a big landscaping company. I have had an experience many years ago with a drone job. A neighbor sued the business because his house was in the commercial. Now I’m very cautious when doing a video. Rule of thumb dealing with HOAs get the management company or your account manager to let the board know. Email is your friend here. Some residents get involved and want their property in a video. This will be my second winter but first drone in the snow. I’m wishing for snow
Great informative video as usual Russ, and you are right about online course. They do help a lot. I personally already enrolled with the one from Pilot Institute to get my part107 done.
I have been flying drones from the Hubsan H501S, The FIMI X8 2020 and 2022 series as well as a DJI Mini SE. I am registered with the FAA. But at age 67 I am not flying as much as I used to. I really have no interest in a part 107 Certification, mainly due to the cost of the exam, and the cost of preparing for it.
That is who I used for my school (and also a free app) just a couple months ago. It covered quite a bit but I wouldn't say it was 100% for what I faced in the test. I did pass with a 90 so the reality is that I was more than prepared. I am also taking their mapping course now even though I already perform mapping and processing, so that says something.
Reading a few of the comments that state they fly without a license is a bit arrogant. I hope they understand the airspace they fly in. Granted, the drone curriculum doesn't seem to match, but it's good general knowledge. I'm 60 and would never pass medical. I've always wanted to be a pilot but manned aircraft is too expensive. Being a Drone Pilot is the hill I will fight for.
Have a couple drones...son in law gave me his old DJI Phantom and my wife bought me a DEERC...I've been looking at the Potensic but haven't decided completely. I definitely want to get the part 107.
Just bought a DJI Mini 4 Pro to make training videos at work and had no idea what it would take to get a license. I'm now definitely looking into UAV Coach. Thanks! By the way, you can stop stumbling over the word certificated, you can acceptably say certified.
I am thinking of getting part 107. I am 70 so I do not plan on making a lot of money. I have had a drone for about 5 months. Just interested in leaning 😊
@william9213 I took the test at the age of 58 and I needed a magnifying glass to read the sectional charts. I took one of the online classes and really liked the whole experience of learning something new.
@@toms6756 One other question Russ. Would you suggest Mini 4 pro or Air 3 as my next drone? I am very happy with Potensic Atom but I may want to experience DJI 😊
I took it in 2023 and passed. The fonts are small and they give you a magnify glass during the test to identify the subject matter better . One advantage with the Air 3 is that it can handle the wind little better.
I just bought a holy stone hs720e off Facebook marketplace. I’m on the northwest ish corner of the Boise airport so I’m trying to learn all I can about being a drone certified pilot and possibly soon make money. I just subscribed as I’m thinking about the drone course you took. No questions yet
I just returned this drone because it wouldn't record to the SD card. The app also didn't give me any camera setting options like its supposed to. Good luck with yours but for me it just wasn't good enough. Hoping to get a dji air 3 one day.
I'm curious about it, simply because I've recently been researching about drones and getting into the hobby (informationally). I just bought a drone, a little baby one, and flew it for a few weeks to see if I like it (I was pretty sure I was gonna but I just wanted to be sure) and now I bought a "real" one. A DJI Mini 3 Pro and I'm eagerly impatiently waiting for it to be ship. I'll see where I am in 6 mon with regard to wanting to do commercial stuff.
I'm enrolled in a trade school that involves drone training for one day. When I heard that this was involved in my curriculum, it sparked my interest. My main goal within finishing this course is to find a promising career that has great work/life balance. Is it worth it for people like me to invest in becoming a drone pilot? Seems like a pretty cool job! Thank you and God bless!
i have had 1 paying gig. i did not get much for it but, i am still glad i got part 107. i took my class from another company who does not sponsor this channel, so i wont plug him. think accented guy. i took the class, i am glad i did, and i would be glad to do it again even if i never have another paying gig. if my neighbor asks me to look at his gutters? i want to say yes to him even if hes my neighbor, i like him, and i am doing it for free.
Thanks for the video, Russ. I obtained my Part 107 certificate earlier this year. I used Pilot Institute for my training and Greg Reverdiau’s instruction was very thorough, and well worth paying for. I wanted the 107 so I could use drone photos to add to my photo business’s capabilities. However, registering with the state and paying a high price for insurance which is required in Minnesota, makes it less feasible. What has your experience been with such “extra” set-up costs?
I am a “certified commercial drone pilot through the FAA” would be the correct way to say it I believe. That’s my opinion though 🤷🏼♂️🤙🏼 certificated= certified…
@ I used a course that my school paid for called USI, but honestly what helped me the most was a free practice exam called King Test, very similar questions to what’s on the real exam and allows you to customize the test to types of questions you struggle with, over all if you already have basic knowledge on aviation regulations and engineering it shouldn’t be to hard.
Thank you for all of the great info. I've got a question about needing a part 107 certification to use your drone for non profit organizations for example church functions? Ive tried looking it up but with no luck. Thank you again for the time you put into your content.
You will get different answers from different people based on their view of what 'purely recreational' means, I suggest you email the FAA UAS Support Center to get an answer from the horses mouth (YT is not allowing me to give you the email address, but google it). There are some who seem to believe that as soon as you turn the camera on and show someone the video you are no longer recreational. I am not one of those people. However, in my opinion, you would clearly need a 107 for using your drone for a non profit organization such as a church. It may be silly because nobody would (should) question flying your drone at a church function, with the camera turned off, just for fun. That same flight with the camera rolling and you share the video with the church then that is different under the regs, being considered good will to an organization. So it's not about the flight, not about safety, as it's about what you intend to do with the video afterwards. I should note that I am keying off the word 'for' in your question of "use your drone for non profit organizations". If you change the word 'for' to 'at', then you get a different answer potentially. For example, hypothetically, if your family was attending a church function and you wanted to get video of your family at the church function to be included in the rest of your collection of family photos and videos, then the answer is different (imho). It goes without saying that all other rules (e.g. not flying over people etc) apply as always. I did email the FAA a question about recreationally flying a drone at a wedding and got the answer below, which provides guidance on what is and is not recreational generally. It supports my position, but recommend you ask them yourself rather than taking some guy on the internet's word for it. FAA response: It is basically an issue of intent. It is an erroneous assumption that if you are not being directly paid for drone operations then you do not need a Part 107 remote pilot certificate. Financial compensation, or the lack of it, is not the determinant for the type of operation you are conducting. It's not what you take a photo/video of, rather, it's if your intent is to use that media for any other purpose than recreation. Simply posting media to social media or sharing it with others does not negate your recreational purpose. However, if your intent is to post to social media or share with others to generate revenue, advertise your business/organization, etc., that would be considered Part 107. It is important to reiterate that revenue is not the trigger. Direct financial compensation It is but one way to show that the operation is not purely recreational. However, you do not have to receive revenue for a flight to be non-recreational. You could generate good will or other non-monetary value. Getting eyes on your footage if it is your “product” (like a videographer for weddings) would be deemed a non-recreational operation. Even if the footage is not the product, advertising is also a non-recreational op. Does posting/sharing the video serve a business purpose, including (but not limited to) generating revenue, good will, and/or advertising? If yes, then you are governed by Part 107. If no, then you may operate under the exception for recreation providing you comply with all of its provisions. Steve
The key word here is “intent”. It is virtually impossible to evaluate intent after the fact. For example, if you were to fly your drone over a church function, even while recording, as long as you determine that your intent at the time of flying was only for your enjoyment, then it does not by all definition fit under Title 14 Subtitle B (commercial operation basically). If you donate the photos to the church afterwards, it doesn’t matter. Your intent at the time of flying was for recreational use. Even if you were flying with the intent to further the church, and you lied, saying your intent was for recreation, there is no possible way for the FAA to prove so. Bottom line, the FAA will never, ever, ever investigate you for capturing aerial photos for a church function. I would bet my kidney on it.😀
I am now interested in getting my part 107 The only downside for me is having to give up a great insurance policy from State farm that has bailed me out on multiple occasions I believe they only cover recreational users. It is time to move up in the world and I'm going to take the course you recommended thank you
@@51Drones Russ, I'm fortunate to have a flight instructor in my neighborhood, and he's helping me prepare for the 107 exam. He's telling me I have to register with IACRA before I can take the test, and that in my home state of North Carolina, I also need to take a state-level exam which is very similar to the 107 test to get a NC license. I haven't heard you mention IACRA so I thought other people interested in 107 should know. Thanks
@@orlandocruzlopez3536 I can't register to take the 107 exam without an FTN, and that is only supplied after registering with IACRA. What you said is also true; after passing the exam the results are recorded in IACRA. After watching the RUclips video again, I did hear IACRA mentioned.
I been flying drones for 7-8 years & want to start making money doing it so I definitely need to take the FAA 107 course. What is the easiest way to make money flying drones? Realtor?
Hi 51D. I'm planning my trip to US this year to visit my family there. I'm from Poland but living in UK. I have my drone license 3 years already and flying at many contries since 3 years. What I need to fly legal during my US visit? Do I need remite pilot certificate or part 107 to do so? Maybe you can record some episode of 51 Drones about this?!
Hi Robert. If your a planning to fly your drone for recreational purposes only then you just have to take The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). You can do it online for free.
I'd love to get my Part 107 Certificate, But I am an American Citizen living in China, and it is as far as I know physically not possible to get the Part 107 Certificate while living abroad. To be honest this saddens me because I like to have the Certificate before I get back so I can hit the ground running for commercial drone flying.I really wish the FAA had an online test certification program. Of course only available to U.S. Citizens verified via Passport, or another option would be to set up testing sites around the world through the U.S Embassy or something to that nature.Seriously if you can get a collage degree online, why not a Part 107 Certificate
I have all kinda course and cerificates and now another one so i give up all this crap i use the drone maybe 5 times in a year and i also have insurance on it so i skip more crap now to use drone legally, this is in Norway i am sure all kinda new rules also came here.😞😞
There are definite downsides for anyone who plans on flying only as a hobbyist if they have a Part 107 certificate. Do your research or else you’ll find yourself under more strict restrictions than those that do not have a Part 107.
Dang man you stirred up a hornets nest reading through some of the comments. lol. Great info as always. I do have a question about mapping. Do you knkw if the Air 3 is capable of that type of work? Im on the fence of what “work” drone to get at the moment. I have plenty of “fun” drones but I’m retiring in October and wanna get the drone stuff up and running sometime next year. At least I’m certificated already. Hahaha. I know that’s the right word but it still makes me laugh.
I am 76 years old and received my 107 certificate yesterday. I have been a private pilot since 1972 and a a&p mechanic since 82. Yes this helped but I did take a course and probable would not have passed without doing that,as it was the test was way harder then I expected. It had many trick questions and did not follow the usual two totally wrong answers and one correct one. Almost all the questions had three answers that were very close to being right... a lot of questions that I knew from experience but there were questions that I had absolutely no idea the answer. All this being said, yes there is stuff on the exam that a drone pilot will NEVER need or use, but it is the faa and you got to play their game if you want to do it legally.. I now am going for a part 137 certificate to do agricultural spraying. This is going to be tough. I am having a hard time finding study guides for it so if anyone knows of any I would appreciate you sharing...thanks
Nope. I do drone jobs and I've never got a 107 and never will. I said when I get enough work to pay for those license I'll get them. I get like 1 job a month and I'm well known in my town and surrounding areas.
$170 is absolutely overcharged for such a non mandatory certificate. $20 would be fair price. I even got mine for free but is only valid for 5 years and then needs to be renewed. Nobody really cares. It's more like certified drone pilot (UAS).
@@pablojunior96 idk, on their website it clearly said it would cost me money but then sent me an email saying that I would receive a bill later somewhen and being charged. That was on August, 5th 2023. I've never heard from them ever since and haven't paid for anything. It's pretty unusual because normally the payment is processed at the checkout before taking the exam. The certificate is valid now for the next 5 years.
there should be a disclaimer at the beginning of the video that says "this is an advertorial". I will want the 8 minutes of life back on my deathbed wasted on listening to these mouth sounds.
So, I should spend $175 to keep the Karens at bay? If someone wants to learn more about something, they should research it. More power to them, but mandating with fees is typical of government control. We overregulate everything in this country. BTW - What's the $175 go to?
Of all the topics in this video to discuss, debate, ask questions about, it seems very weird to me that this question of the word got so much attention. As Jeff Foxworthy might put it, You might be pedantic if ....
Thanks Russ. Your first reason should probably include "any flying other than purely recreational" since that's the biggest misunderstanding about Part 107. In other words, there are many who want to do non-recreational flying that is NOT compensated or performed in furtherance of a going concern and for that they need a Part 107. FYI, the term is "FAA Certified". "Certificated" is an unnecessary construct, similar to "incentivize".
"non-recreational flying that is NOT compensated or performed in furtherance of a going concern" What are you thinking here? Not sure what you are thinking here, but I occasionally come across this view point that "purely recreational" is a very narrow thing, and almost always, I don't think it's as narrow as they suggest.
@@RebelByNature The FAA is very clear. Recreational is just that: for fun/pure enjoyment. Anything else, whether for money or not, is non-recreational. Inspecting your neighbor's roof in exchange for a pizza (this is what my neighbor offers me each time); taking photos to sell your home; making a video for your church, school or child's sports league; taking a photo for your family business website - these are all examples where no money exchanges hands, but the flights must be conducted under Part 107 rules. Further, if you do fly recreationally, remember that you must fly under the rules of one of four Community-Based Organizations (CBOs).
@@markkempton4579 Ok, I agree with all your examples except for the pizza from your neighbor 😀 That might be like going 56 mph in a 55 mph zone. All of those other examples, imho, fall under the good will towards an organization. I guess I misunderstood your original statement which I thought was saying that there were non recreational flights but neither compensated nor good will towards an organization and following all the other recreational rules.
@@RebelByNatureI was corrected on this about five years ago when I was speaking with the FAA Drone Hotline folks. As you suggest, they insisted that "purely recreational" was indeed a very narrow consideration that they likened to flying a kite: purely for the joy of flying and absolutely nothing else. This position has been stated to me repeatedly in the intervening years by every single FAA staffer with whom I've spoken or emailed. Please don't take my word for it. Ask them yourself. I speak or with or email FAA staffers on a weekly basis, both at my area FSDO and at the Hotline. They are really helpful and will be glad to explain their position. The reason I brought this up is because there are many people I've encountered that have no interest in making money or supporting a business but they would love to volunteer their services in furtherance of a municipality, a school, a church, or other not-for-profit organization. This is of course not purely recreationl and therefore requires a Part 107.
Making money is the lead star for many Americans. Money buys everything... Is there no value to just have fun? Passing 70, the body sets limits, but fiddling with 2 joysticks and some buttons, no problem. Okey. I admit I saved a video telling hoe to record properties for sale. No real respons from the real estate agent yet.....
Nah, its American, dont let anyone tell you need a certificate to fly your drone Stay away from airports and other sensitive areas and you will be alright
In the US, even if flying for recreational purposes you still have to pass the TRUST test and receive a certificate to fly. And you have to register your drone with the FAA if 250 grams and above. Suggesting to “simply stay away from airports and other sensitive areas and you will be alright” is very irresponsible regardless of what country you are in.
And you're the kind of person who will ruin it for everyone. Do you tell your kids they do not need a driver's license to drive on public roads, too? There's more than just "stay away from airports". Do not fly over people or moving vehicles. Do not fly near a stadium during a major sporting event. Do not operate from national parks. Do not fly at night without a strobe light visible from the air for three statute miles. You do not need a Part 107, but you need to pass a basic TRUST exam/training.
You do need the TRUST. Plain and simple. Too many rogues who hurt the drone community. We can't get loosened rules like VLOS to get to BVLOS for everyone.
In 1980 where were 200,000 student pilots ($3K to become a pilot), 2020 48,476 ($15K~$30K). The FAA infrastructure has collapsed compared to the 80ites, the billion dollar 'drone' market promises a new money stream and it will be milked until they destroy it also, like they have general aviation. The current Part 107 test has very little to do with flying a drone, there is nothing about the technology of UAS aircraft, they refuse to admit the RPIC visibility is far superior to a PIC of a General Aviation aircraft. I know of zero drone pilots that carry sectional charts when they fly, that is what apps are for, weather, with VLOS and 30 minute flight time? I know how to use my antique AM Aircraft radio to get weather reports using the sectional charts for radio channel/frequency, I do have issues lugging the 24 volt battery for it around. If you throw something into the air it will fall back, I'm amazed the FAA has not created a new Part with rules controlling this behavior, someone could be killed! Perhaps the FAA could expand the TRUST test to include this?
Since I'm in my 70's there is no way I was going to pass the exam with just self study. I chose Pilot Institute but, like you say, all the course providers are good. For me, it helped keep me focused and helped me better prepare in the areas where I was the weakest like charts and weather terminology. The guarantee also provides no risk but if you follow the courses and properly study there's almost no way you can fail. I definitely feel more confident and knowledgable knowing I have that card in my wallet when I'm out flying.
Russ, thanks for spurring me on to get my Pt. 107.
Today, after a week of intensive study and practice testing, I passed w/ 92%
Your videos have inspired me greatly on my new hobby w/ my mini 4 pro 👍
New to the drone world, just got my mini 4pro and looking to obtain my certification and become more knowledgeable, thanks for the information!
I think the work you are looking for is Certified! This is great information! Thanks so much!🙏🏻🙏🏻😁
I think the "work" you are looking for is _word_ . 😁
I was one who took the exam without any formal training. I did not see a need, but I tend to study very well and was familiar with most of the material just from having an interest in general aviation. I used the Northrup video and then six days of cramming with the Prepware app on my phone any time I had five minutes. For me, it was the weather stuff that I had to crunch on. It didn't register when I watched the video.
At the time, I took the exam just to gain knowledge and be prepared as I had been offered money for some images I took when I acquired my first drone. (I also took the GMAT just for fun, so I may not be normal.)
I found the pricing varied by airport locally - it was more at the major airport nearby than at my local GA airport. Not sure if that's changed.
Lastly, if anyone uses the Northrup video, note that two major topics have changed - operations over people and moving vehicles and night operations. There is plenty of free targeted training material for these 2021 updates.
Certified Pilot bro😂 loved the video
I would like to get the certificate. I know nothing about drones but have wanted to learn for some time now. I also do not have the money for the drone or radio. I thought about saving up and getting it a piece at a time but have not been able to do it that way. But the Certificate would push me forward to do it. Thank you for the content, as always.
When I started looking into getting my part 107 cert back in 2018, my social media got predictably flooded with ads for sites like Drone Pilot Ground School and Pilot Institute. I honestly just assumed they were all scams. I used only the FAA provided materials and passed the test on my first try (90%). However, I have since met many part 107 pilots who used these places and not one has ever said anything negative. I also have seen in the last few years that they do more than just advertise their services, they provide much needed awareness and advocacy. I may not have ever used these online courses, and I'm not a paid commenter, but if you're struggling with the FAA provided material, I think you'd be in good hands with them.
How do I get one of these jobs as a paid commenter? 😂
Yes over winter for my landscaping company as I am furthering my company posting videos so I need my certificate 😉 Glad you mentioned that as I thought it was just if you directly made money off, like making a video for a real estate agent. Your videos are rhe best and organized too! Thanks!!! Hoping to make this another career at some point! Have always flown ar airplanes and chepa drones in-between but now i went into a dji mini 4 pro and love it! 😊
One of my clients is a big landscaping company. I have had an experience many years ago with a drone job. A neighbor sued the business because his house was in the commercial. Now I’m very cautious when doing a video. Rule of thumb dealing with HOAs get the management company or your account manager to let the board know. Email is your friend here. Some residents get involved and want their property in a video. This will be my second winter but first drone in the snow. I’m wishing for snow
This video is exactly what I was looking for a high school drone course I teach. Much appreciated!
Great informative video as usual Russ, and you are right about online course. They do help a lot. I personally already enrolled with the one from Pilot Institute to get my part107 done.
Thank's for sharing this imformation I'm from Ontario,Canada!
I have been flying drones from the Hubsan H501S, The FIMI X8 2020 and 2022 series as well as a DJI Mini SE. I am registered with the FAA. But at age 67 I am not flying as much as I used to. I really have no interest in a part 107 Certification, mainly due to the cost of the exam, and the cost of preparing for it.
That is who I used for my school (and also a free app) just a couple months ago. It covered quite a bit but I wouldn't say it was 100% for what I faced in the test. I did pass with a 90 so the reality is that I was more than prepared. I am also taking their mapping course now even though I already perform mapping and processing, so that says something.
great video Russ!
Great info Russ, thanks for sharing,
Do you need a license for the Hover X1? It's a selfie camera. (It's also a drone)
Thanks for continuing to put out videos. Love the content. Hope your family is still staying strong. Keep head held high and keep family first sir.
Reading a few of the comments that state they fly without a license is a bit arrogant. I hope they understand the airspace they fly in.
Granted, the drone curriculum doesn't seem to match, but it's good general knowledge.
I'm 60 and would never pass medical. I've always wanted to be a pilot but manned aircraft is too expensive.
Being a Drone Pilot is the hill I will fight for.
Have a couple drones...son in law gave me his old DJI Phantom and my wife bought me a DEERC...I've been looking at the Potensic but haven't decided completely. I definitely want to get the part 107.
I have the Potensic and is very good. Not DJI but very stable and good video. Not great but very good for a non professional@@papapsadventures6119
@@papapsadventures6119 I think you will be happy with Potensic Atom. Very good video except in low light
So informative, thanks for sharing!
Just bought a DJI Mini 4 Pro to make training videos at work and had no idea what it would take to get a license. I'm now definitely looking into UAV Coach. Thanks! By the way, you can stop stumbling over the word certificated, you can acceptably say certified.
I am thinking of getting part 107. I am 70 so I do not plan on making a lot of money. I have had a drone for about 5 months. Just interested in leaning 😊
@william9213 I took the test at the age of 58 and I needed a magnifying glass to read the sectional charts. I took one of the online classes and really liked the whole experience of learning something new.
@@toms6756 One other question Russ. Would you suggest Mini 4 pro or Air 3 as my next drone? I am very happy with Potensic Atom but I may want to experience DJI 😊
I took it in 2023 and passed. The fonts are small and they give you a magnify glass during the test to identify the subject matter better . One advantage with the Air 3 is that it can handle the wind little better.
I just bought a holy stone hs720e off Facebook marketplace. I’m on the northwest ish corner of the Boise airport so I’m trying to learn all I can about being a drone certified pilot and possibly soon make money.
I just subscribed as I’m thinking about the drone course you took. No questions yet
I just returned this drone because it wouldn't record to the SD card. The app also didn't give me any camera setting options like its supposed to. Good luck with yours but for me it just wasn't good enough. Hoping to get a dji air 3 one day.
I'm curious about it, simply because I've recently been researching about drones and getting into the hobby (informationally). I just bought a drone, a little baby one, and flew it for a few weeks to see if I like it (I was pretty sure I was gonna but I just wanted to be sure) and now I bought a "real" one. A DJI Mini 3 Pro and I'm eagerly impatiently waiting for it to be ship. I'll see where I am in 6 mon with regard to wanting to do commercial stuff.
I'm enrolled in a trade school that involves drone training for one day. When I heard that this was involved in my curriculum, it sparked my interest.
My main goal within finishing this course is to find a promising career that has great work/life balance.
Is it worth it for people like me to invest in becoming a drone pilot? Seems like a pretty cool job!
Thank you and God bless!
As a ex air traffic controller i wonder if i can go and pass the test without studying
i have had 1 paying gig. i did not get much for it
but, i am still glad i got part 107. i took my class from another company who does not sponsor this channel, so i wont plug him. think accented guy. i took the class, i am glad i did, and i would be glad to do it again even if i never have another paying gig.
if my neighbor asks me to look at his gutters? i want to say yes to him even if hes my neighbor, i like him, and i am doing it for free.
I really am thinking about getting my 107 I love flying it's worth it too me thanks for the info bud 👍
Good informational video
Flight lessons from West Virginia near Pittsburgh and Colorado Springs also
Thanks for the information. I understand you have to take the P107 exam again after 2 years. Does it mean you have to paid another $175?? 🤔
Thanks for the video, Russ. I obtained my Part 107 certificate earlier this year. I used Pilot Institute for my training and Greg Reverdiau’s instruction was very thorough, and well worth paying for. I wanted the 107 so I could use drone photos to add to my photo business’s capabilities. However, registering with the state and paying a high price for insurance which is required in Minnesota, makes it less feasible. What has your experience been with such “extra” set-up costs?
I am a “certified commercial drone pilot through the FAA” would be the correct way to say it I believe. That’s my opinion though 🤷🏼♂️🤙🏼 certificated= certified…
That’s what I used to think, until an FAA agent corrected me.
@@51Drones Ok , I stand corrected. 🙏🏼
Need to use a drone to exam residential roofs for prospective and actual customers. I need a license for this? Thanks!
the P107 exam was honesty quite easy, i didn’t prepare much before taking it and managed to pass the exam on my first try in around 50 minutes
what resources did you use to study?
@ I used a course that my school paid for called USI, but honestly what helped me the most was a free practice exam called King Test, very similar questions to what’s on the real exam and allows you to customize the test to types of questions you struggle with, over all if you already have basic knowledge on aviation regulations and engineering it shouldn’t be to hard.
Thank you for all of the great info. I've got a question about needing a part 107 certification to use your drone for non profit organizations for example church functions? Ive tried looking it up but with no luck. Thank you again for the time you put into your content.
You will get different answers from different people based on their view of what 'purely recreational' means, I suggest you email the FAA UAS Support Center to get an answer from the horses mouth (YT is not allowing me to give you the email address, but google it). There are some who seem to believe that as soon as you turn the camera on and show someone the video you are no longer recreational. I am not one of those people. However, in my opinion, you would clearly need a 107 for using your drone for a non profit organization such as a church. It may be silly because nobody would (should) question flying your drone at a church function, with the camera turned off, just for fun. That same flight with the camera rolling and you share the video with the church then that is different under the regs, being considered good will to an organization. So it's not about the flight, not about safety, as it's about what you intend to do with the video afterwards.
I should note that I am keying off the word 'for' in your question of "use your drone for non profit organizations". If you change the word 'for' to 'at', then you get a different answer potentially. For example, hypothetically, if your family was attending a church function and you wanted to get video of your family at the church function to be included in the rest of your collection of family photos and videos, then the answer is different (imho). It goes without saying that all other rules (e.g. not flying over people etc) apply as always.
I did email the FAA a question about recreationally flying a drone at a wedding and got the answer below, which provides guidance on what is and is not recreational generally. It supports my position, but recommend you ask them yourself rather than taking some guy on the internet's word for it.
FAA response:
It is basically an issue of intent.
It is an erroneous assumption that if you are not being directly paid for drone operations then you do not need a Part 107 remote pilot certificate. Financial compensation, or the lack of it, is not the determinant for the type of operation you are conducting.
It's not what you take a photo/video of, rather, it's if your intent is to use that media for any other purpose than recreation. Simply posting media to social media or sharing it with others does not negate your recreational purpose. However, if your intent is to post to social media or share with others to generate revenue, advertise your business/organization, etc., that would be considered Part 107.
It is important to reiterate that revenue is not the trigger. Direct financial compensation It is but one way to show that the operation is not purely recreational. However, you do not have to receive revenue for a flight to be non-recreational. You could generate good will or other non-monetary value. Getting eyes on your footage if it is your “product” (like a videographer for weddings) would be deemed a non-recreational operation. Even if the footage is not the product, advertising is also a non-recreational op.
Does posting/sharing the video serve a business purpose, including (but not limited to) generating revenue, good will, and/or advertising? If yes, then you are governed by Part 107. If no, then you may operate under the exception for recreation providing you comply with all of its provisions.
Steve
@@RebelByNature thank you
The key word here is “intent”. It is virtually impossible to evaluate intent after the fact. For example, if you were to fly your drone over a church function, even while recording, as long as you determine that your intent at the time of flying was only for your enjoyment, then it does not by all definition fit under Title 14 Subtitle B (commercial operation basically). If you donate the photos to the church afterwards, it doesn’t matter. Your intent at the time of flying was for recreational use. Even if you were flying with the intent to further the church, and you lied, saying your intent was for recreation, there is no possible way for the FAA to prove so. Bottom line, the FAA will never, ever, ever investigate you for capturing aerial photos for a church function. I would bet my kidney on it.😀
@@51Drones thank you for the help. I feel like they make it vague enough to make it confusing to everyone but them.
I am now interested in getting my part 107 The only downside for me is having to give up a great insurance policy from State farm that has bailed me out on multiple occasions I believe they only cover recreational users. It is time to move up in the world and I'm going to take the course you recommended thank you
What State Farm doesn’t know won’t hurt them. 😁
@@51Drones Russ, I'm fortunate to have a flight instructor in my neighborhood, and he's helping me prepare for the 107 exam. He's telling me I have to register with IACRA before I can take the test, and that in my home state of North Carolina, I also need to take a state-level exam which is very similar to the 107 test to get a NC license. I haven't heard you mention IACRA so I thought other people interested in 107 should know. Thanks
@@bobgalik258I think it’s where you register your license after passing the exam
@@orlandocruzlopez3536 I can't register to take the 107 exam without an FTN, and that is only supplied after registering with IACRA. What you said is also true; after passing the exam the results are recorded in IACRA. After watching the RUclips video again, I did hear IACRA mentioned.
I been flying drones for 7-8 years & want to start making money doing it so I definitely need to take the FAA 107 course.
What is the easiest way to make money flying drones?
Realtor?
Hi 51D.
I'm planning my trip to US this year to visit my family there.
I'm from Poland but living in UK. I have my drone license 3 years already and flying at many contries since 3 years.
What I need to fly legal during my US visit? Do I need remite pilot certificate or part 107 to do so?
Maybe you can record some episode of 51 Drones about this?!
Hi Robert. If your a planning to fly your drone for recreational purposes only then you just have to take The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). You can do it online for free.
I'd love to get my Part 107 Certificate, But I am an American Citizen living in China, and it is as far as I know physically not possible to get the Part 107 Certificate while living abroad. To be honest this saddens me because I like to have the Certificate before I get back so I can hit the ground running for commercial drone flying.I really wish the FAA had an online test certification program. Of course only available to U.S. Citizens verified via Passport, or another option would be to set up testing sites around the world through the U.S Embassy or something to that nature.Seriously if you can get a collage degree online, why not a Part 107 Certificate
I have all kinda course and cerificates and now another one so i give up all this crap i use the drone maybe 5 times in a year and i also have insurance on it so i skip more crap now to use drone legally, this is in Norway i am sure all kinda new rules also came here.😞😞
There are definite downsides for anyone who plans on flying only as a hobbyist if they have a Part 107 certificate. Do your research or else you’ll find yourself under more strict restrictions than those that do not have a Part 107.
What options do you have if you let your certificate lapse?
You should be able to take the FAA recurrent training and test online at no cost. You can get it all done in less than 2 hours.
No worries. If you go beyond the 2 years, you can take it anytime to reinstate it. It never really expires. You can renew it anytime.
How much time did you take to study say daily or per week before you felt confident about taking and passing the test?
I would say I studied a total of about 10 or 12 hours, but it was over a couple of months. I took my time.
51~ that is good picture-goodbye-🖐
Dang man you stirred up a hornets nest reading through some of the comments. lol. Great info as always. I do have a question about mapping. Do you knkw if the Air 3 is capable of that type of work? Im on the fence of what “work” drone to get at the moment. I have plenty of “fun” drones but I’m retiring in October and wanna get the drone stuff up and running sometime next year. At least I’m certificated already. Hahaha. I know that’s the right word but it still makes me laugh.
It’s not ideal, because if you wanted the best images possible, you should use something with a mechanical shutter.
@@51Dronesthanks brother.
Just say I’m a FAA Certified Drone Pilot.
This video is an ad, but I do like the product :)
I am 76 years old and received my 107 certificate yesterday. I have been a private pilot since 1972 and a a&p mechanic since 82. Yes this helped but I did take a course and probable would not have passed without doing that,as it was the test was way harder then I expected. It had many trick questions and did not follow the usual two totally wrong answers and one correct one. Almost all the questions had three answers that were very close to being right... a lot of questions that I knew from experience but there were questions that I had absolutely no idea the answer. All this being said, yes there is stuff on the exam that a drone pilot will NEVER need or use, but it is the faa and you got to play their game if you want to do it legally..
I now am going for a part 137 certificate to do agricultural spraying. This is going to be tough. I am having a hard time finding study guides for it so if anyone knows of any I would appreciate you sharing...thanks
Hi Russ ❤
In my mid 70’s so studying is easy. Want a license but probably have to skip it.
Anyone know if the school class covers the exam price as well or do you pay for that as well?
The exam is a separate charge.
Are there any downside to getting certified?
time, money, no necessity based on what you want to do
They are asking $299 to enroll now , 12/05/24
Great video and recommendation
You sound like you could play Winnie the Pooh
Can you not say certified?
Very well said R.😎
Nope. I do drone jobs and I've never got a 107 and never will. I said when I get enough work to pay for those license I'll get them. I get like 1 job a month and I'm well known in my town and surrounding areas.
@faanews you seeing this? 😁🤪
That is foolish. Even moreso announcing it publicly.
How about - "FAA Certified Commercial Drone Pilot". "FAA Certified Drone Pilot".
$170 is absolutely overcharged for such a non mandatory certificate. $20 would be fair price. I even got mine for free but is only valid for 5 years and then needs to be renewed. Nobody really cares. It's more like certified drone pilot (UAS).
How did you get yours for free?
@@pablojunior96 idk, on their website it clearly said it would cost me money but then sent me an email saying that I would receive a bill later somewhen and being charged. That was on August, 5th 2023. I've never heard from them ever since and haven't paid for anything. It's pretty unusual because normally the payment is processed at the checkout before taking the exam. The certificate is valid now for the next 5 years.
(CERT-TIF-/I/-CATED)
Sir Tiffa Cated at your service.
Ya they r paying u lol. That was too specific and addy to say they didnt pay u.
If they paid me to make this video, I would legally have to disclose it, as per FCC guidelines. Not doing so risks a quite significant fine.
there should be a disclaimer at the beginning of the video that says "this is an advertorial". I will want the 8 minutes of life back on my deathbed wasted on listening to these mouth sounds.
Yet, you watched all 8 minutes? 🤷🏻♂️🤪
First
So, I should spend $175 to keep the Karens at bay? If someone wants to learn more about something, they should research it. More power to them, but mandating with fees is typical of government control. We overregulate everything in this country. BTW - What's the $175 go to?
Ze juce
Can’t you just say certified?
You could, but the official term from the FAA is certificated.
Sanctioned?
Of all the topics in this video to discuss, debate, ask questions about, it seems very weird to me that this question of the word got so much attention. As Jeff Foxworthy might put it, You might be pedantic if ....
Just say "Certified" instead of saying Certificated.
Thanks Russ. Your first reason should probably include "any flying other than purely recreational" since that's the biggest misunderstanding about Part 107. In other words, there are many who want to do non-recreational flying that is NOT compensated or performed in furtherance of a going concern and for that they need a Part 107.
FYI, the term is "FAA Certified". "Certificated" is an unnecessary construct, similar to "incentivize".
Sorry, but it is actually “certificated.” I was corrected when I stated “certified” by Kevin from the FAA.
"non-recreational flying that is NOT compensated or performed in furtherance of a going concern" What are you thinking here? Not sure what you are thinking here, but I occasionally come across this view point that "purely recreational" is a very narrow thing, and almost always, I don't think it's as narrow as they suggest.
@@RebelByNature The FAA is very clear. Recreational is just that: for fun/pure enjoyment. Anything else, whether for money or not, is non-recreational. Inspecting your neighbor's roof in exchange for a pizza (this is what my neighbor offers me each time); taking photos to sell your home; making a video for your church, school or child's sports league; taking a photo for your family business website - these are all examples where no money exchanges hands, but the flights must be conducted under Part 107 rules.
Further, if you do fly recreationally, remember that you must fly under the rules of one of four Community-Based Organizations (CBOs).
@@markkempton4579 Ok, I agree with all your examples except for the pizza from your neighbor 😀 That might be like going 56 mph in a 55 mph zone.
All of those other examples, imho, fall under the good will towards an organization. I guess I misunderstood your original statement which I thought was saying that there were non recreational flights but neither compensated nor good will towards an organization and following all the other recreational rules.
@@RebelByNatureI was corrected on this about five years ago when I was speaking with the FAA Drone Hotline folks. As you suggest, they insisted that "purely recreational" was indeed a very narrow consideration that they likened to flying a kite: purely for the joy of flying and absolutely nothing else. This position has been stated to me repeatedly in the intervening years by every single FAA staffer with whom I've spoken or emailed.
Please don't take my word for it. Ask them yourself. I speak or with or email FAA staffers on a weekly basis, both at my area FSDO and at the Hotline. They are really helpful and will be glad to explain their position.
The reason I brought this up is because there are many people I've encountered that have no interest in making money or supporting a business but they would love to volunteer their services in furtherance of a municipality, a school, a church, or other not-for-profit organization. This is of course not purely recreationl and therefore requires a Part 107.
Certificated is pronounced with a long A like in cake. Certifi -cAted.
Oh, well now someone tells me! 😂
"Certified"
Nope. I specifically was told by FAA agent that the proper term is certificated.
Negative. It was even on the screen he showed at 3:10 in the video.
Making money is the lead star for many Americans. Money buys everything...
Is there no value to just have fun? Passing 70, the body sets limits, but fiddling with 2 joysticks and some buttons, no problem.
Okey. I admit I saved a video telling hoe to record properties for sale. No real respons from the real estate agent yet.....
Soon Part 107 won't be optional. Everyone will be required to be licensed and fly only US-built drones in the US.
Nah, I don’t think so.
Nah, its American, dont let anyone tell you need a certificate to fly your drone
Stay away from airports and other sensitive areas and you will be alright
In the US, even if flying for recreational purposes you still have to pass the TRUST test and receive a certificate to fly. And you have to register your drone with the FAA if 250 grams and above.
Suggesting to “simply stay away from airports and other sensitive areas and you will be alright” is very irresponsible regardless of what country you are in.
@@rlgrant00 that's not what the constitution says, now go be a good commie, and I'll be a free man
And you're the kind of person who will ruin it for everyone. Do you tell your kids they do not need a driver's license to drive on public roads, too?
There's more than just "stay away from airports". Do not fly over people or moving vehicles. Do not fly near a stadium during a major sporting event. Do not operate from national parks. Do not fly at night without a strobe light visible from the air for three statute miles.
You do not need a Part 107, but you need to pass a basic TRUST exam/training.
@@markkempton4579 and your the kinda person that would of had a red coat on.
You do need the TRUST. Plain and simple. Too many rogues who hurt the drone community. We can't get loosened rules like VLOS to get to BVLOS for everyone.
In 1980 where were 200,000 student pilots ($3K to become a pilot), 2020 48,476 ($15K~$30K). The FAA infrastructure has collapsed compared to the 80ites, the billion dollar 'drone' market promises a new money stream and it will be milked until they destroy it also, like they have general aviation. The current Part 107 test has very little to do with flying a drone, there is nothing about the technology of UAS aircraft, they refuse to admit the RPIC visibility is far superior to a PIC of a General Aviation aircraft. I know of zero drone pilots that carry sectional charts when they fly, that is what apps are for, weather, with VLOS and 30 minute flight time? I know how to use my antique AM Aircraft radio to get weather reports using the sectional charts for radio channel/frequency, I do have issues lugging the 24 volt battery for it around. If you throw something into the air it will fall back, I'm amazed the FAA has not created a new Part with rules controlling this behavior, someone could be killed! Perhaps the FAA could expand the TRUST test to include this?
Sorry. It's a gov money grab. Once again squeezing the hobby out. I gave them the 5 bucks. That's enough.