As a remote pilot, staying current with your Part 107 certification is crucial to maintaining your drone license. In this blog post, we’ll take you through the entire renewal process, highlighting key changes and requirements, comparing online training to testing centers, and providing you with valuable tips and resources to help you navigate the process with ease.
Key Takeaways
- Understand Part 107 renewal requirements and complete the free online ALC-677 Part 107 Small UAS Recurrent training course every two years.
- Set up an FAA Safety Account to access the online training, which covers essential topics such as sUAS characteristics, preflight considerations, operating rules and more.
- Stay informed of new regulations impacting drone operations. Have your valid certification documents available for authorities when needed.
Understanding Part 107 Renewal Requirements
Drone pilots no longer are required to visit testing centers for their Part 107 renewal and current flight review. Thanks to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) introducing a more convenient and accessible online renewal process, pilots can now complete recurrent training courses from the comfort of their homes.
This training serves to keep drone pilots up-to-date with FAA regulations and helps them preserve their aeronautical knowledge.
Aeronautical Knowledge Requirement
The Part 107 renewal process mandates drone pilots to undertake the free online Part 107 Small UAS Recurrent training course (ALC-677) biennially (every two years). This online course covers the aeronautical knowledge necessary to maintain your current airman certificate and remain certified to operate a UAS under Part 107.
Before taking the course, you will undergo an initial test consisting of 45 questions, and you must score 100% to pass. No need to worry, though, as you are allowed to correct wrong answers during the 90-minute exam.
Online Training vs. Testing Center
The availability of online training has been warmly received by drone pilots for its convenience and easy access. The free online Part 107 renewal course eliminates the need to visit an FAA-approved testing center, making the renewal process more efficient and cost-effective.
On the other hand, the testing center process requires an in-person exam, which may be inconvenient for some pilots. Overall, the online training option has been well-received by the drone community, offering a streamlined approach to renewing one’s Part 107 certification.
Setting Up Your FAA Safety Account
Before you can access the online training for Part 107 renewal, establishing an FAA Safety Account is a prerequisite. The process is straightforward; simply visit the official FAA Safety website at FAASafety.gov and follow the registration steps.
Once your account is set up, you’re ready to enroll in the online training courses required for Part 107 renewal.
Accessing Free Online Training
Once your FAA Safety account is in place, you are all set to access the free online training courses for Part 107 renewal. To do so, visit the official FAA Safety program website at https://www.faasafety.gov/gslac/ALC/CourseLanding.aspx?cID=677 and sign up for the Part 107 Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems course.
Ensure that you meet the technical requirements necessary for accessing the training, such as having a U.S. pilot certificate and a current medical certificate when applicable. Once enrolled, you can begin your journey towards renewing your Part 107 certification.
Navigating the Part 107 Small UAS Recurrent Course
The Part 107 Small UAS Recurrent course is structured into three modules, a review, and an exam, with each module containing lessons, videos, slides, knowledge check questions, and summaries.
The course covers essential topics such as:
- Characteristics and requirements for sUAS
- Responsibilities of the Remote Pilot in Command
- Preflight considerations
- Operating rules
- Abnormal and emergency situations
It will take roughly two hours to finish the course. This includes both theory and practical work.
Exam Preparation Tips
Thorough preparation is a key component for the successful completion of the Part 107 renewal exam. Utilize study materials such as the Airman Certification Standards (ACS) for Unmanned Aircraft Systems, the FAA’s Part 107 online training course, and the FAA Part 107 Study Guide.
Additionally, to prepare for the Part 107 renewal exam, you should:
- Take practice tests to become familiar with the exam format and question types
- Dedicate study time to review the course material
- Utilize online resources effectively
By following these steps, you will be equipped to confidently face the Part 107 renewal exam.
Completing the Part 107 Recurrent Training
Upon successful completion of the Part 107 Small UAS Recurrent training course, you will receive a recurrent certificate, which serves as proof of your renewed drone license.
Keeping a close eye on your completion certificate is essential as any non-compliance with Part 107 regulations may lead to penalties.
Printing and Storing Your Certificate
You can print your Part 107 certificate by logging into IACRA and printing the temporary certificate as soon as it is available. For secure storage and easy access, consider digitally storing your certificate using software such as Skyward.
Digital storage offers:
- Convenience
- Security
- Simple sharing
- Cost-efficiency
- Environmental friendliness.
In case you lose your certificate, you can apply for a replacement through the FAA or the Airmen Certification online services site.
New Rules and Regulations Impacting Drone Pilots
In the rapidly changing landscape of drone technology, it is of utmost importance for pilots to remain updated on new rules and regulations. One such change is the introduction of night operations, which requires pilots to complete FAA knowledge tests or online training that covers night physiology and night visual illusion.
To remain current with these new rules ensures that you operate your drone safely and legally.
Proving Your Certification Under Part 107
When requested by authorities such as the FAA, NTSB, or law enforcement officers, remote pilots must present their remote pilot certificate (FAA Form 8710-13) and a valid government-issued photo ID with their signature as proof of Part 107 certification.
Having the necessary documentation at hand can help you prevent potential complications with authorities during drone operations.
Summary
In conclusion, the Part 107 renewal process has become more convenient, accessible, and cost-effective with the introduction of online training courses. By staying informed about new rules and regulations, preparing thoroughly for the renewal exam, and maintaining proper documentation, remote pilots can continue to operate their drones safely and legally. So, gear up for your Part 107 renewal and keep reaching for the skies!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Part 107 need to be renewed?
Part 107 does not need to be renewed, however it is necessary to take training every 24 calendar months in order to keep the certificate valid.
How to renew Part 107 in 2023?
To renew your Part 107 in 2023, create an account at https://www.faasafety.gov/, enroll in the Part 107 sUAS Recurrent curriculum, and take the ALC-677: Part 107 Small UAS Recurrent Non-Part 61 Pilots Introduction course exam.
How long does it take to complete the Part 107 Small UAS Recurrent training course?
The Part 107 Small UAS Recurrent training course can be completed in approximately two hours.
How can I access the free online training courses for Part 107 renewal?
To access the free online training courses for Part 107 renewal, simply visit the FAA Safety program website and sign up for the applicable course.
What is the required score for successful completion of the Part 107 renewal exam?
To successfully complete the Part 107 renewal exam, a score of 100% is required.
