How to Get Your Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate: FTN, Test, and Application
For most first-time applicants, the process is: create an IACRA account and get an FTN, book and pass the UAG knowledge test, submit the remote-pilot application in IACRA, complete TSA screening, and receive a temporary certificate. Passing the test alone does not authorize you to serve as remote pilot in command.
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Check eligibility and choose your routeCreate your IACRA account and get an FTNBook the UAG knowledge testPrepare for test dayApply in IACRA after passingUse the temporary certificate and receive the permanent oneKeep your certificate currentNext steps after certificationCommon questionsCheck eligibility and choose your route
For the ordinary first-time route, you must be at least 16, able to read, speak, write, and understand English, and not have a known physical or mental condition that would interfere with safe operation. The FAA does not require an aviation medical examination for this certificate.
Most first-time applicants take the UAG knowledge test at an approved testing center. If you hold a qualifying Part 61 pilot certificate other than a student certificate and meet the flight-review requirements, you may qualify for the FAA’s Part 107 Small UAS Initial online course and an in-person application validation instead of the knowledge exam. Follow the FAA’s current instructions for your route.
Create your IACRA account and get an FTN
Create an account in IACRA before booking the test. IACRA assigns an FAA Tracking Number (FTN) to your identity. Keep it and reuse it for future FAA testing and applications; it does not expire after a short waiting period. Use your legal name and personal details consistently, and correct any discrepancy before you test.
You need your FTN to register for the knowledge test. The test center will tell you what identification to bring; check the current FAA testing matrix and the provider’s appointment instructions.
Book the UAG knowledge test
Find a center through the FAA’s FAA: Knowledge Testing Centers directory and confirm the fee and appointment details with the provider. The fee is about $175; confirm the amount when you book.
The UAG exam has 60 scored questions plus 5 unscored validation questions. You have two hours and need at least 70 percent on the scored questions to pass. The current subject mix is weighted toward regulations, operations, and airspace. Review the FAA’s published sample questions, study guide, testing supplement, and current testing standards. The FAA does not publish its live exam question bank; sample questions are representative practice, not the live test.
Prepare for test day
Bring the valid identification required by the FAA testing matrix and your FTN. Follow the testing provider’s instructions for arrival, permitted materials, and appointment check-in. Allow the full two-hour exam period in addition to check-in time.
When you finish, keep your Airman Knowledge Test Report. It shows your result and, if you did not pass, the subject codes identifying areas to study. It does not provide a question-by-question answer key. If you fail, the FAA requires a 14-calendar-day wait before retesting; the testing provider will require the applicable retest paperwork, including the failed report. Confirm current instructions with the provider.
Apply in IACRA after passing
A passing score is not a remote pilot certificate. Start the Remote Pilot application in IACRA and submit the required FAA application. When prompted, associate your test result using the 17-digit Knowledge Test Exam ID printed on your report. It can take up to 48 hours for the result to appear in IACRA. Keep your test report in case you need the exam ID.
The FAA conducts a TSA security screening before issuing the temporary certificate. Watch for the FAA email with instructions to access and print the temporary remote pilot certificate in IACRA. Do not act as remote pilot in command based only on a passing score or test report.
Use the temporary certificate and receive the permanent one
Once issued, the temporary remote pilot certificate allows you to exercise its privileges while the FAA completes processing. It is valid for up to 120 calendar days, subject to the certificate’s terms and earlier termination if a permanent certificate is issued or the application is denied or revoked. Keep the certificate accessible when operating.
The FAA mails the permanent certificate after processing. Timing varies; the FAA advises allowing several weeks. Check application status through IACRA and use FAA Airmen Certification support if a certificate is delayed beyond the FAA’s stated guidance.
Keep your certificate current
The remote pilot certificate does not expire, but you must keep your aeronautical knowledge current to exercise its privileges. Complete the applicable free FAA online recurrent training every 24 calendar months. Carry or have your certificate accessible when operating and follow all aircraft registration, Remote ID, airspace, and operating rules.
Next steps after certification
Before your first Part 107 flight, register each aircraft for Part 107 operations in DroneZone, confirm Remote ID compliance, check the chart and any required airspace authorization, and review the planned operation. Start with the FAA’s FAA DroneZone registration instructions and the FAA: Remote ID guidance. A pilot certificate by itself does not register your aircraft or authorize a particular flight.
Common questions
Does my FTN expire?
No. Your FAA Tracking Number is a persistent identifier. Keep using your existing FTN; do not create a new one just because time has passed.
How many questions are on the Part 107 test, and what score do I need?
The UAG exam has 60 scored questions plus 5 unscored validation questions. You have two hours and need at least 70 percent on the scored portion to pass.
Does the FAA publish the actual test question bank?
No. The FAA publishes representative sample questions and study materials. They are not the live examination bank and do not guarantee what will appear on your test.
What happens if I fail?
Keep your Airman Knowledge Test Report. It identifies the subject areas to review. The FAA requires a 14-calendar-day wait before retesting; check current retest instructions and paperwork with your testing provider.
Can I fly as remote pilot in command right after I pass?
No. A passing test result is not a pilot certificate. Submit your application in IACRA and wait for TSA screening and issuance of the temporary remote pilot certificate before exercising Part 107 privileges.
How long is a temporary remote pilot certificate valid?
It is issued for up to 120 calendar days, subject to its terms and earlier termination if a permanent certificate is issued or the application is denied or revoked.
Can an existing pilot skip the UAG exam?
Some Part 61 pilots qualify for the online Part 107 initial course and application-validation pathway. The pilot must hold a qualifying certificate other than a student certificate and meet the applicable flight-review requirements. Follow the FAA’s current instructions.
How much does the knowledge test cost?
Budget about $175 and confirm the amount with the testing provider when you schedule, since charges and appointment details may change.
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Reviewed and updated September 2026.
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