When it comes to flying drones commercially in the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires operators to obtain a commercial drone license, also known as a Part 107 certification. One of the essential considerations for obtaining this license is the associated costs.
Several factors influence the cost of obtaining an FAA commercial drone license. These include training fees, study materials, the FAA knowledge test fee, and any recurrent testing costs. Additionally, some individuals may choose to enroll in a drone pilot training course, which can incur additional expenses.
On average, the FAA knowledge test fee is around $150. Study materials such as prep books or online courses can range from $50 to $300. Training costs vary depending on the provider and can range from $200 to $500 or more.
It's important to note that the cost of obtaining an FAA commercial drone license is not a one-time expense. Every two years, operators are required to take a recurrent knowledge test, which will involve additional costs for study materials and testing fees.
When considering the cost of obtaining an FAA commercial drone license, it's essential to account for all potential expenses, including training, study materials, testing fees, and recurrent costs. By understanding these costs upfront, aspiring commercial drone operators can better prepare and budget for obtaining their Part 107 certification.