The use of drones has increased over the years, where even an average person can operate one to document a holiday, for example. However, this use has also entered the commercial scene because companies can hire drone pilots for profit. However, this will require you to undergo a certification process before you can fly a drone legally to make money out of it.
If you plan to capture drone footage for companies and brands, specifically in real estate, you need to get a Part 107 drone pilot certification. Like other certifications, you must know how to effectively navigate the process. Here are some tips that can help you go through a Part 107 drone pilot certification as smoothly as possible:
1. Use a Reliable Drone Training Course
The examination requires knowledge on various aviation topics, which is why many people find that learning concepts, such as airspace and reading sectional charts, require good training courses. Make sure when using drone training courses that they are up-to-date and reliable. Otherwise, you could mess up your chances of passing the exam.
2. Find a Study Buddy
It’s natural to feel the need to study alone for your Part 107 exam, but it’s easy to lose momentum when doing so. For this reason, it’s an excellent idea to study with a partner or group to help keep you on track. Schedule check-ins and discuss points and questions of confusion with your partner.
Although there’s nothing wrong with studying for your Part 107 exam on your own, studying with other people can make the whole experience more enjoyable. In the end, you might even feel more motivated to nail the exam if you have someone to study with!
3. Sign Up for Part 107 Exam
The first thing to do is get your FAA Tracking Number (FTN) through the FAA’s IACRA system. Use your FTN to create an account in the PSI test scheduling system, and from there, you can book your exam. Keep in mind that most Part 107 tests will cost you around $160, but there are other testing centers owned by PSI that offer it for $96.
4. Take the Test
In this stage, you will receive a physical copy of the Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement and you will be given two hours to answer 60 questions on various topics. You can also expect questions about Part 107 regulations to UAS performance.
5. Apply for Remote Pilot Certificate
Keep in mind that the passing grade for the exams is 70% and above. Once you pass your exam, you can formally apply for the remote pilot certificate. With the Airmen Knowledge Test Report, submit your test results to the FAA’s IACRA system and wait for their reply, which can take up to ten days. You will then be issued a temporary, printable remote pilot certificate that is good for 120 days and all you need to do is wait for the permanent certificate in the mail.
Moreover, your Knowledge Test results will remain current for 24 months, and after that, you will need to take a recurrent knowledge exam to keep your drone pilot’s certification up-to-date. This is why you should consider having lifetime access to a ground school so that every time you need to take your recurrent knowledge exam, you’ll be able to log back into the course and get up to speed on current regulations.
Conclusion
Venturing into real estate drone photography is a wonderful opportunity. However, you need certification to fly your drones around properties, especially if it’s for work. By following the tips shared above, you’ll be able to get the certification you need to operate legally for your commercial offers.
Do you need real estate drone photography in Birmingham, AL? Here at Pegasus Ground & Air, we have certified professionals who use drones to deliver the best real estate shots for your property. Get in touch with us today to see how we can capture photos that will help sell your property fast!