Drone license certification
Data as of Oct 26, 2026
Reviewed by Dimitry Apollonsky
Which brands AI mentions
Mentioned in · Jul 5 – Oct 26, 2026
ChatGPT SearchChatGPT SearchGoogle AI ModeGoogle AI Mode
Widest split: Federal Aviation Administration, 100% on ChatGPT Search and 17% on Google AI Mode.
- =1Integrated Airman Certification & Rating Application (IACRA)ChatGPT Search 71%Google AI Mode 57%
- =1Federal Aviation AdministrationChatGPT Search 100%Google AI Mode 17%
- 3PSI ExamsChatGPT Search 13%Google AI Mode 87%
- =4Pilot InstituteChatGPT Search 4%Google AI Mode 57%
- =4FAA DroneZoneChatGPT Search 8%Google AI Mode 43%
Questions and answers
ChatGPT SearchOct 26, 2026
If you're in Pennsylvania, the best place to get a drone license is through the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration). The right license depends on whether you want to fly drones for fun or use them for work, photography, real estate, or a business.
Which drone license do you need?
1. Recreational drone flying
(For fun)
You generally don't need a pilot certificate. You must pass the free FAA TRUST safety test and follow recreational flying rules.
Official site:
2. Commercial drone license — Part 107
(For paid work)
Needed for most commercial drone operations, including paid photography, roof inspections, real estate videos, and surveying. You must meet FAA eligibility requirements, pass the aeronautical knowledge exam, and obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate.
Official site:
Where to get training near Mount Pocono, PA
The Pilot Mind Drone Academy
Pittston, Pennsylvania
A northeastern Pennsylvania option for drone training and professional flight skills.
Phone: 570-550-0774
Keystone Aerial Cam Ltd
Orefield, Pennsylvania
Offers drone pilot training and classroom or on-site instruction.
Phone: 610-972-4088
Energy Aviation
Montoursville, Pennsylvania
An FAA Part 107 knowledge-test center. Exams are by appointment; call to confirm current availability.
Phone: 570-368-2651
How to get your commercial drone license
- Study for the FAA Part 107 exam using free FAA materials or a training course.
- Get your FAA Tracking Number (FTN) through IACRA.
- Schedule the Part 107 knowledge test at an FAA-approved testing center.
- Pass the exam and complete the FAA certificate application process. Applicants must generally be at least 16 years old.
One important detail: Training schools prepare you for the exam, but the FAA issues your certificate. You can find the official requirements at FAA — Become a Drone Pilot.
Are you looking to fly drones for fun or to make money? I'll help you find the best option and the closest place to get certified.
Sources cited in this answer6
- faa.govThe Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) | Federal Aviation Administration
- faa.govBecome a Certificated Remote Pilot | Federal Aviation Administration
- energyipt.comTesting center website
- iacra.faa.govIACRA - Federal Aviation Administration
- faa.govBecome a Certificated Remote Pilot | Federal Aviation Administration
- faa.govChapter 11. Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)
Google AI ModeOct 26, 2026
To get a commercial drone license (officially called an FAA Remote Pilot CertificateFAA Remote Pilot Certificate under Part 107) in the United States, you don’t go to a traditional DMV or licensing office. Instead, you must go through a step-by-step process involving
the FAA and an authorized testing center.Here are the key steps and where to go for each part of the process:
- Meet the basic requirements: You must be at least 16 years old, able to read, write, and speak English, and in a physical and mental condition to safely fly.
- Register for an FTN: Create an account and get an FAA Tracking Number (FTN) through the FAA IACRA PortalFAA IACRA Portal (Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application).
- Schedule and take the test:
- You must pass the initial Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG) knowledge test.
- You take this in-person at an FAA-approved testing center. You can find a location and book your exam slot on the PSI Exams FAA Registration PortalPSI Exams FAA Registration Portal. (Note: Studying beforehand via self-study guides or online ground schools is strongly recommended, as the test covers airspace, weather, regulations, and operations).
- Apply for the certificate: Once you pass the test, wait about 48–72 hours for your score to upload, then log back into your FAA IACRA PortalFAA IACRA Portal account to formally submit your application for your Remote Pilot Certificate.
- Background check & approval: The TSA will conduct a background check, and once approved, you can download your temporary certificate right from IACRA while your official plastic card arrives in the mail.
(Note: If you are only flying your drone purely for fun/recreation, you do not need a Part 107 license, but you do still need to pass TRUST—The Recreational UAS Safety Test—which is a free online safety course, and register your drone on the FAA DroneZoneFAA DroneZone).
If you'd like, let me know:
- Are you planning to fly commercially or just recreationally?
- Do you need recommendations for study materials or ground school courses to prep for the test?
Sources cited in this answer6
- faa.govBecome a Certificated Remote Pilot | Federal Aviation Administration
- dronepilotgroundschool.comMap of 800+ FAA Drone Testing Centers - Drone Pilot Ground School
- faa.govCertificated Remote Pilots including Commercial Operators | Federal Aviation Administration
- help.dronelaunchacademy.comHow can I find a testing center?
- reddit.comHow do i take the knowledge test? : r/drones - Reddit
- faa.govHow to Register Your Drone | Federal Aviation Administration
Also asked as
- What is the process for obtaining a drone license?
- I need to get my drone license, where should I start?
