Quick Answer: 2-8 Weeks Total
Getting your drone license (FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate) typically takes 2-8 weeks from start to finish, depending on your study pace and processing times. Here’s the complete timeline breakdown:
Phase 1: Study and Preparation (1-6 Weeks)
Self-Study Timeline
- Fast Track (1-2 weeks): 2-3 hours daily with aviation background
- Standard Pace (3-4 weeks): 1 hour daily, no prior experience
- Extended Study (5-6 weeks): 30 minutes daily, comprehensive review
What Affects Your Study Time
Factors that speed up preparation:
- Prior pilot license or aviation experience
- Strong weather and chart reading knowledge
- Familiarity with federal regulations
- Dedicated daily study schedule
Factors that extend preparation:
- No aviation background
- Difficulty with weather interpretation
- Limited study time availability
- Need for extensive practice tests
Phase 2: Test Scheduling and Taking (1-2 Weeks)
Scheduling Your Test
FAA knowledge tests are administered at over 800 testing centers nationwide. Scheduling typically requires:
- Urban areas: Usually same-week availability
- Rural areas: May need 1-2 weeks advance booking
- Peak seasons: Summer months may have longer waits
Test Day Details
- Duration: 2 hours maximum
- Cost: $175 (paid at testing center)
- Results: Available immediately upon completion
- Passing score: 70% (42 out of 60 questions correct)
Phase 3: Application Processing (1-2 Weeks)
IACRA Application Process
After passing your test, you must complete the application through the FAA’s IACRA system:
- Create IACRA account (if you don’t have one)
- Complete Form 8710-13 (Remote Pilot Certificate application)
- Submit TSA background check
- Pay application fee (currently free)
Background Check Timeline
The TSA background check typically processes in:
- Standard processing: 3-7 business days
- Potential delays: Up to 2 weeks if additional review needed
- Common delay causes: Name matches, previous addresses, or incomplete information
Phase 4: Certificate Issuance (Same Day to 6 Weeks)
Temporary Certificate
- Issued: Immediately upon IACRA approval
- Valid for: 120 days
- Allows: Full commercial drone operations
- Format: PDF download from IACRA
Permanent Plastic Certificate
- Mailed: 2-6 weeks after temporary issuance
- Valid for: 24 months
- Required: Must carry during operations
Expedited Timeline: 7-10 Days
For those with aviation experience and urgent needs:
Week 1 (Days 1-5)
- Days 1-3: Intensive study (3-4 hours daily)
- Day 4: Schedule and take practice tests
- Day 5: Take official Part 107 exam
Week 2 (Days 6-10)
- Day 6: Complete IACRA application
- Days 7-10: Background check processing
- Day 10: Temporary certificate issued
Standard Timeline: 4-5 Weeks
Most first-time applicants follow this schedule:
Weeks 1-3: Study Period
- Week 1: Read FAA study guide, learn regulations
- Week 2: Master airspace and weather concepts
- Week 3: Practice tests and review weak areas
Week 4: Test and Application
- Beginning of week: Schedule and take exam
- Mid-week: Complete IACRA application
- End of week: Background check processing
Week 5: Certificate Processing
- Early week: Temporary certificate issued
- Later: Begin commercial operations
Factors That Can Cause Delays
Study-Related Delays
- Failing the exam (requires 14-day wait to retake)
- Insufficient preparation leading to extended study time
- Difficulty finding convenient test center appointments
Processing Delays
- IACRA system maintenance or high volume periods
- Background check complications
- Incomplete or incorrect application information
- Name discrepancies between test and application
Seasonal Considerations
- Spring/Summer: Higher demand, longer test scheduling waits
- Fall/Winter: Typically faster processing times
- Holiday periods: Government processing may slow
Tips to Minimize Timeline
Before You Start
- Create your IACRA account early
- Gather all required identification documents
- Research testing centers in your area
- Download official FAA study materials
During Study Phase
- Set a consistent daily study schedule
- Take multiple practice tests before scheduling
- Focus on weak areas identified in practice tests
- Schedule your exam as soon as you’re confident
After Passing the Test
- Complete IACRA application immediately
- Double-check all information for accuracy
- Submit background check promptly
- Monitor your email for updates
What You Can Do While Waiting
While your certificate processes, you can:
- Register your drone with the FAA
- Study local airspace and restrictions
- Plan your first commercial operations
- Research drone insurance options
- Network with other drone professionals
After You Get Your License
Once you receive your temporary certificate, you can immediately begin commercial drone operations. Remember:
- Always carry your certificate during operations
- Follow all Part 107 operating restrictions
- Plan for recurrent training in 24 months
- Consider additional waivers if needed for your operations
The drone licensing process averages 4-5 weeks for most people, but with focused preparation and prompt application submission, you can be commercially certified and operating in as little as 2 weeks. The key is consistent study, prompt action after passing your test, and ensuring all application information is accurate and complete.
