Yes, you absolutely need a drone license to take aerial photographs commercially in the United States. The FAA requires anyone using a drone for business purposes to hold a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, regardless of the drone’s weight or how often you fly. This requirement applies to real estate photographers, wedding videographers, content creators monetizing footage, and anyone else receiving compensation for aerial imagery.
The Part 107 certification process involves passing a 60-question knowledge test covering airspace regulations, weather, drone operations, and FAA rules. You will also need to register your drone with the FAA and comply with Remote ID broadcasting requirements. The good news is that getting certified is straightforward and typically takes 2-4 weeks from start to finish.
In this guide, I will walk you through everything you need to know about drone licensing for aerial photography. I have researched FAA regulations, spoken with certified commercial pilots, and compiled the exact steps you need to get legal and start building your aerial photography business in 2026.
What Counts as Commercial Drone Use for Aerial Photography
The FAA defines commercial drone use broadly as any operation conducted for business purposes or compensation. This definition catches many photographers off guard because it extends far beyond obvious paid photography gigs. Understanding exactly what triggers commercial requirements can save you from costly fines and legal trouble.
For aerial photography specifically, commercial use includes any situation where you receive payment, trade services, or expect future business benefits from your drone footage. The key factor is whether there is any form of compensation or business advantage, not whether you make a profit.
Common Commercial Aerial Photography Activities
Here are the most common scenarios that require a Part 107 license:
Real estate photography: Taking aerial shots of properties for sale, whether for realtors, property managers, or developers. This is one of the most popular commercial drone applications and definitely requires certification.
Wedding and event videography: Capturing drone footage at weddings, corporate events, festivals, or private celebrations where you are paid for your services.
Construction progress documentation: Shooting aerial photos or videos of construction sites for contractors, architects, or project managers.
Stock footage sales: Selling your drone footage on stock platforms like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock requires Part 107, even if the footage was captured before you had clients.
YouTube monetization: If you monetize drone videos on YouTube or other platforms, you need a commercial license. The FAA considers ad revenue as compensation.
Business promotion: Using drone footage to market your own photography business or any other commercial enterprise.
Roof and property inspections: Providing aerial inspection services for insurance companies, home inspectors, or property owners.
Surprising Activities That Require Part 107
Many photographers are surprised to learn these activities also require commercial certification:
Volunteer work: Providing free drone photography to nonprofits, charities, or community organizations still requires Part 107. The FAA does not distinguish between paid and volunteer commercial work.
Portfolio building: If you plan to use footage to attract future paying clients, even test flights could be considered commercial intent.
Bartering services: Trading drone photos for goods or services counts as compensation under FAA rules.
Real estate agents flying their own drones: Even if you are not charging separately for aerial photos, using a drone as part of your real estate business requires certification.
What Does NOT Require Part 107
Recreational flying under Section 44809 rules does not require Part 107, but it has strict limitations:
You can fly for fun without a commercial license if you are not receiving any compensation and have no business intent. However, recreational flyers must still pass the free TRUST test (The Recreational UAS Safety Test) and follow basic safety guidelines. The key difference is that recreational footage cannot be used commercially, even later.
One important note: the sub-250g weight exemption that allows recreational flyers to skip registration does NOT apply to commercial operations. If you are flying for business purposes, you must register your drone regardless of weight.
FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate Requirements
The Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is your license to fly drones commercially in the United States. Issued by the Federal Aviation Administration, this certification demonstrates that you understand airspace regulations, weather patterns, emergency procedures, and safe drone operations. Here is everything you need to know about the requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
Before you can obtain a Part 107 certificate, you must meet these basic eligibility criteria:
Age: You must be at least 16 years old to take the knowledge test and receive your certificate.
Language proficiency: You must be able to read, speak, write, and understand English. This ensures you can communicate with air traffic control if necessary and understand aviation documentation.
Mental and physical fitness: You must not have any physical or mental condition that would interfere with safe drone operation. No medical certificate is required, but you must self-certify your fitness.
TSA security vetting: All applicants undergo Transportation Security Administration background checks. Certain criminal convictions may disqualify you from certification.
Identification: You need valid government-issued photo identification to take the knowledge test.
The Part 107 Knowledge Test
The knowledge test is the main hurdle for most aspiring commercial drone pilots. Here is what to expect:
The test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions covering topics including airspace classification and operating requirements, aviation weather sources and effects, drone loading and performance, emergency procedures, crew resource management, radio communication procedures, determining the performance of small unmanned aircraft, physiological effects of drugs and alcohol, and aeronautical decision-making and judgment.
You have 120 minutes to complete the test and must score at least 70% (42 correct answers) to pass. The test fee is $175 and must be taken at an FAA-approved knowledge testing center, typically found at airports or aviation schools.
Based on feedback from certified pilots, most people need 15-20 hours of study time to prepare adequately. The FAA provides a free study guide, but many pilots invest in online courses that offer practice tests and structured learning paths.
Operating Rules Under Part 107
Once certified, you must follow these operational requirements for all commercial flights:
Visual line of sight: You must always be able to see your drone with your own eyes, without using binoculars or cameras. First-person view devices can be used only with a visual observer present.
Altitude limits: Maximum flight altitude is 400 feet above ground level, or higher if within 400 feet of a structure.
Daylight operations: Standard Part 107 allows flying only during daylight hours (30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset). Night flying requires additional testing and certification.
Speed restrictions: Maximum groundspeed is 100 mph (87 knots).
Minimum visibility: You must have at least 3 statute miles of visibility during operations.
Cloud clearance: Maintain 500 feet below clouds and 2,000 feet horizontally from clouds.
Operations over people: Standard Part 107 prohibits flying directly over people not involved in the operation. Specific categories of operations over people are now allowed with compliant drones.
One drone at a time: You can only operate one drone at a time unless you have a waiver.
Yielding right of way: Always yield to manned aircraft.
Remote ID Requirements
As of September 2022, most drones used for commercial purposes must broadcast Remote ID information. This requirement applies to all drones weighing more than 250 grams used for commercial operations.
Remote ID broadcasts your drone’s location, altitude, velocity, and the control station’s location. This information helps the FAA and law enforcement identify drones flying in restricted areas.
For aerial photography, you have two options for compliance: use a drone with Standard Remote ID built in (most drones manufactured after September 2022 have this), or use a Remote ID broadcast module attached to your existing drone.
Drone Registration Requirements
All drones used for commercial purposes must be registered with the FAA, regardless of weight. This is a critical point that confuses many new commercial pilots.
The recreational sub-250g exemption does not apply to commercial operations. Even if your drone weighs 249 grams, you must register it if you are flying for business purposes.
Registration costs $5 per drone and is valid for 3 years. You will receive a unique registration number that must be displayed on your drone. Register through the FAA DroneZone website at faadronezone-access.faa.gov.
Recurrent Training Requirements
Your Part 107 certificate does not last forever. You must complete recurrent training every 24 months to maintain your certification. The good news is that as of April 2021, recurrent training can be completed online for free through the FAASTeam website.
The recurrent training covers updates to regulations, new requirements like Remote ID, and refresher content on core knowledge areas. After completing the training, you will receive a certificate that you must carry when flying.
The Part 61 Certificate Exception
If you already hold a Part 61 pilot certificate (for manned aircraft) and have a current flight review, you have a streamlined path to commercial drone certification. Instead of taking the initial knowledge test, you can complete an online training course and apply directly for your Remote Pilot Certificate.
This exception applies to holders of private pilot certificates, sport pilot certificates, recreational pilot certificates, and higher-level pilot certificates. The online training is free and takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete.
How to Get Your Drone License for Aerial Photography In 2026?
Getting your Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is a straightforward process when you break it down into steps. Most pilots complete the entire process in 2-4 weeks, though your timeline may vary depending on test center availability and TSA processing times.
Step 1: Study and Prepare
Start by downloading the FAA’s Part 107 Study Guide, available free on the FAA website. This official resource covers all the topics that will appear on your knowledge test.
Consider investing in an online prep course if you prefer structured learning. Popular options include courses from Pilot Institute, Drone Pilot Ground School, and King Schools. These courses typically cost $100-200 and include practice tests that closely mirror the actual exam.
Focus your study on these high-weight topics: airspace classification (especially Class G and controlled airspace), weather interpretation and METAR reports, sectional chart reading, drone loading and performance calculations, and Part 107 regulations and operating rules.
Take multiple practice tests until you consistently score above 80%. The actual test questions are similar but not identical to practice questions.
Step 2: Schedule Your Knowledge Test
Once you feel prepared, schedule your test through an FAA-approved knowledge testing center. The two main providers are PSI Services and CATS (Computer Assisted Testing Service).
Visit the testing provider’s website to find a location near you and select an available time slot. Most testing centers are located at airports, flight schools, or dedicated testing facilities.
The test fee is $175, payable when you schedule or at the testing center. Bring valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or passport) on test day.
Step 3: Pass the Knowledge Test
Arrive at least 30 minutes early for your test. You will need to present your ID and go through a brief check-in process.
You have 120 minutes to answer 60 multiple-choice questions. Questions are displayed on a computer, and you can mark questions for review before submitting.
A passing score is 70% or higher (42 correct answers). You will receive your results immediately after completing the test. If you pass, you will get a knowledge test report that you will need for your application.
If you do not pass, you can retake the test after 14 days and paying another $175 fee. Most people pass on their first attempt with adequate preparation.
Step 4: Apply Through IACRA
After passing the test, apply for your Remote Pilot Certificate through the FAA’s Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) system at iacra.faa.gov.
Create an account and select “Remote Pilot” as your certificate type. Enter your knowledge test results and personal information accurately. Review everything carefully before submitting, as errors can delay processing.
Make sure your name matches your ID exactly. Any discrepancies will cause delays with TSA vetting.
Step 5: Complete TSA Background Check
After you submit your IACRA application, the TSA conducts a security background check. This process typically takes 1-3 weeks but can take longer if there are any issues with your application.
The TSA checks your identity and screens for disqualifying criminal history. You do not need to do anything during this period except wait.
You can check your application status through the IACRA portal. When the background check clears, your certificate will be issued.
Step 6: Receive Your Certificate
Once approved, you can download your temporary Remote Pilot Certificate immediately from IACRA. This temporary certificate is valid for 120 days and allows you to start flying commercially right away.
Your permanent plastic certificate will arrive by mail within 6-8 weeks. Carry your certificate (temporary or permanent) with you whenever you fly commercially, along with your drone registration and photo ID.
You are now a certified commercial drone pilot and can legally conduct aerial photography for compensation.
Cost and Timeline for Getting Certified
Getting your drone license requires a modest financial investment compared to other professional certifications. Here is a complete breakdown of what you can expect to spend and how long the process typically takes.
Cost Breakdown
Here are the main expenses involved in getting your Part 107 certification:
Knowledge test fee: $175 (paid to testing center)
Study materials: $0-200 (FAA study guide is free; prep courses cost extra)
Drone registration: $5 per drone (valid for 3 years)
Remote ID module (if needed): $50-150 (only for older drones without built-in Remote ID)
Total minimum investment: $180-325 for most new commercial pilots
Ongoing Costs
Beyond initial certification, budget for these recurring expenses:
Recurrent training: Free online through FAASTeam every 24 months
Registration renewal: $5 per drone every 3 years
Insurance: $500-1,500 per year for liability coverage (highly recommended for commercial operations)
Typical Timeline
Here is how long each stage typically takes:
Study and preparation: 1-3 weeks (15-20 hours total study time)
Scheduling and taking the test: 1-2 weeks (varies by testing center availability)
IACRA application: 30 minutes to complete
TSA background check: 1-3 weeks (occasionally longer)
Total time from start to temporary certificate: 3-6 weeks on average
Some pilots complete everything in under 2 weeks by studying intensively and getting an early test appointment. Others take 2-3 months if they study part-time or encounter delays.
Cost Comparison: Part 107 vs Other Certifications
Compared to other professional credentials, Part 107 certification is quite affordable. A private pilot license for manned aircraft costs $10,000-15,000. A real estate license typically costs $2,000-3,000. A commercial driver’s license runs $3,000-7,000. The Part 107 drone license at under $350 total is one of the most accessible professional certifications available.
Additional Requirements for Commercial Drone Photographers
Your Part 107 certificate is just the foundation. Commercial drone photographers need to understand several additional requirements to operate legally and professionally.
Remote ID Compliance
Remote ID became mandatory for most drone operations in September 2022. For aerial photographers, this means your drone must broadcast identification and location information during all flights.
Most drones manufactured after September 2022 have Standard Remote ID built in. Check your drone’s specifications or user manual to confirm. If your drone does not have built-in Remote ID, you must attach a broadcast module before flying commercially.
Remote ID modules cost $50-150 and attach to your drone with Velcro or mounting brackets. They broadcast via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth and must be registered to your FAA drone registration number.
Airspace Authorization (LAANC)
Controlled airspace surrounds most major cities and airports. If your aerial photography job is within controlled airspace, you need authorization before flying.
LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) is the automated system that provides near-real-time airspace authorization. You request authorization through FAA-approved apps like AirMap, Aloft, or Skyward.
Most authorization requests are approved instantly for altitudes below the UAS Facility Map ceiling for your location. Higher altitude requests go to manual review and may take days or weeks.
Always check airspace before accepting a job. Use the B4UFLY app or check sectional charts to determine if you will need authorization.
Insurance Requirements
While not legally required by the FAA, liability insurance is essential for commercial drone photographers. Most clients will require proof of insurance before hiring you.
Drone-specific liability insurance typically covers property damage, bodily injury, and privacy invasion claims. Annual policies range from $500-1,500 depending on coverage limits and deductibles.
Some photographers opt for hourly coverage through services like Verifly or Thimble for occasional jobs. These cost about $10-25 per hour of coverage and work well for pilots who do not fly commercially on a regular basis.
Business Licensing
Your Part 107 certificate is a federal aviation credential, but it does not replace local business requirements. Depending on where you live and operate, you may need:
Business license: Required in most cities and counties for any commercial activity
Sales tax permit: If you sell photography services, you likely need to collect and remit sales tax
DBA or LLC registration: If operating under a business name rather than your personal name
Check with your local city hall or county clerk’s office for specific requirements in your area.
Waivers for Special Operations
Standard Part 107 rules restrict certain operations. If your aerial photography requires flying at night, beyond visual line of sight, over moving vehicles, or above 400 feet, you need a waiver.
Waivers are obtained through the FAA DroneZone website. The application requires detailed safety procedures and risk mitigation plans. Processing times vary from weeks to months depending on complexity.
Night operations are now easier to obtain. As of April 2021, pilots can fly at night by completing online recurrent training that includes night operations content, rather than applying for a separate waiver.
State and Local Regulations
While FAA regulations preempt local drone laws, states and cities can regulate takeoff and landing locations, privacy, and land use. These rules vary widely by location.
For example, some cities prohibit drone takeoff from public parks. Some states have privacy laws that restrict photographing private property. Always research local regulations before flying in a new area.
The FAA cannot help you with local law compliance. Contact the local city attorney’s office or consult a drone attorney if you are unsure about local restrictions.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Flying commercially without proper certification carries serious consequences. The FAA takes enforcement seriously and has pursued action against unlicensed commercial operators.
Civil penalties can reach $27,500 per violation. Criminal penalties for knowing and willful violations can include fines up to $250,000 and imprisonment. Your drone may be confiscated. Insurance will not cover claims from illegal operations.
Beyond FAA penalties, flying without certification exposes you to civil liability if anything goes wrong. Clients injured or whose property is damaged can sue you personally, and you will have no insurance protection.
Based on reports from industry forums, the FAA has issued fines exceeding $10,000 to photographers caught operating commercially without Part 107. The agency monitors social media and online portfolios for evidence of violations.
International Drone Licensing for Aerial Photography
If you plan to photograph internationally or are reading this from outside the United States, drone licensing requirements vary significantly by country. Here is a brief overview of major markets.
United Kingdom
The UK requires registration with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and completion of a flyer ID test. Commercial operators need an Operator ID and must follow specific operational categories. For complex operations, additional certifications like the GVC (General Visual Line of Sight Certificate) may be required. The UK framework closely mirrors European EASA rules.
European Union (EASA)
The EU operates under a unified EASA framework with three categories: Open (low risk), Specific (medium risk), and Certified (high risk). Most aerial photography falls under the Open category, which requires online training and registration. Specific category operations require operational authorization from national aviation authorities.
Canada
Transport Canada requires either Basic or Advanced Operations certification. Basic certification allows operations in uncontrolled airspace with an online exam. Advanced certification requires an in-person flight review and allows operations in controlled airspace. All drones over 250g must be registered.
Australia
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) requires either a RePL (Remote Pilot License) or accreditation for commercial operations. Very small drones (under 2kg) can be flown commercially with just online accreditation. Larger drones require formal licensing and may need a Remote Operator Certificate for business operations.
Key Takeaways for International Operations
Your US Part 107 certificate is not valid internationally. Each country has its own licensing system and regulations. Always research requirements before traveling with your drone. Some countries prohibit drone operations entirely or require advance permits. Consider hiring a locally certified pilot for international projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a business license for drone photography?
Yes, you likely need a business license in addition to your FAA Part 107 certificate. The Part 107 is a federal aviation credential, but most cities and counties require a local business license for any commercial activity. Check with your city hall or county clerk’s office for specific requirements in your area. You may also need a sales tax permit if you are selling photography services.
Can you do anything commercial with a drone without Part 107?
No, you cannot conduct any commercial drone operations without a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. The FAA defines commercial use broadly to include any compensation, including payment, trade of services, or business promotion. Even volunteer work for nonprofits or monetizing YouTube videos requires Part 107 certification. Flying commercially without certification can result in civil penalties up to $27,500 per violation.
What counts as commercial use for a drone?
Commercial use includes any drone operation conducted for business purposes or compensation. This encompasses real estate photography, wedding videography, selling stock footage, YouTube monetization, construction documentation, roof inspections, business promotion, and even volunteer work for nonprofits. The key factor is whether you receive any form of compensation or business benefit, not whether you make a profit.
Who needs a commercial drone license?
Anyone using a drone for business purposes or compensation needs a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. This includes real estate photographers, wedding videographers, construction inspectors, content creators monetizing footage, insurance inspectors, surveyors, and anyone else receiving payment for drone services. The requirement applies regardless of drone weight or flight frequency.
How long does a Part 107 license last?
Your Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate does not expire, but you must complete recurrent training every 24 months to maintain currency. As of April 2021, recurrent training is available online for free through the FAASTeam website. After completing the training, you receive a certificate that you must carry when flying commercially.
Can I fly my drone at night for commercial photography?
Yes, you can fly at night for commercial purposes, but you must complete the night operations training module as part of your recurrent training. This training is available online through FAASTeam and covers night-specific risks and procedures. Once completed, night flying is permitted under Part 107 without a separate waiver. You must have anti-collision lights visible for 3 statute miles.
Getting Started With Your Drone License for Aerial Photography
The answer to whether you need a drone license for commercial aerial photography is clear: yes, without exception. The Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is required for any compensated drone work, from one-off real estate shoots to ongoing construction documentation projects.
The certification process is straightforward and affordable compared to other professional credentials. With an investment of around $200-350 and 3-6 weeks of your time, you can become fully legal to offer aerial photography services. The benefits extend beyond compliance: certified pilots report more confidence, better client relationships, and access to opportunities that require proof of certification.
Your next step is simple. Download the free FAA Part 107 study guide, start preparing for the knowledge test, and schedule your exam at a testing center near you. In less than two months, you could be flying commercially and building your aerial photography portfolio with full legal protection.