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Renewals & recurrent knowledge testing

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Renewals & recurrent knowledge testing

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Knowledge Testing

Renewals & Recurrent Knowledge Testing for Part 107 Drone Pilots

Becoming a certified drone pilot under FAA Part 107 is a major accomplishment, but it’s not a one-time task. To continue flying commercially, you must stay current with renewal requirements and recurrent training. These ensure you remain up to date with evolving regulations, safety practices, and airspace knowledge.

Here’s what you need to know about maintaining your Remote Pilot Certificate.

Why Recurrent Training Is Important

The drone industry and the FAA’s airspace rules change frequently. What was true two years ago may no longer apply today. Recurrent training ensures that all commercial drone pilots:

  • Understand the latest FAA regulations
  • Stay updated on airspace classifications and restrictions
  • Know about new technologies and procedures
  • Are capable of making safe, informed decisions during operations

Even experienced pilots can benefit from refreshing their knowledge periodically.

How Often Do You Need to Renew Your Part 107 Certification?

Previously, Part 107 pilots were required to pass a recurrent knowledge test every 24 months (2 years) at an FAA-approved testing center.

However, as of April 2021, the FAA updated the renewal process.

Instead of taking a paid, in-person exam again, you now complete free recurrent training online through the FAA’s FAASafety.gov website.

What Does the Recurrent Training Include?

The online training is titled:
“Part 107 Small UAS Recurrent – Non-Part 61 Pilots.”
This training covers updated topics such as:

  • Night operations (now allowed under new rules without a waiver)
  • Remote identification (RID) requirements
  • Remote identification (RID) requirements
  • Remote identification (RID) requirements
  • Airspace classification and chart reading
  • Risk management
  • Operational limitations under Part 107
  • Emergency procedures
  • Weather impacts on drones

The course includes instructional videos and knowledge checks, followed by an online quiz at the end. You must score at least 100% to pass. Don’t worry—you can retake it as many times as needed.

Where and How to Take the Recurrent Training

  1. Visit https://FAASafety.gov
  2. Create a free account or log in.
  3. Enroll in the course:
    “Part 107 Small UAS Recurrent – Non-Part 61 Pilots”
  4. Complete the training modules and final quiz.
  5. Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a completion certificate.

This certificate should be saved and printed for your records. You do not need to submit it to the FAA unless requested.

Important Notes

  1. No FAA Testing Center visit is required for renewal.
  2. The online recurrent training is free.
  3. If your certification lapses (you miss the renewal date), you must complete the recurrent training before resuming commercial flights.
  4. You still need to maintain a current TSA background clearance and follow all Part 107 rules.

Recurrent Training for Part 61 Certificate Holders

If you hold a Part 61 pilot certificate (such as for manned aircraft), your renewal process is slightly different. You must complete a separate training module also available on FAASafety.gov.

Stay Legal, Stay Safe

Renewing your Part 107 certificate isn’t just about staying legal—it’s about staying safe and knowledgeable in a rapidly evolving industry. FAA recurrent training is straightforward, accessible, and vital for long-term success as a commercial drone pilot.

Mark your calendar, complete your recurrent training on time, and continue flying with confidence.