Want to fly for work? The FAA's commercial certificate is the gate. Here's the full map — cost, exam, topics, and study plan.
When you need it
The FAA draws the line at purpose, not payment: any flight that isn't strictly recreational — paid shoots, inspections, real estate photos, even unpaid work flights — requires the Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. The full breakdown is at faa.gov — Become a Drone Pilot.
The exam, by the numbers
60 multiple-choice questions, 2 hours
70% to pass (42 correct)
About $175 at an FAA-approved testing center
Minimum age 16, able to read and speak English
Recurrent online training every 24 calendar months (free)
What the exam actually tests
Airspace: classes B, C, D, E, G — and reading sectional charts (the heaviest section; start early)
Weather: METARs, TAFs, wind, density altitude
Regulations: altitude, 100 mph speed cap, visual observers, waivers, operations over people
Performance: weight, balance, battery behavior in heat — yes, Caribbean heat counts
Your 4-week study plan
Week 1: the FAA's free Part 107 study guide and the Airman Certification Standards (ACS)
Week 2: Airspace and sectional charts. Practice reading the San Juan area until it's boring
Week 3: Weather reports and performance. Decode one METAR every morning with coffee
Week 4: Practice exams until you score 85%+ three times in a row
Ready to check yourself?
Take the free Part 107 practice quiz linked from the Rules & Safety hub — 10 real-format questions with explanations. When you pass the real thing, Puerto Rico's rooftops, resorts, and real estate market are waiting.
