The Federal Aviation Administration’s Part 107 test, officially called the “Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG) Knowledge Test”, is essential for anyone looking to become a certified drone pilot for commercial operations in the U.S.. But the latest statistics for 2024 provided by the FAA reveal a surprising reality: the average score on the Part 107 test is nothing to brag about.
Out of the 67,576 people who took the Small Unmanned Aircraft Test in 2024, the average score was 79.95%. Meanwhile, the pass rate was 84.2%. While that’s above the minimum passing score of 70%, it’s lower than I certainly expected. That’s not even a B!
Average test scores on the test to become a certified drone pilot are also lower than average scores on other FAA-issued tests. To put it in perspective, the overall pass rate across all FAA-issued Airman Knowledge Tests in 2024 was 89.51%.
How the Part 107 test compares to other FAA tests
The Small Unmanned Aircraft Test isn’t just one of many tests offered by the FAA — it’s actually the most popular. But popularity doesn’t necessarily mean higher scores. In fact, quite the opposite.
For comparison:
- Airplane Private Pilot’s Test: 46,132 people took this test in 2024, with an average score of 82.89% and a pass rate of 91.9%.
- Airplane Instrument Rating Test: 25,647 test-takers achieved an average score of 85.64% and a pass rate of 94.24%.
And what about the test with the highest average score? That honor belongs to the Military Competence Instructor Knowledge Test, which had an average score of 95.07% and a jaw-dropping pass rate of 99.38% among its 641 test-takers.
So why do drone pilots tend to perform worse on their test? Part of the answer may lie in the variety of people taking the test — from hobbyists looking to turn professional to experienced aviators expanding their qualifications. With such a diverse group, it’s likely that some test-takers aren’t fully prepared, which drags down the averages.
Tips for passing the Part 107 Test
The Part 107 test covers a wide range of topics, from airspace classifications to weather, regulations and emergency procedures. While it’s not an insurmountable feat to pass (hey, I passed on my first try!), success requires proper preparation.
Here are some of the best ways to ensure you’re part of the passing percentage:
- Invest in an online Part 107 test prep course. Comprehensive online courses like Drone Pilot Ground School and Drone Launch Academy are tailored specifically to help you pass the Part 107 test. These courses provide video lessons, practice tests and quizzes that mimic the real test.
- Look for discounts. Don’t fail the test just because you couldn’t afford to pay for an online course. There are a bunch of promo codes out there. For example, Drone Pilot Ground School is offering an exclusive discount for Drone Girl readers to get you $100 off using coupon code DRONEGIRL100.
- Practice, practice, practice. Taking practice tests is crucial to identify your weak areas and improve your understanding of key topics. Many of those aforementioned online courses include unlimited practice tests. But, if you don’t want to spring the multiple hundreds of dollars for a full course, you could likely get away with buying a practice test only. There are plenty of good ones for $15 or less, like the Prime Practice Test from Peltier Photo Courses.
- Focus on airspace and weather, especially. These topics are often the most challenging for test-takers. Allocate extra time to mastering them.
- Show up with everything you need. Don’t add layers of stress on test day because you weren’t prepared with the physical items you need to bring to the Part 107 test. That includes a valid, government-issued ID.
What is the Part 107 test?
The FAA Part 107 test is an exam required to become a certified drone pilot in the United States. Passing this test grants you a Remote Pilot Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In turn, that allows you to legally operate drones for commercial purposes under the Part 107 Small UAS Rule.
It covers topics including airspace classifications, drone performance, safety procedures, interpreting aeronautical charges, restrictions, and flight operations. The test is multiple-choice with 60 questions. It’s conducted in-person at an FAA-approved Knowledge Testing Center (use this link to find a location near you). You’ll need to pay a test-taking fee (typically about $175).
Why preparation matters
While a score of 79.95% is enough to pass, aiming higher than the average score on the Part 107 test is the goal. Passing with an A demonstrates a strong understanding of the rules and regulations governing drones, which ultimately leads to safer skies for everyone. Plus, a deeper knowledge of these concepts can enhance your confidence and credibility as a drone pilot.
Not to mention, don’t pay the $175 test-taking fee only to fail (though for what it’s worth, many online Part 107 test prep courses will refund you if you fail — just another incentive to take the course through them).
If you’re planning to take the Part 107 test, remember that success isn’t just about passing — it’s about truly understanding the material. With the right preparation tools and a focused study plan, you can beat the average score and join the ranks of highly competent drone pilots.
Oh, and if you’re wondering, I scored 90% when I took the Part 107 test. I could definitely do better — and I’m still learning more about drones even to this day. But, I did beat the average score on the Part 107 test.
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