FAA Part 107 Rule and Law Enforcement Drone Use – What You Need to Know
On June 21, 2016, the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) announced the highly anticipated Part 107 rule, which officially went into effect on August 29, 2016. This was a landmark change for law enforcement drone operations, removing many barriers and opening the door for agencies to deploy drones in public safety missions. Below are answers to the top questions agencies still ask about FAA Part 107 and what it means for your drone program.
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1. Is a manned pilot’s license still required to fly a drone?
No. A traditional airman’s certificate is not required to pilot a drone. However, a Remote Pilot Certificate under Part 107 is required.
2. I already have a pilot’s license. Do I need anything else?
It depends. If you are operating drones under an existing COA (Certificate of Authorization) or Section 333 exemption, you may continue under those terms. If you wish to operate under Part 107, an abbreviated Remote Pilot Certificate is required. Existing pilots can now take an online course and test to qualify.
3. Is training required for drone flight?
While not mandated under Part 107, training is strongly recommended. Part 107 requires passing a test of competency covering drone operations and airspace navigation, administered at an FAA testing center.
4. Should our agency still pursue a COA?
Yes, in many cases. Part 107 is similar to a driver’s license—it certifies individual operators. A COA, however, acts as a blanket license for the agency, allowing self-certification of pilots and long-term program management. For agencies developing robust programs with multiple participants, a COA remains highly beneficial.
5. Where can I take a class for the Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate?
Training is widely available online, often through FAA-approved providers. The FAA updates its training information regularly—visit the official FAA training page here: FAA Training Resources.
Updates: FAA has released testing standards and sample exams:
6. Where can I take the test?
Testing is available at FAA testing centers nationwide. Click here for locations.
7. What does the test cover?
Topics include: drone regulations, airspace navigation, weather, payloads and performance, crew management, radio procedures, drug and alcohol effects, decision making, airport operations, maintenance, and preflight inspections.
8. Is a background check required?
Yes. A TSA background check must be completed prior to receiving a Remote Pilot Certificate.
9. How long is the certificate valid?
The Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is valid for two years.
10. How much does it cost?
The FAA testing fee is currently $150.
11. Where can I get more information?
You can always contact the MAXSUR team for guidance on FAA compliance and selecting the right drones for your program. We hold FAA authorizations and have supported many agencies in launching successful drone programs. You can also check the FAA’s official Part 107 FAQ page.
Addendum: Looking Ahead to FAA Part 108
The FAA is currently developing Part 108, a new rule designed specifically for public safety and governmental drone operations. While final details have not yet been published, Part 108 is expected to simplify operations for agencies such as police, fire, and emergency management. Likely enhancements include:
- Expanded authority for night operations, BVLOS (beyond visual line of sight), and flights over people
- Streamlined paperwork compared to traditional COA processes
- More flexibility for agencies to quickly scale their drone programs during emergencies
For agencies planning ahead, now is the time to evaluate your drone fleets and policies. The same principles that apply under Part 107—training, compliance, and program management—will carry over, but Part 108 is expected to provide broader operational freedom. Stay ready by ensuring your team is equipped with modern, mission-ready aircraft. Explore our full range of platforms in the MAXSUR Drone Collection.
MAXSUR Team Contact Info:
Email: ops@maxsur.com
Phone: 314-270-2150 (M–F, 8–6 CST)