The typical rating on the Half 107 take a look at is fairly unhealthy

The Federal Aviation Administration’s Half 107 take a look at, formally referred to as the “Unmanned Plane Normal – Small (UAG) Data Check”, is crucial for anybody trying to change into an authorized drone pilot for industrial operations within the U.S.. However the newest statistics for 2024 supplied by the FAA reveal a shocking actuality: the typical rating on the Half 107 take a look at is nothing to brag about.

Out of the 67,576 individuals who took the Small Unmanned Plane Check in 2024, the typical rating was 79.95%. In the meantime, the cross fee was 84.2%. Whereas that’s above the minimal passing rating of 70%, it’s decrease than I definitely anticipated. That’s not even a B!

Common take a look at scores on the take a look at to change into an authorized drone pilot are additionally decrease than common scores on different FAA-issued assessments. To place it in perspective, the general cross fee throughout all FAA-issued Airman Data Exams in 2024 was 89.51%.

How the Half 107 take a look at compares to different FAA assessments

The Small Unmanned Plane Check isn’t simply one among many assessments supplied by the FAA — it’s truly the most well-liked. However recognition doesn’t essentially imply larger scores. In truth, fairly the alternative.

For comparability:

• Airplane Personal Pilot’s Check: 46,132 folks took this take a look at in 2024, with a mean rating of 82.89% and a cross fee of 91.9%.
• Airplane Instrument Ranking Check: 25,647 test-takers achieved a mean rating of 85.64% and a cross fee of 94.24%.

And what in regards to the take a look at with the very best common rating? That honor belongs to the Army Competence Teacher Data Check, which had a mean rating of 95.07% and a jaw-dropping cross fee of 99.38% amongst its 641 test-takers.

So why do drone pilots are inclined to carry out worse on their take a look at? A part of the reply could lie within the number of folks taking the take a look at — from hobbyists trying to flip skilled to skilled aviators increasing their {qualifications}. With such a various group, it’s probably that some test-takers aren’t absolutely ready, which drags down the averages.

Ideas for passing the Half 107 Check

The Half 107 take a look at covers a variety of matters, from airspace classifications to climate, rules and emergency procedures. Whereas it’s not an insurmountable feat to cross (hey, I handed on my first attempt!), success requires correct preparation.

Listed here are among the greatest methods to make sure you’re a part of the passing proportion:

1. Spend money on an on-line Half 107 take a look at prep course. Complete on-line programs like Drone Pilot Floor Faculty and Drone Launch Academy are tailor-made particularly that will help you cross the Half 107 take a look at. These programs present video classes, apply assessments and quizzes that mimic the actual take a look at.
2. Search for reductions. Don’t fail the take a look at simply since you couldn’t afford to pay for a web-based course. There are a bunch of promo codes on the market. For instance, Drone Pilot Floor Faculty is providing an unique low cost for Drone Woman readers to get you $100 off utilizing coupon code DRONEGIRL100. 
3. Observe, apply, apply. Taking apply assessments is essential to determine your weak areas and enhance your understanding of key matters. Lots of these aforementioned on-line programs embody limitless apply assessments. However, if you happen to don’t wish to spring the a number of a whole bunch of {dollars} for a full course, you would probably get away with shopping for a apply take a look at solely. There are many good ones for $15 or much less, just like the Prime Observe Check from Peltier Picture Programs.
4. Concentrate on airspace and climate, particularly. These matters are sometimes probably the most difficult for test-takers. Allocate additional time to mastering them.
5. Present up with every thing you want. Don’t add layers of stress on take a look at day since you weren’t ready with the bodily gadgets it’s worthwhile to carry to the Half 107 take a look at. That features a legitimate, government-issued ID.

What’s the Half 107 take a look at?

The FAA Half 107 take a look at is an examination required to change into an authorized drone pilot in america. Passing this take a look at grants you a Distant Pilot Certificates from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In flip, that permits you to legally function drones for industrial functions beneath the Half 107 Small UAS Rule.

It covers matters together with airspace classifications, drone efficiency, security procedures, decoding aeronautical fees, restrictions, and flight operations. The take a look at is multiple-choice with 60 questions. It’s carried out in-person at an FAA-approved Data Testing Middle (use this hyperlink to discover a location close to you). You’ll must pay a test-taking payment (usually about $175).

Why preparation issues

Whereas a rating of 79.95% is sufficient to cross, aiming larger than the typical rating on the Half 107 take a look at is the aim. Passing with an A demonstrates a robust understanding of the foundations and rules governing drones, which in the end results in safer skies for everybody. Plus, a deeper information of those ideas can improve your confidence and credibility as a drone pilot.

To not point out, don’t pay the $175 test-taking payment solely to fail (although for what it’s value, many on-line Half 107 take a look at prep programs will refund you if you happen to fail — simply one other incentive to take the course by means of them).

If you happen to’re planning to take the Half 107 take a look at, do not forget that success isn’t nearly passing — it’s about really understanding the fabric. With the fitting preparation instruments and a targeted research plan, you’ll be able to beat the typical rating and be a part of the ranks of extremely competent drone pilots.

Oh, and if you happen to’re questioning, I scored 90% once I took the Half 107 take a look at. I might positively do higher — and I’m nonetheless studying extra about drones even to this present day. However, I did beat the typical rating on the Half 107 take a look at.

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