How long does it take to get a Part 107 certificate?
Understand the typical FAA Part 107 certification timeline from FTN and testing through IACRA, security vetting, and temporary Remote Pilot Certificate issuance.
The total timeline depends on how quickly you prepare, find a testing appointment, pass the UAG exam, and complete IACRA. The FAA notes that a passed knowledge test may take up to 48 hours to appear in IACRA, and first-time applicants can typically receive a temporary certificate after TSA vetting, which the FAA says it anticipates within about 10 business days after a completed application.
Preparation and test scheduling control the first part
The FAA process starts with obtaining an FAA Tracking Number (FTN), scheduling the UAG knowledge test, and passing it. Study time and local testing-center availability vary by applicant and location.
IACRA comes after the knowledge test
After passing, you complete FAA Form 8710-13 in IACRA. The FAA notes that it may take up to 48 hours for the knowledge-test record to appear in IACRA before you can finish that step.
Temporary certification follows security vetting
For applicants using the initial knowledge-test pathway, the FAA issues the temporary certificate after successful TSA security vetting. The FAA says it anticipates temporary certificates within about 10 business days after receiving a completed application.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get Part 107 in one day?
You can complete parts of the process quickly, but certification involves testing, IACRA, and security vetting, so the complete process is not guaranteed to finish in one day.
How long until my test result appears in IACRA?
The FAA says it may take up to 48 hours from the test date for the knowledge test to appear in IACRA.
How long does the temporary certificate take?
The FAA says it anticipates temporary certificates within about 10 business days after receiving a completed application for first-time applicants.