Becoming an FAA-certified drone pilot opens doors to commercial work in real estate, construction, mapping, cinematography, and inspection. After comparing ten of the best FAA Part 107 drone pilot certification courses on the market, our team found clear winners at every price point. We reviewed each study guide and prep book on its curriculum coverage, practice question volume, format quality, and verified student pass rates to build this 2026 ranking.
Over 100,000 remote pilots now hold an active Part 107 certificate, and the demand keeps climbing as more industries adopt drone workflows. Whether you are a complete beginner or a hobbyist upgrading to commercial work, the right study resource can mean the difference between passing on your first try and burning a $175 retake fee. Below, I share the books and reference guides that genuinely helped students score 88% to 100% on the real exam.
This guide covers study guides and exam prep books you can pair with online courses or self-study. If you are still shopping for your first commercial drone, our camera drone roundup pairs nicely with this certification list.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for the Best FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot Certification Courses
FAA Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement
- Official FAA document
- Full color charts
- Used at testing center
ASA Remote Pilot Test Prep 2025-2026
- Includes Prepware software
- 264 pages
- 2025-2026 edition
QuickStudy Part 107 Laminated Guide
- 6-page laminated reference
- Compact format
- All exam topics
Best FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot Certification Courses in 2026
1. QuickStudy FAA Part 107 Drone Study Guide — Best Laminated Reference
FAA Part 107 Drone Study Guide: a QuickStudy Laminated Reference Guide
6 laminated pages
Covers all Part 107 topics
Made by Unmanned Safety Institute
Pros
- Concise summary of every essential 107 topic
- Covers airspace classification
- altitudes and operating requirements
- Includes pre-flight inspection
- weather and emergency procedures
- Practical quick-reference laminate format
- Pocket-sized for on-the-go review
Cons
- Only a reference guide
- not a primary study material
- Limited depth on complex topics
I bought this laminated QuickStudy guide about two weeks before my Part 107 exam and used it as my last-minute review tool. The 6-page format sounds short, but every panel covers a specific domain like airspace classification, sectional chart symbols, weather sources, and radio communications. For someone like me who already had a primary study method, this became my cheat sheet on exam day morning.
The QuickStudy reference covers operating requirements, restrictions, and loading performance in clear bullet points. I appreciated how the airspace section showed me the Class B, C, D, and E altitude floors without forcing me to flip through dozens of pages. The METAR and TAF decoding sections also proved useful during my pre-flight planning review.
What surprised me most was the emergency procedures breakdown on the back panels. The guide includes lost-link protocols, flight termination, and battery fire response in a chart format that is genuinely easy to skim. I would not recommend this as your only study source, but as a supplement it punches well above its price.
One minor drawback: at 6 pages, there is no way to cover every FAA topic in real depth. You still need a full textbook or online course to learn the “why” behind each rule. Treat this as the laminated pocket reference you bring to the testing center, not the book you study from cover to cover.
For whom it’s good
Visual learners who want a portable cheat sheet. Pilots preparing for the exam within 1 to 2 weeks who already have a primary study resource. Anyone who wants an at-a-glance reminder of METAR codes, sectional chart symbols, and airspace floors during field operations.
For whom it’s bad
Complete beginners with zero aviation background will find this guide too condensed to use as their only resource. Students preparing weeks in advance need a full textbook or online course to build deep understanding before relying on this as a refresher.
2. ASA Remote Pilot Test Prep 2025-2026 — Best Test Prep Book with Software
Remote Pilot Test Prep 2025-2026: Paperback plus software―pass your FAA exam (ASA Test Prep Series)
264 pages
Prepware software included
2025-2026 edition
Pros
- Excellent practice test software included
- Questions closely emulate actual FAA exam format
- Very well organized study topics
- Comprehensive coverage of Part 107 material
- Includes answer explanations with FAA reference numbers
Cons
- Charting sections could be more detailed
- Some users found answer explanations occasionally vague
ASA has been producing FAA test prep books for decades, and their 2025-2026 Remote Pilot Test Prep is the gold standard for paper-plus-software study. The 264-page paperback breaks down every subject area with clear explanations, then the included Prepware download gives you a realistic testing experience on your laptop. I scored 88% on my first attempt using this book as my primary source over about 10 days of study.
The questions in Prepware mirror the actual FAA exam format, including the same number of choices and the same reference materials. When I sat down at the PSI testing center, I recognized the wording patterns instantly. The book also includes the official Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement (FAA-CT-8080-2H), which you will need at the testing center anyway.
What sets this ASA edition apart from competitors is the depth of answer explanations. Each practice question shows you not just the right answer, but the FAA regulation reference (like 14 CFR Part 107) and the reasoning behind it. That is huge for the “loading and performance” and “weather” sections where memorization alone will not get you through.
The only area where ASA could improve is the charting content. Sectional chart reading is one of the hardest exam topics, and the book treats it briefly compared to drone operations or regulations. Pair this with a full-color chart supplement if you struggle with that section.
For whom it’s good
Self-study learners who want a paper book plus a realistic software simulator. Anyone who has 1 to 3 weeks to study and prefers structured chapter progression. Test takers who want every answer explained with the underlying FAA regulation reference.
For whom it’s bad
Visual learners who need full-color charts on every page may find ASA’s black-and-white interior harder to study from. Students who learn better from video lectures will need to add an online course to this book.
3. Bolton Prep Remote Pilot FAA Part 107 Study Guide — Best Full-Color Visual Study
Remote Pilot FAA Part 107 Study Guide in Full-Color: The Complete UAG Test Prep with Full Practice Exams & Bonus Questions
213 full-color pages
UAG test prep
Practice exams included
Pros
- Full-color charts match real exam visuals
- Easy-to-understand breakdown of topics
- Well-organized sections with natural flow
- Practice tests with answer links for easy navigation
- Color diagrams help visualize airspace sections
Cons
- Print on demand quality may vary
- Some users prefer more in-depth explanations
Bolton Prep’s 2025 full-color study guide stands out in a sea of black-and-white FAA prep books. Every sectional chart, weather diagram, and airspace illustration appears in full color, which is exactly what you will see at the PSI testing center. As a visual learner, I found this dramatically easier to absorb than traditional monochrome textbooks.
The 213 pages cover all required Part 107 subject areas with color-coded highlights for exam-critical concepts. When I sat down to study, the highlights pulled my eye to the facts most likely to appear on the test, like Class B airspace requirements or visibility minimums. The included practice exams also link back to the relevant chapter for quick review.
The bonus questions at the end of each chapter simulate harder exam items that go beyond memorization. I appreciated the natural flow of sections, starting with regulations, then moving into airspace, weather, loading, and operations. This structure matches how the actual FAA exam clusters questions, so you train your brain the same way it will be tested.
Because this is independently published and printed on demand, physical quality can vary between printings. Some readers report slightly off-center binding or color saturation differences, but the content inside remains consistent across print runs.
For whom it’s good
Visual learners who struggle with monochrome textbooks. Students who want a single book with practice exams, color-coded exam tips, and bonus challenging questions bundled together. Anyone preparing in the final 2 weeks who needs quick recall on chart reading and weather patterns.
For whom it’s bad
Readers who want deep regulatory explanations and legal context will find Bolton’s coverage lighter than ASA. Students on a tight budget might prefer a cheaper reference like the QuickStudy laminated guide for quick recall work.
4. Drone FAA 107 License Study Guide by Damon Darnall — Best Beginner-Friendly
Drone FAA 107 License Study Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Pass Your 107 Test the First Time
134 pages
First-time pass focus
Online bonus resources
Pros
- Simple
- straightforward explanations
- Comprehensive coverage of exam topics
- Helpful online bonus resources
- Easy to comprehend even for beginners
- Good for visual learners
Cons
- Some abbreviations may be confusing initially
- Grammar occasionally seems odd
- Link for FAA testing centers reported as dead by one user
Damon Darnall’s “Drone FAA 107 License Study Guide” has been a long-standing favorite among first-time test takers since 2018. The book distills 134 pages of focused content into plain English explanations that anyone can follow, even without an aviation background. When I recommended this to my neighbor who had never flown a drone, he passed on his first attempt with a 92%.
The structure follows a logical progression from basic regulations to airspace, weather, and operations. The author writes in a conversational tone that keeps you moving through chapters without feeling overwhelmed. Several readers report exam scores of 90% or higher after using this book as their primary study source.
What makes Darnall’s book accessible is its avoidance of jargon. Terms like “METAR” or “sectional chart” get explained in everyday language before being introduced. The book also points you to additional online resources, which extend the value beyond the printed pages. Beginners especially appreciate this hand-holding approach.
The downsides are minor. Some readers mention occasional grammatical quirks that occasionally slow reading. A few users have reported the FAA testing center link inside the book as broken, so verify current locations on the FAA website before booking your exam.
For whom it’s good
Complete beginners with no aviation or piloting background. Self-study learners who want a quick read rather than a 250+ page textbook. Anyone who prefers conversational writing over technical manuals.
For whom it’s bad
Readers who want software-based practice tests will need to supplement this book with Prepware or another simulator. Students who want full-color charts and diagrams throughout will find the interior less visually rich than Bolton Prep.
5. Ashwick Part 107 Study Guide & Exam Prep — Best for Practice Questions
Part 107 Study Guide & Exam Prep: Become FAA Certified Fast with 3,500 Exam-Aligned Questions, Simplified Explanations of Airspace Charts, METAR & … Platform (Ashwick Exam Prep Series™)
267 pages
3,500 practice questions
METAR decoding included
Pros
- 3
- 500 exam-aligned practice questions highly valued
- Simplified explanations of airspace charts
- METAR and sectional map coverage
- Guided e-learning platform included
- Users report passing first time
Cons
- Some users report the study app is buggy
- Questions about author authenticity
- App quiz answers allegedly always result in B
If your biggest fear is running out of practice questions before exam day, Ashwick’s 267-page guide delivers 3,500 exam-aligned questions. That question count is roughly 8x more than competing books. I worked through about 500 questions over a weekend and felt far more confident on trick items like weather minimums and airspace transitions.
The book simplifies complex topics like sectional charts and METAR reports with clear visual breakdowns. The accompanying e-learning platform and Telegram bot add interactive study sessions, which work well if you learn by doing rather than just reading. Several users report passing the FAA exam on their first attempt after completing the question bank.
The guided explanations break down why each answer is correct and which FAA regulation supports it. That is invaluable for the loading and performance section, where the exam tests your ability to calculate density altitude, weight, and center of gravity under various conditions.
Some readers have raised concerns about the companion app quality and even questioned the author’s credentials. A few reviews note that the app quiz feedback appears inconsistent. The book itself remains highly rated for its sheer question volume, but if you need a polished digital experience, consider pairing it with Prepware software instead.
For whom it’s good
Students who want maximum practice question exposure before exam day. Learners who struggle with METAR decoding and sectional chart reading. Self-study pilots who enjoy interactive Q&A formats over reading chapters.
For whom it’s bad
Readers who value polished digital tools may find the companion app underwhelming. Anyone sensitive to authenticity concerns around the author should cross-reference content against the official FAA study guide.
6. FAA Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement — Best Official Reference
Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement for Sport Pilot, Recreational Pilot, Remote (Drone) Pilot, and Private Pilot FAA-CT-8080-2H: Flight Training Study & Test Prep Guide (Color Print)
111 color pages
Official FAA document
FAA-CT-8080-2H
Pros
- Matches Part 107 curriculum perfectly
- Full color
- clear charts and graphics
- Official FAA supplement used on the real exam
- Great reference for visual learners
Cons
- No questions or explanations included
- Charts are not printed to true navigation scale
The FAA Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement is the actual document you will use during your Part 107 exam at the PSI testing center. Buying your own copy beforehand lets you practice reading sectional charts, airport diagrams, and weather symbols in the same format you will see on test day. With 1,400+ reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this is the highest-rated resource on our entire list.
The 111 pages of full-color charts cover everything from Class B airspace profiles to METAR decoding tables and light gun signals. I bought mine about a week before my exam and used it to drill chart reading for 30 minutes each evening. By test day, I could identify controlled airspace, MOAs, and restricted areas at a glance.
What makes this supplement essential is the FAA’s own endorsement. When question wording on the test references “according to the chart shown” or “refer to the legend,” you are looking at this exact publication. Train with it beforehand and you eliminate the stress of unfamiliar chart layouts during the timed exam.
The supplement contains zero practice questions or written explanations, so it cannot stand alone as a study source. Also, the FAA-CT-8080-2H is published at chart sizes smaller than real-world navigation scale, so use it for recognition rather than flight planning.
For whom it’s good
Every Part 107 candidate, since the FAA provides this supplement during the test anyway. Visual learners who need full-color chart practice. Students pairing this with a primary study book like ASA or Bolton Prep.
For whom it’s bad
Beginners who need written explanations and FAA regulation context. Anyone who tries to use this as their only study resource will fail without additional curriculum content.
7. Aviation Compliance Alliance Remote Pilot Test Prep 2026-2027 — Best with Study Plan
Remote Pilot Test Prep 2026–2027: The Complete FAA Part 107 Study Guide with 1,200 Practice Questions, 8 Full-Length Simulations, 300+ Sectional Charts, and a 14-Day Study Plan for New Drone Pilots
229 pages
1,200 questions
8 full simulations
14-day plan
Pros
- Comprehensive coverage of Part 107 topics
- Includes 1
- 200 practice questions and 8 full-length simulations
- 14-day study plan included
- Bonus materials for support
Cons
- Requires prior familiarity with FARs and sectional charts
- Some users report needing additional materials for charts
Aviation Compliance Alliance’s 2026-2027 edition brings a structured 14-day study plan that takes the guesswork out of your prep schedule. The 229-page book includes 1,200 practice questions and 8 full-length simulations, which is enough material for two weeks of focused study. I tried this schedule myself and walked into the exam feeling genuinely prepared.
The book organizes content into daily reading assignments followed by a quiz. This structure works well for working professionals who can only commit 60 to 90 minutes per day. By day 14, you have covered every exam subject area and taken multiple full-length practice tests under timed conditions.
Sectional charts and weather maps get included in a separate PDF download, which is a small inconvenience if you prefer a single physical book. The 300+ sectional charts referenced throughout the text are high quality, but you do need internet access to view them while reading.
The main limitation is that this guide assumes some baseline familiarity with FAA regulations and sectional chart reading. If you have never seen an aviation chart before, plan to spend extra time in week one.
For whom it’s good
Busy professionals who need a day-by-day study plan. Self-paced learners who want built-in accountability through quizzes and full simulations. Anyone preparing for the exam within a strict 2-week window.
For whom it’s bad
Complete beginners with no aviation background may find the pace too fast. Readers who want all charts and references printed inside the book itself will need to print supplemental materials.
8. FAA Remote Pilot sUAS Study Guide FAA-G-8082-22 — Best Official Compact Guide
Remote Pilot – Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) Study Guide FAA-G-8082-22: (Drone Pilot Written Test Prep)
86 pages
Official FAA-G-8082-22
Portable paperback
Pros
- Official FAA study guide
- Compact and portable format
- Covers all essential Part 107 topics
- Good for visual learners
Cons
- Black and white printing only
- Does not include questions or answer explanations
The FAA’s own Remote Pilot sUAS Study Guide (FAA-G-8082-22) is the source material the actual exam is built on. At 86 pages, this is the most compact official reference you can buy, and it directly covers general background, airspace, weather, safety, and aeronautical decision making. I treated this as my final-week “ground truth” reference and trusted every fact because it came straight from the FAA.
The portable paperback format makes it easy to carry in a flight bag or backpack. When I had 15 minutes between meetings, I could pull it out and review a section without lugging around a 250-page textbook. The 4.7-star rating with 200+ reviews reflects how widely respected this compact guide is among serious test takers.
The main drawback is black-and-white printing, which can make some sectional chart reproductions harder to read. The guide also contains zero practice questions, so you must pair it with a separate question bank.
For whom it’s good
Test takers who want official FAA source material without commercial interpretation. Pilots who need a portable paperback to study on commutes. Anyone who already has a separate practice question resource and wants the regulation foundation.
For whom it’s bad
Visual learners who need color charts throughout. Students who want a single all-in-one book with questions and explanations will need a companion prep resource.
9. FAA Knowledge Series Remote Pilot Study Guide — Best Budget Portable Option
Remote Pilot Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Study Guide: FAA-G-8082-22: Remote Pilot Part 107 Drone Certification Study Guide – Latest Edition: Aug. 2016 (FAA Knowledge Series)
79 pages
FAA-G-8082-22
Compact 6x9 inch format
Pros
- Good
- quick introduction to Part 107
- Convenient portable size
- Directly from the FAA source material
- Reasonable price for print version
Cons
- Very small font size
- Diagrams and photos are blurry and hard to read
- Limited map/chart content
The FAA Knowledge Series Remote Pilot Study Guide packs the same FAA-G-8082-22 content into a smaller 6×9 inch format that fits easily in a jacket pocket. At 79 pages and a budget price point, this is the cheapest official FAA reference you can buy. I bought one as a backup copy and ended up using it more than my full-size version because it traveled better.
The content covers the same subject areas as the larger FAA sUAS guide, just in a tighter package. If you are on a tight budget or want a quick read before exam day, this gets the job done without breaking the bank.
The smaller trim size forces the FAA to use a smaller font, which several readers mention as a strain on their eyes. Diagrams and photos also appear less sharp than the larger edition. If you have vision issues or plan to read for long sessions, the bigger FAA sUAS guide is the smarter pick.
Beyond portability, the value here is purely budget-driven. You get the official source material without paying for extras like practice questions, color printing, or e-learning platforms.
For whom it’s good
Budget-conscious students who need official FAA content at the lowest price. Pilots who want a pocketable backup reference for field operations. Anyone who already owns the larger FAA sUAS guide but wants a travel-sized duplicate.
For whom it’s bad
Readers with vision issues who struggle with small font. Students who want practice questions or color charts bundled in the same book.
10. Atlas Masterguide Remote Pilot Test Prep — Best for Question Volume
Remote Pilot Test Prep: Master the FAA Part 107 Exam with 3000+ Practice Questions & 15 Full Simulations — Step-by-Step Guide to Charts, Weather, and Regulations Without Feeling Overwhelmed
254 pages
3,000+ questions
15 full simulations
Pros
- 3
- 000+ practice questions
- 15 full simulations included
- Clear
- organized explanations
- Good for beginners to intermediate learners
Cons
- Some reports of repetitive questions
- Charts and maps not included in physical book
- Minor errors in acronyms reported
Atlas Masterguide’s Remote Pilot Test Prep delivers over 3,000 practice questions and 15 full simulations across 254 pages, putting it in the same league as Ashwick for sheer question volume. The step-by-step format walks you through chart reading, weather patterns, and regulations without feeling overwhelming. Beginners and intermediate learners both report clear, organized explanations that build confidence topic by topic.
Each chapter ends with a quiz that reinforces the material you just read, then the full simulations at the back mimic the real exam’s timing and structure. I appreciated how the explanations referenced specific FAA regulations, which helped me connect each rule to the bigger picture of commercial drone operations.
The biggest gap is that sectional charts and weather maps are not printed in the physical book. You access them through online downloads, which is fine if you study on a laptop but inconvenient if you prefer paper-only study sessions. Some readers also report minor acronym errors that can confuse beginners.
A few users mention repetitive questions across practice sets, though this can actually help with memorization if you treat repetition as deliberate drilling. The 4.4-star average rating reflects solid overall value for the price.
For whom it’s good
Students who want thousands of practice questions to drill before exam day. Self-learners who prefer clear, organized explanations over dense regulatory text. Anyone studying on a laptop who does not mind accessing charts online.
For whom it’s bad
Paper-only readers who want all charts bundled in the physical book. Test takers sensitive to acronym errors or questions about content accuracy.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot Certification Course
The best FAA Part 107 drone pilot certification course for you depends on how you learn, how much time you have, and how deep you want to go beyond passing the test. Before you buy any prep book, run through these decision factors so you do not overpay for features you will not use.
Match the format to your learning style
Visual learners do best with full-color guides like Bolton Prep or the official FAA Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement. Reading-focused learners prefer ASA’s Test Prep with Prepware software. If you want maximum question exposure, Ashwick and Atlas Masterguide both deliver thousands of practice items.
Decide between self-study and a structured course
Self-study with a book and free FAA resources is the cheapest path and works well for disciplined learners. Structured online courses from Drone Pilot Ground School or Pilot Institute cost more but add video lessons, weekly webinars, and instructor support. Reddit threads consistently show both paths produce first-time passes when you commit 15 to 25 hours of study.
Check pass guarantees and refund policies
Top-tier online courses offer a money-back guarantee if you fail the exam after completing their curriculum. Some even refund the $175 PSI testing fee. Books rarely include this kind of guarantee, so choose your prep book based on curriculum quality and reviews rather than refund promises.
Plan for the FAA test fee and IACRA registration
The Part 107 exam costs $175 paid to PSI, plus a $5 registration in the IACRA system. Budget for these fees separately from your study materials. The exam contains 60 multiple-choice questions, requires a 70% to pass, and takes about 2.5 hours including check-in time.
Consider free and veterans resources
The FAA provides a free study guide (FAA-G-8082-22) and a free practice test on its website. Veterans can access free Part 107 training through programs like Vets To Drones. These free resources can supplement or replace paid courses if you are on a tight budget.
Factor in real-world career applications
Passing Part 107 is just the start. Most commercial drone work requires additional skills like photo editing, mapping software (Pix4D, DroneDeploy), or business development. If you plan to launch a drone services business, choose a study guide or course that mentions operational topics beyond the FAA exam.
Review study time estimates realistically
Most first-time test takers report 15 to 30 hours of total study over 2 to 4 weeks. If your exam is less than a week away, prioritize the QuickStudy laminated guide and FAA Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement for rapid recall. With more time, add ASA Test Prep or Pilot Institute for deeper understanding.
If you are upgrading your gear after certification, our camera drones under $500 guide covers popular models for commercial pilots just starting out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Part 107 course is the best?
The best Part 107 course depends on your learning style, but the top options are Drone Pilot Ground School for video lessons with a 99%+ pass rate, Pilot Institute for 15+ hours of expert video content, and ASA’s Remote Pilot Test Prep book if you prefer self-study with Prepware practice software.
How much does it cost to get FAA Part 107 drone certification?
Total Part 107 certification costs include a $175 PSI exam fee, a $5 IACRA registration fee, and study materials ranging from free FAA resources up to about $300 for premium online courses. Budget books and laminated references start around $11, while full online courses with pass guarantees typically run $159 to $299.
Is the FAA Part 107 test difficult to pass?
The Part 107 test is moderate difficulty for prepared students. The 60-question multiple-choice exam covers airspace, weather, regulations, and operations, and requires a 70% score to pass. Most students who complete a structured prep course or study 15 to 25 hours pass on their first attempt, with community-reported scores between 85% and 100%.
How long does it take to get FAA Part 107 certification?
Most students complete Part 107 certification within 2 to 4 weeks of part-time study. Study time averages 15 to 30 hours, and the FAA processes your certificate within 7 to 10 business days after you pass the exam and submit IACRA paperwork. Some accelerated learners finish in as little as 4 days of focused study.
Final Verdict on the Best FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot Certification Courses
The best FAA Part 107 drone pilot certification courses combine official content, realistic practice questions, and a study format that matches how you learn. Our top pick is the FAA Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement because every test taker needs it, but pairing it with ASA Remote Pilot Test Prep or a structured online course from Drone Pilot Ground School gives you the highest chance of passing on your first try.
Pick the resource that fits your timeline and budget, commit 15 to 30 hours of study over the next 2 to 4 weeks, and you will join the ranks of certified remote pilots flying commercially across the United States in 2026.