Part 107 Recurrent Test: What's Changed & How to Pass

The Part 107 recurrent test that you are picturing no longer exists. The in-person, paid, proctored exam was replaced by a free online recurrent training course, which means that much of the advice online about the FAA Part 107 recurrent knowledge test topics is outdated.

This article provides you with a comprehensive overview of what’s changed, what topics are covered in the online course, and how you can prepare for your drone license renewal.

What Changed: The FAA Retired the In-Person Recurrent Test

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) eliminated the in-person recurrent knowledge test in April 2021 as part of the Operations Over People and Remote ID rulemaking, replacing it with free online recurrent training that is available on the FAA Safety Team site, FAASafety.gov.

The reasoning behind this change was driven by the understanding that knowledge is perishable and rules change over time. Rather than redesigning and offering an updated in-person recurrent knowledge test every time rules and regulations for drone flying changed, the FAA felt that an online refresher was a simpler and more efficient option for students and providers alike. Completing an online refresher course is much easier than taking a trip to an in-person testing center.

In addition to changing the format of the renewal process, the FAA also updated the FAA Part 107 recurrent knowledge test topics to include “operation at night” as a knowledge area. This focus area is tied to flying at night without a waiver after training. Remote pilots who maintain their Remote Pilot Certificate can submit airspace authorization requests to the FAA to operate in controlled airspace at night.

Your Certificate Does Not Expire, but Your Currency Does

Remember, your Remote Pilot Certificate does not expire. One of the most common misconceptions is that the Remote Pilot Certificate becomes invalid after two years, but in reality, it does not have an expiration date. What actually expires is your aeronautical knowledge recency. To continue exercising the privileges of your certificate, you must complete the required recurrent training every 24 calendar months. This helps ensure you stay up to date on the knowledge needed to operate your drone safely and legally.

According to 14 CFR 107.65, drone pilots must have passed the initial FAA Part 107 exam or completed recurrent training within the previous 24 calendar months.

However, if your currency lapses, there is no penalty and no requirement that you retake the initial test. All you have to do is complete the free online recurrent training course, and your currency is immediately restored.

Which Recurrent Course You Take: ALC-677 vs. ALC-515

There are two free online recurrent training courses available to help you maintain your Part 107 currency: ALC-677 and ALC-515. Both are available through the FAA Safety Team website, FAASafety.gov.

Here’s how to choose the right one for you:

ALC-677: This course is designed for remote pilots who do not qualify for the Part 61 recurrent course. If you hold a Remote Pilot Certificate, you can take this course regardless of whether your currency is current or has lapsed.
ALC-515: This course is designed for remote pilots who also hold a Part 61 pilot certificate and have a current flight review under 14 CFR § 61.56. If you meet those requirements, you can take this course to maintain your Part 107 currency.

Every Topic the Recurrent Training Covers

Per 14 CFR 107.73, the recurrent training covers the same FAA Part 107 recurrent knowledge test topics:

Regulations related to small, unmanned aircraft system rating privileges, limitations, and flight operations
Airspace classification, including operating requirements and flight restrictions that impact small, unmanned aircraft operations
Weather and the impact that weather patterns can have on small, unmanned aircraft performance
Unloading of small, unmanned aircraft
Emergency procedures
Effective crew resource management (CRM)
Radio communication procedures
Determining the performance of small, unmanned aircraft
Physiological effects of drugs and alcohol
Aeronautical decision-making and judgment
Airport operations
Maintenance and preflight inspection procedures
Operation at night

Airspace and sectional chart reading may trip up drone pilots who have not reviewed since their initial test. For instance, if you last took your Part 107 renewal test in 2025, you may want to consider enrolling in a refresher course to ensure your knowledge is up to date, and you can successfully complete the renewal training online. A Part 107 course is not mandatory, but completing one in advance of your training lets you solidify your knowledge base and move forward with confidence.

How to Complete Your Part 107 Renewal Step by Step

The drone certificate renewal process is straightforward, but it’s important to know what steps to take to maintain your currency. All Part 107 recurrent training is completed online at FAASafety.gov and takes about two hours total to complete.

Here’s a step-by-step look at how to complete your training:

Visit FAASafety.gov, and create or log into the FAASTeam account.
Enroll in ALC-677 or ALC-515.
Work through all the modules.
Complete the open-material end-of-course knowledge check. This has unlimited retakes, so it’s okay if you make a mistake.
Download and securely store the completion certificate.

Remember, the completion certificate serves as your proof of currency. It resets the 24-month clock from the finish date. So, if you completed your last Part 107 renewal test in 2025, your drone license will need to be renewed during the same month in 2027.

How to Prepare and Pass With Confidence

The Part 107 recurrent test may be a free, online training program with unlimited retakes, but readiness is still important. Avoid clicking through the modules and guessing just because the check is open-material. The purpose of the training is to reinforce safe, legal flying practices throughout the 24-month currency period, and you really should understand the most current regulations, guidelines, and recommendations.

Drone regulations, airspace restrictions, and Remote ID rules continue to evolve over time, so a real refresh matters. MzeroA’s Remote Pilot Course provides a structured overview of every FAA knowledge area, letting you familiarize yourself with the material that will be covered during the Part 107 recurrent training. During this course, you will benefit from scenario-based instruction, making it a strong preparation resource.

Keep in mind, this Part 107 Remote Pilot Course is not a replacement for the free FAA training, but rather, a valuable tool that you can use to feel ready and self-assured before completing the training program online. Beyond keeping your knowledge current right now, this course also gives you lifetime access to study for future renewals.

Official renewal is always free and only on FAASafety.gov. Avoid the paid “renewal” sites that claim they will keep your drone license current. These are not FAA-affiliated.

Refresh Your Knowledge and Prepare for Success With MzeroA Online Ground School

Drone license renewal is now available online for free, letting you meet the Part 107 recurrent test requirements on your own schedule. This course keeps you sharp with field-relevant rules, allowing you to fly confidently as a remote pilot.

Don’t let your drone license currency lapse. Set a calendar reminder at least a few weeks before the 24-month deadline to ensure you don’t miss it! MzeroA’s Remote Pilot Course is the ideal refresher before each renewal cycle, providing you with a complete understanding of airspace, regulations, and safety procedures through hands-on, scenario-based training. This program helps you build the practical skills needed for real-world drone operations.

Enroll in the Remote Pilot – Part 107 Course today.