FAA Exam Test Scores
Drone Industry

FAA 2025 Part 107 Test Scores Are In — Here’s What Drone Pilots Should Know

The Federal Aviation Administration has released its 2025 Airman Knowledge Test data, including results for the Part 107 exam.

The numbers:

  • Average score: just over 79%
  • Pass rate: about 83%
  • Passing score: 70%

Most candidates are passing—but not by a wide margin.

What the 2025 Data Shows

According to analysis from The Drone Girl, 2025 reflects the lowest average Part 107 scores since the exam was introduced.

In practical terms:

  • The average score is only about 9 points above passing
  • A large portion of test-takers are close to the minimum
  • There’s limited room for error

This points to a gap between getting certified and fully understanding the material.

Why Scores Are Lower

At DARTdrones, we train pilots at all levels. These patterns line up with what we see in training:

1. Memorization over understanding

Some candidates rely on recognizing questions instead of learning the concepts behind them.

When questions are phrased differently, it becomes harder to answer correctly.

2. Unstructured study approaches

Many candidates prepare using a mix of videos, articles, and practice questions from different sources.

That approach can work, but it often leads to gaps.

For example:

  • Spending more time on familiar topics and skipping harder ones
  • Not realizing certain areas (like airspace or weather) are weighted heavily on the exam
  • Understanding individual questions, but not how concepts connect

Without a clear structure, it’s easy to feel prepared while still missing key pieces.

3. Flight experience doesn’t cover test material

Flying skills don’t automatically translate to test readiness.

The exam focuses on:

  • Airspace rules
  • Weather interpretation
  • FAA regulations

These areas require dedicated study.

4. Core topics continue to be challenging

The most difficult sections tend to be:

  • Airspace classification and authorization
  • Sectional charts
  • Weather reports (METARs and TAFs)
  • Regulations

These are also the areas pilots rely on in real-world operations.

Why Barely Passing Can Be a Problem

A passing score meets the requirement, but it doesn’t always reflect strong understanding.

Lower margins often mean:

  • Less confidence in decision-making
  • Slower interpretation of airspace and weather
  • Greater reliance on double-checking basic information

For commercial operations, stronger fundamentals make a difference.

What This Means for Pilots

The 2025 data highlights a simple point: Preparation quality shows up in the score.

Pilots who build a solid understanding tend to:

  • Score higher
  • Retain information longer
  • Apply it more effectively in the field

How to Prepare for the Part 107 Test

A structured approach helps close knowledge gaps and improve retention.

At DARTdrones, Part 107 training is built to:

  • Explain concepts clearly—not just present answers
  • Cover all tested topics in a logical sequence
  • Reinforce both exam knowledge and real-world use

Prepare with Confidence

If you’re planning to take the Part 107 exam, a focused study approach can improve both your score and your understanding.

Explore DARTdrones’ Part 107 Test Prep to get fully prepared.

Frequently Asked Questions

What score do you need to pass the Part 107 test?

You need 70% to pass, which is 42 out of 60 questions.

What is the average Part 107 test score?

Recent FAA data shows an average of about 79%.

How difficult is the Part 107 test?

Most candidates pass, but the relatively low average score suggests many find it challenging.

What topics are covered on the Part 107 exam?

  • Airspace classification
  • Weather
  • Sectional charts
  • FAA regulations
  • Safe drone operations

Free resources you might be interested in

Image of man happy with his drone

Guide to How to Make Money With a Drone: Starting a Drone Business

This guide will teach you all of the essential steps, tips, and information for starting a drone business under Part 107 FAA drone rules.

E-books and Guides

Drone Training System Step One Free

Get free access to Step 1 of our simple & custom plan.

Custom Solutions
Not sure what drone training school is best for your business?

Part 107 Online Test Prep Course Preview

A free preview of the FAA’s most challenging exam questions and the DARTdrones Part 107 Online Test Prep Course.

Course Preview
As seen on ABC's "Shark Tank"

WHY DARTDRONES? We have a proven track record for training pilots in dozens of industries.

22 QUALIFIED
INSTRUCTORS

Our instructors have manned aviation experience flying airplanes and helicopters and have gained the highest drone piloting recognitions in the industry. Many own successful UAS businesses themselves.

10+ CITIES
NATIONWIDE

As featured on ABC's Shark Tank, we are the nation's leading drone training company with an extensive network of alumni and partners throughout the country.

150+ HOURS OF
MATERIAL

Created and refined by UAS training experts, our curriculum is the best in the industry and has been tried and tested by clients in dozens of industries.

25K+ PILOTS
TRAINED

With a community of over 65,000 drone enthusiasts across the US and internationally, DARTdrones is at the forefront of UAS technology.