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.
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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