Do You Need a Drone Pilot License for Real Estate Photography?

The short answer is: Yes, you generally need a Remote Pilot Certificate issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to legally operate a drone for commercial purposes, including real estate photography. Failure to comply can result in hefty fines, with the realtor potentially facing a $10,000 fine and the drone operator a $1,000 fine.

FAA Part 107 Requirements for Commercial Drone Operations

To obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate (also known as FAA Part 107) for commercial drone operations, you must meet the following criteria:

Successfully Pass the FAA Part 107 Exam: The exam covers a wide range of topics including airspace classification, weather conditions, and drone operation regulations. Minimum Age of 16: This ensures that the operator has the necessary cognitive and physical capabilities. Ability to Read, Speak, Write, and Understand English: Basic language skills are essential for understanding the educational material and test. Physical and Mental Fitness: Maintaining a healthy condition that allows safe operation of a drone.

Additional Regulatory Considerations

While the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is the primary requirement, it is crucial to also comply with local and state regulations regarding drone use. These regulations can vary significantly and may include restrictions on altitude, flight areas, and the number of drones in the airspace.

Clarifying the Differences: FAA Part 107 vs. Pilots License

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate: This certificate is specifically for operating unmanned aerial systems (UAS) or drones for commercial purposes. It is not the same as a pilot license for manned aircraft, which falls under FAA Part 61.

Commercial Pilot Certificate (Part 61): This license is required for individuals who wish to fly planes or helicopters as a pilot, and it includes additional training and certification beyond the FAA Part 107 for UAS operations.

Practical Implications and Real-World Experiences

Note that in some areas, you may not need a license for recreational drone operations. However, for any commercial work, the FAA Part 107 certificate is mandatory. Even if you are performing work for free as an advertisement (e.g., as “exposure”), the FAA Part 107 certificate is still required.

A common scenario involves government employees who use drones for their work. They must be certified to operate them legally. This also applies to companies using drones for business purposes, such as a pipeline company's use of a drone for video capture at a family gathering.

Real-Estate Photography Special Attention

Real estate photography has drawn special attention from the FAA. According to some USDA articles, if the drone footage appears on platforms like Zillow, the realtor and the drone operator could be facing legal consequences. Therefore, it is important to ensure that all commercial work, including real estate photography, is done with the appropriate certification.

Personal Experience and Compliance Stories

One of the most compelling stories comes from a young family member who used a drone gifted by his company for a family gathering. He quickly learned that proper certification was required to use the drone for work. By studying intensively and passing the certification test, he avoided potential legal trouble.

Law enforcement, property managers, and even older individuals, like 85-year-old AMA members, have all encountered situations where proper certification became essential. Demonstrating proper registration, certification, and membership in organizations like the AMA can defuse tense situations and lead to positive outcomes.

Conclusion

While the requirements for a drone pilot license can seem daunting, compliance with these rules is necessary to avoid fines and legal issues. Additionally, the certification can also lead to business opportunities and opens doors in the real estate industry. Always ensure you have the right certification before engaging in any commercial drone operations, including real estate photography.