12 February 2026
Southern California weather lately has been unpredictable. Sunshine in the morning and clouds rolling in by afternoon. That is a good reminder of something else that tends to sneak up on drone pilots the same way: your Part 107 currency status.
When’s the last time you checked your current status?
You see, we must understand that the FAA does not remind you to renew your Part 107. There is no email, no letter, and no expiration notice like the DMV. Many responsible pilots end up grounded—not because they intended to break rules but simply because they forgot.
First, understand what renewal actually means.
You do not retake the full Part 107 knowledge test anymore. Renewal is free, online, open book, and done from home.
You complete the FAA recurrent training course:
Official course name: Part 107 Small UAS Recurrent.
Platform: FAASafety.gov.
Required frequency: Every 24 calendar months.
After completion, you receive a recurrent training certificate. That becomes your proof of current certification. You will not receive a new plastic certificate. Your validity comes from the training completion.
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Step by Step: Renew Your Part 107 in 2026
Step 1: Go to FAASafety.gov. Bookmark it. You will come back repeatedly throughout your drone career.
Step 2: Log In Using Your FAA or IACRA email. Use the same email tied to your FAA records. It keeps everything organized on the backend.
Step 3: Find the Correct Course. Search for Part 107 Small UAS Recurrent. Make sure it says recurrent. This matters.
Step 4: Complete the Training. You will review updated FAA rules, airspace reminders, and operational safety guidance. The course is a refresher and not designed to trick you. Take your time because the material applies directly to real world flying.
Step 5: Pass the Final Assessment. After completion download the certificate immediately. Back it up, email it to yourself, and store it in cloud storage. Treat it like your business license because it effectively is.
Step 6: Carry It When Flying Commercially. You must have your Remote Pilot Certificate, recurrent training certificate, and valid photo ID. Digital copies are acceptable as long as you can present them when requested.
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What If Your Part 107 Already Expired?
There is no penalty for letting it lapse. However you cannot legally perform commercial operations until you complete the recurrent training. That means no client work and no paid flights. The moment you finish the course you are current again. It is not punitive but it can cost opportunities.
Renew On Time vs Let It Lapse
Renewing on time keeps you legally protected, prevents interruptions in work, keeps you ready for opportunities, maintains professional discipline, and keeps you updated on FAA changes.
Letting it lapse can unintentionally ground you, risk illegal operations without realizing it, cost contracts or clients, and add stress to something simple.
Most pilots do not lapse because they do not care. They lapse because life gets busy.
The FAA Assumes Professionalism
Unlike the DMV, the FAA expects you to track your own currency, know your responsibilities, and take ownership of certification.
Set a calendar reminder for 24 months from completion. Treat it like insurance or taxes. If flying drones has become a business for you commercially, then the least you and I can do is stay current.
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For Hobbyists This Might Be Your Year
If you have been flying recreationally and have not taken the Part 107 yet you are closer than you think. Many pilots avoid it because they dislike tests, but once you apply yourself, the knowledge improves safety and opportunities start appearing. I personally put off taking my part 107 because of doubt and a lack of discipline. But, once I made up my mind, I focused for one month to study and prepare, and that was all I needed to take my final exam the following month and passing after my first time. You can do this!
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A Final Thought for 2026
With regulatory changes and equipment uncertainty one principle matters more than ever. Take care of your equipment and work with what you have. Upgrade if possible and maintain if not. The pilots who stay current legally and operationally are the ones still flying when opportunities come.
If you have read this far consider it your sign. Go to FAASafety.gov and complete your recurrent training. It is free, simple, and keeps you flying.
