Searching for the best drone schools to master the FAA Part 107 certificate test, enhance your aerial photography skills, or delve into other drone-related applications? You’ve arrived at the perfect destination.
With extensive experience in various drone training programs, I’ve navigated through a mix of highly beneficial and underwhelming courses. This guide presents the best drone schools, selected for their exceptional quality and trusted reputation in the drone education sector.
If you’re looking for the best drone school to help you pass the FAA Part 107 test and earn your FAA Remote Pilot Certificate, Drone Pilot Ground School stands out as the top choice. Its Part 107 Exam Prep is highly regarded for its extensive preparation materials, an impressive pass rate, and a risk-free refund guarantee. As a Drone Last reader, you enjoy an instant $100 discount when you use the code DRONELAST at checkout.
My recommendation is based not on a partnership, but on my personal experience – I took the course myself and genuinely believe it’s the best on the market. For more detailed reasons behind this recommendation, you can jump to our complete review below.
For those seeking a free option, the best course is the Cert Prep FAA 107 Commercial Drone License from LinkedIn Learning.
Ready for more? Let’s embark on this learning adventure through the best online drone schools and courses!
Quick Tips to Take Courses for Free
Consider registering for a free account on Skillshare and LinkedIn Learning. These platforms grant you access to all their courses at no cost for a duration of 30 days. Simply enter keywords like “drone” or “aerial” in the search bar, and a plethora of professional courses will emerge.
Both platforms provide exceptional training that’s definitely worth your while. You won’t have to endure instructors pushing a multitude of byproducts or subject yourself to their relentless self-promotion.
Plan your time to coincide with a vacation and make the most of your trial period. This way, you can benefit from premium courses without incurring any costs!
Here are a few free courses I highly recommend:
- Cert Prep FAA 107 Commercial Drone License (from LinkedIn Learning)
- Learning Aerial Photography with Drones (from LinkedIn Learning)
- Working Professionally with Your Drone (from LinkedIn Learning)
- Extraordinary Drone Shots and How to Get Them (from LinkedIn Learning)
- Introduction to Aerial Videography: Creative Direction for Drone Filming (from Skillshare)
- Advanced Aerial Videography: Storytelling with Subjects (from Skillshare)
How to Use This Best Online Drone Schools Guide?
- Each course has been grouped based on the skillset it targets, enabling you to head directly to the skill you wish to acquire.
- Every recommended course comes with a brief overview that includes the program name, its cost, duration, unique benefits, and a descriptive summary.
- Many of these programs provide an introductory free session, affording you an opportunity to sample the course content. I strongly encourage you to take advantage of this feature before committing to the full payment.
- These trial sessions offer valuable insight into the structure of the classes and the teaching style of the instructors. This helps you assess if a particular course aligns with your learning preferences.
Table of Contents
#1 Introductory Courses
Just got your hands on a new drone and are unsure of how to pilot it smoothly? Struggling with mastering basic maneuvers? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive guide on How to Fly a Drone.
One highly accessible and handy platform for honing these essential skills is YouTube!
Amidst a sea of recommendations, you might feel compelled to shell out hundreds of dollars on training merely to grasp the basics. But you don’t necessarily need to go down that path.
If you’ve allocated a budget for training, consider investing in the advanced skills I’ve listed further in this guide.
Navigating the wealth of information on YouTube can be challenging. Here’s a pro tip: search using your drone model. This will generate a plethora of beginner-friendly videos crafted specifically for your model. They actually serve as some of the best online drone schools.
For those with a DJI or Parrot drone, their official YouTube channels offer a series of detailed tutorials:
#2 Drone License Preparation Courses
It’s important to register your drone and secure a drone license if you’re planning to fly for non-recreational purposes. You can find more details about obtaining the FAA Remote Pilot Certificate to fly under Part 107 here.
Drone license preparation courses often offer unlimited lifetime access. At first, you might question the need for such longevity, especially after successfully passing the exam. However, these courses serve more functions than you might initially think.
What’s the Point of Lifetime Access to the Prep Course?
Under the new FAA Part 107 rules that came into effect in March 2021, certified Remote Pilots no longer need to sit for an in-person test every two years to keep their certificates current. Instead, a free online “refresher training” course provided by the FAA suffices.
Even with these changes, lifetime access to a prep course remains beneficial. Firstly, it provides the opportunity to revisit the material if you don’t pass the test on your first attempt (Although some courses guarantee a refund if you fail on the first attempt). Secondly, it can serve as a handy resource for periodically refreshing your knowledge. Given that these courses are regularly updated, they reflect the most recent changes in drone flying regulations and advancements in technology.
Despite the elimination of the two-year recertification exam, the FAA still encourages continued learning and staying updated with the latest developments in drone technology and aviation regulations. Therefore, having lifetime access to updated course material remains an invaluable resource for drone pilots. Most drone schools continue to offer courses specifically designed to keep your knowledge up-to-date.
Drone Pilot Ground School
Course fee: $299 ($100 off with our discount code: DRONELAST)
Duration: 15 to 20 hours
Course access: Unlimited lifetime access
Benefits: Full refund of the cost fee plus the exam fee ($175) if you fail on the first attempt.
When considering an FAA Part 107 Exam Preparation course, the Drone Pilot Ground School is one of the most popular offerings in the market. It is an excellent resource for those pursuing an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate. With over 70 video lessons and a multitude of mock tests mimicking the real exam, the course is comprehensive and conducive to learning. The school boasts an impressive success rate, with more than 99% of students reportedly passing on their first attempt.
The course’s unique selling points include a 12-page cram sheet that effectively consolidates essential exam information. In addition, the weekly live Zoom webinars allow students unlimited opportunities to clarify doubts and gain additional insights. The school has also garnered a reputation for its outstanding and responsive customer service.
While primarily designed for the Part 107 exam, this course offers more. It includes flight skills training, which, although not mandatory for the certificate, is a valuable add-on for beginners preparing for real drone operations. Upon completion, students earn a diploma to validate their skill set. Furthermore, membership in the UAV Coach Community presents a networking opportunity, and staying abreast with industry updates and trends.
As a reader of Drone Last, you can enjoy a $100 discount for all courses when you check out using our discount code DRONELAST, maximizing your savings.
You can read more information about the course here.
Drone Pilot Skill Builder
Course fee: $119
Course access: Unlimited lifetime access
Benefits: 30-day refund guarantee if you don’t like the course.
This course is designed primarily for new drone pilots and those with a Part 107 certificate but limited flight experience. What makes this course stand out is that it fills the gap between certification and practical experience.
Having taken the entire course, I was impressed by its practical approach and comprehensive curriculum. The course’s practical exercises can significantly enhance your drone piloting skills, provide techniques for capturing breathtaking drone footage, and teach troubleshooting & emergency procedures. Still, the real value depends on the user’s confidence and previous experience with drone flying.
If you’re already comfortable flying your drone, this course may not offer new insights. But if you’re new to the drone world or hold a Part 107 certification with little flight experience, the Drone Pilot Skill Builder could prove an invaluable resource.
The course covers an array of important topics and provides a practical approach to drone flying. It includes 16 engaging video lectures with key takeaways, real-world assignments, and resources for further learning. It encompasses everything from basic FAA drone rules and registration, drone flight training, pre-flight checklist & planning, to applying for FAA airspace authorization. The course is structured to address the most common queries that UAV Coach has received over the years from thousands of their trained pilots.
The course is relatively affordable considering the extensive curriculum and potential benefits. However, remember that the true value of any course ultimately depends on your specific needs and the effort you’re willing to put into learning.
DARTdrones
Course fee: $150 to $670
Duration: 10 to 20 hours
Course access: Unlimited lifetime access
Benefits: Refund of exam fee if you fail on the first attempt.
DARTdrones is a well-established player in the drone industry. Their FAA Part 107 Test Prep Course has an impressive track record, helping over 9,000 students pass the exam. The success rate of their students stands at an incredible 99%, highlighting the effectiveness of their training program.
The course offers a comprehensive range of resources designed to facilitate success. Students can access over 300 practice test questions, a detailed 50-page study guide, and direct communication with their chief pilot for any queries or concerns.
The mid-tier package, priced at $375, includes 8 hours of interactive sessions led by an expert pilot. Students also have the opportunity to practice real test questions with a manned pilot. However, it’s important to note that this is a fully virtual course, which means there is no hands-on flight training with an instructor.
Regarding their refund policy, while full reimbursements are not provided, students who do not pass the exam on their first attempt will have their exam fees returned. However, the course fee itself is non-refundable. It’s worth mentioning that the entry-level course, competitively priced at $200 (now $150 with the coupon code listed on its website), offers significant value for individuals seeking certification, as long as they are committed to diligently completing the self-paced course.
Overall, DARTdrones has established itself as a reliable and effective provider of FAA Part 107 exam training. Their high pass rate, extensive resources, and reasonable pricing make them a solid choice for individuals looking to become certified drone pilots.
Pilot Institute
Course fee: $249 (occasionally reduced to $159)
Duration: 15 hours
Course access: Unlimited lifetime access
Benefits: Full refund of tuition and exam fees if you fail on the first attempt.
Pilot Institute’s Part 107 Commercial Drone License Course has a proven track record of success, with a 99% pass rate and over 70,000 students having signed up for the course.
One of the biggest selling points of this course is its affordability. For a reasonable price, you’ll get access to 15 hours of instruction in short, easy-to-watch videos, over 300 practice questions, and a 14-page illustrated cheat sheet. Additionally, students are guaranteed to pass the test or they will get back the $175 exam fee plus a full refund of the course.
This course also comes with a free Drone Maneuvers Mastery course that will teach you how to master your drone flying skills with over 50 challenging maneuvers. This is a valuable addition to the course that will not only help you pass the FAA Part 107 exam but also improve your drone flying skills.
This course is a great option for beginners who want to pass the FAA exam on a budget. With its high success rate, comprehensive curriculum, and free Drone Maneuvers Mastery course, this program is an excellent investment in your future as a certified drone pilot.
Drone Launch Academy
Course fee: $199
Duration: 15 hours
Course access: Unlimited lifetime access
Benefits: Full refund of tuition and exam fees if you fail on the first attempt, provided you have passed an internal course exam.
Drone Launch Academy offers a cost-effective solution for those pursuing the FAA Remote Pilot Exam. While the course may be less comprehensive than some alternatives, it is not to be underestimated, boasting a 99% pass rate and having assisted over 20,000 students to date.
Included in the course are over 300 practice questions and an extensive E-Book study guide of more than 75 pages. However, it’s worth noting some inaccuracies in the comparison graphic presented on their website, which positions their course against competitors’. The academy’s curriculum also lacks the elaborate interactive features found in some other courses.
Nevertheless, Drone Launch Academy shines with its competitive pricing and commendable pass rate. It proves to be an optimal choice for budget-conscious individuals seeking to pass the FAA Remote Pilot Exam.
Drone U
Course see: $57 per month / $527 per year
Duration: 11 to 20 hours
Course access: Unlimited access in valid time
Benefits: Access to a variety of drone courses with a single payment.
For those finding courses priced over $100 a tad high, Drone U could be a worthwhile alternative, with their monthly subscription model. Starting at just $57 per month, you can gain unlimited access to all their offerings. This period should suffice for brisk preparation for the drone license test.
Drone U stands apart from other schools discussed in this guide with its unique model. Offering a broad spectrum of both online and in-person training programs, it is a comprehensive drone school. With a single membership, you not only gain access to their license prep course but also a wide array of other courses including drone mapping, 3D modeling, search and rescue, and FPV racing. It’s an opportunity to swiftly navigate through the exam prep course on a budget, whilst also exploring a host of other fascinating areas.
However, it’s worth noting that Drone U lacks some appealing features, such as a pass guarantee or a refund policy if a student doesn’t pass. Additionally, they don’t offer lifetime access to their courses. Despite this, the flexibility and variety they offer could make Drone U an intriguing choice for many.
#3 Aerial Photography Courses
DARTdrones – Aerial Photography and Videography Online Course
Course fee: $150
Duration: 85 minutes
Course access: Unlimited lifetime access
Benefits: Participants receive a $50 credit toward any other DARTdrones course.
This course has exceeded my expectations. The course stands true to its promise of enabling you to create visually stunning aerial photos and videos.
The curriculum is impressively comprehensive, covering everything from the basic understanding of aerial imaging to the most intricate details of camera modes, aerial shots, post-production basics, and editing tools. It dives into the nitty-gritty of equipment options, lens options, gimbal balancing, drone shots, and camera angles, providing a well-rounded knowledge base for anyone who wishes to venture into the world of drone photography and videography.
One of the highlights of this course is its relevance to both amateur and seasoned drone pilots. Beginners will find the foundational knowledge extremely useful while the professionals can benefit from expert tips and advanced classes, allowing them to elevate their existing skills.
What particularly caught my attention was the segment on commercial operations and the prospects of making more money with improved photo and video quality. For serious drone flyers contemplating starting their own drone photography and videography business, this course offers a wealth of knowledge. It also gives access to an extensive alumni network, potentially opening doors to various professional opportunities.
However, the course does come with a hefty price tag of $150. While it may seem expensive at first glance, the depth and breadth of the knowledge it imparts, along with the $50 credit towards any other DARTdrones class, make it worthwhile for those very serious about this field.
LinkedIn Learning – Learning Aerial Photography with Drones
Course fee: $39.99 (1-month free trial)
Duration: 4 hours
Course access: Unlimited access in valid time
Benefits: LinkedIn Learning offers users a 1-month free trial. So you can complete the course for free.
This course is genuinely impressive. Guided by the expertise of Richard Harrington and Francis Torres, it provides a comprehensive insight into using a camera drone for capturing breathtaking aerial photos and dramatic panoramas.
Throughout the course, Harrington and Torres delve into various aspects of aerial photography. They meticulously cover photo shoots for single images and multi-image panoramas. The course also enlightens us on critical pre-flight best practices, along with effective location scouting techniques and strategic shooting tactics – all crucial components for creating standout aerial imagery.
A standout feature of this course is its emphasis on post-production techniques. Half of the course is dedicated to teaching us the ins and outs of touching up aerial images using industry-standard tools such as Lightroom, Photoshop, and PTGui. This comprehensive approach ensures a thorough understanding of the entire process of aerial photography – from take-off to final image editing.
This is a masterclass in using drone technology for capturing awe-inspiring visuals from an entirely new perspective. Whether you’re a professional photographer or an avid hobbyist, this course is certain to elevate your skills and understanding of aerial photography.
Udemy – Drone Photography | Shooting Professional Photos With Any Drone
Course fee: $74.99
Duration: 2 hours
Course access: Unlimited lifetime access
Benefits: 30-day refund guarantee if you don’t like the course.
It’s a comprehensive and insightful guide that any drone enthusiast—amateur or professional—should consider. This course is meticulously designed to equip learners with the necessary skills for professional aerial photography, making it an ideal choice for those aiming to take on professional jobs or provide drone services to clients.
The instructor, Dale McManus, boasts an impressive pedigree with a Bachelor’s Degree in Film, 8 years of experience in cinematography and photography, and 4-5 years in professional drone piloting. His adept teaching style, coupled with his extensive expertise, provides an invaluable learning experience.
The course content is broad yet detailed, covering a variety of essential aspects of drone photography. From shot composition to optimizing drone camera settings, learners will gain a hands-on understanding of the nuances involved in capturing the best drone photos.
A particular highlight is a module on night photography, an area often overlooked in similar courses. This section offers learners the chance to explore the magic of capturing stunning nocturnal scenes from a bird’s eye view.
Beyond technical skills, the course is designed to serve various interests. Whether you’re a traveler looking to document your adventures from unique perspectives, a social media enthusiast aiming to enhance your content, a budding professional eyeing a career in drone photography, or even someone interested in architectural or real estate photography, this course caters to all.
LinkedIn Learning – Extraordinary Drone Shots and How to Get Them
Course fee: $29.99
Duration: 1 hour
Course access: Unlimited access in valid time
Benefits: LinkedIn Learning offers users a 1-month free trial. So you can complete the course for free.
Having completed this course, I find myself impressed and genuinely satisfied. Despite the condensed format, the course succeeded in deeply diving into the techniques needed to capture stunning drone shots, a feature that markedly sets it apart.
Luisa Winters and Francis Torres, the course instructors, masterfully navigated the intricacies of drone photography and videography, striking a commendable balance between theory and practical application. Each lesson was not only a step-by-step guide but also a catalyst for creativity, inspiring us to take our own exceptional aerial shots.
While this course may not match the comprehensive breadth of other aerial photography courses I’ve encountered, it excels in its specialized concentration on obtaining those truly extraordinary drone shots.
In addition to offering practical skills, the course also provides an insightful introduction to the complex legalities of flight authorizations, a useful feature that is often overlooked in similar courses. The inclusion of strategies for content sales – both for prospective clients and stock footage – is another valuable component, making it a holistic guide for anyone aiming to make a mark in the drone photography industry.
This course not only teaches you about drone photography but also helps you stand out in the crowded marketplace. It’s a gem in the field that is not easily found.
#4 Aerial Videography Courses
Skillshare – Introduction to Aerial Videography: Creative Direction for Drone Filming
Course fee: $168 per year (30-day free trial)
Duration: 45 minutes
Course access: Unlimited access in valid time
Benefits: Skillshare offers a 30-day free trial, so you can take the course for free.
This 45-minute on-site course covers equipment, camera manoeuvres, shooting practices, and more. At the end of the course, you’ll shoot and edit your own 30-second reel of your hometown as an exercise.
Udemy – Drones: How to Tell Aerial Stories
Course fee: $89.99
Duration: 4 hours
Course access: Unlimited lifetime access
Benefits: 30-day refund guarantee if you don’t like the course.
You can use your drone to take beautiful pictures of the sky. You can also use it to tell exciting stories that have a beginning and an end.
This course is all about telling a story. If you are tired of seeing landscapes and more landscapes, it is time to learn what a story is. This course pioneers the application of fiction only to drone footage.
You will learn the components of a drone and its camera. You will also learn the settings to achieve different results.
A closed Facebook group is available for students to post their footage. They will receive instant feedback from peers and the instructor.
#5 Drone Business Courses
DARTdrones – Launching a Drone Business Under Part 107
Course fee: $30
Course access: Unlimited lifetime access
Benefits: Participants receive a $50 credit toward any other DARTdrones course.
The course will teach you everything you need to know to start your UAS / drone service business. That includes the business laws around UAS businesses, how to properly insure your business, and how to market your UAS business.
These seminars are ideal for any drone operator considering making money. They equip you to handle the business side of operating a drone service business.
This course does not teach you any drone skills at all. This is completely business-oriented. If you are seriously thinking about starting a drone company, this is exactly what you need.
Drone Launch Academy – Aerial Video A to Z
Course fee: $397
Duration: 3 hours
Course access: Unlimited lifetime access
Benefits: The instructor updates the course frequently. You will enjoy new content if you choose a lifetime subscription.
One of the best courses on the market. It teaches basic to advanced drone videography skills.
This course stands out. It not only teaches on location and post-production that many other courses do. It also teaches the practical way to craft engaging footage that can be sold easily in the market.
It also includes an entire section on teaching you how to start a successful drone business.
Yet, the price is definitely not friendly. If you are on a budget, you can check out the instructor’s YouTube channel where you can get free drone training.
While he doesn’t update the channel frequently, the contents he creates stand out. You’ll notice the difference right away. With each video, he cuts to the core of the skills and doesn’t give you anything irrelevant. The explanation is short and to the point.
Here’s the one that shows you the fastest way to make money with Mavic in 2021:
Drone U – Business Courses
Course fee: $57 per month / $527 per year
Course access: Unlimited access in valid time
Benefits: Access to a variety of drone courses with a single payment.
Another comprehensive program for those who want to start a drone business. You get access to a variety of courses that will prepare you to be a drone business owner.
You will get access to webinars, Q&A sessions, expert interviews, and an exclusive community. Not only will the program make you a drone expert, but it will also show you how to turn your skills into a healthy income.
#6 Industry-Specific Training Courses
Udemy – Drones: Step by step to build and fly a racing quadcopter
Course fee: $39.99
Duration: 6.5 hours
Course access: Unlimited lifetime access
Benefits: 30-day refund guarantee if you don’t like the course.
Challenge yourself and put together a racing drone with this course. With a few tools, some bits and pieces you can get at an affordable price, and a lot of patience, you’ll be surprised at what you can construct.
There are 47 easy to follow videos (6.5 hours) with instructions on everything you need to get started.
Drone Universities – Drone GIS/Mapping
Course fee: $1,000
Duration: 8 hours in 1 day
Course access: On-site
Benefits: Graduates will receive a GIS / Mapping Drone Operator Certificate. But they have to attend the Introduction to Drones course too.
You will learn everything you need to collect actionable data.
The course guides you through planning and flying successful operations, programming waypoints, managing proper altitude, and operating specific camera settings.
You will learn what to do with the data once collected. It includes the use of third-party software, NDVI settings, orthomosaics, 3D models, and elevation analysis. By then, you will be knowledgeable and confident when offering your specialized services.
This course is a must for anyone interested in a career in GIS / mapping or a related field such as precision agriculture.
If you are tempted by the ever-growing drone mapping opportunities, make sure to check out our complete guide to drone mapping software and applications!
ABJ Drone Academy – Drone Surveying and 3D Modeling Online Training Course
Course fee: $245
Course access: Unlimited lifetime access
This course will provide you with the knowledge to begin performing drone-based survey work.
Visual images, maps and models are the most common outputs. Drone surveying also includes data captured by infrared and multispectral/hyperspectral cameras.
By using a variety of sensors and acquisition methods, drones can provide useful data for a variety of industries. This course will show you how to do this and more.
Unmanned Vehicle University – Level I Thermography Course for sUAS
Course fee: $1,495
Duration: 4 days
Course access: Live seminar in a classroom setting
The course covers everything an sUAS operator needs to deploy thermal imaging sensors in the field. It also leads to industry-recognized certification.
Unmanned thermal imaging is an area of increasing importance in the energy, infrastructure and communications industries. Thermal imaging drones are used to perform safety and maintenance inspections in places where humans would not normally go.
If you want to make money in thermal imaging for business, this course is a good place to start.
Unmanned Vehicle University – Night & Thermal Infrared Operations Training
Course fee: $3,500
Course access: On-site
Infrared drone operations are necessary for a variety of areas, including safety, search and rescue, equipment inspection, and emergency services.
The program teaches everything you need to know about conducting UAV flights at dusk or in complete darkness without compromising safety.
edX – Drones for Agriculture: Prepare and Design Your Drone (UAV) Mission
Course fee: Free (without certificate) / $165 (with certificate)
Duration: 4 to 8 hours per week, 3 weeks total
Course access: Free version with limited access for 3 weeks; the Paid version with unlimited access.
Dive in and expand your knowledge of drones and drone technology. Learn how to prepare and execute a flight mission with an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and how to use, process and understand the collected drone data for your own applications.
DARTdrones – Emergency Services Drone Training
Course fee: Custom quote
This is a customized program designed to meet the needs of a specific client, whether it be the fire department, SWAT team, police department or ambulance service.
The program covers everything from safety and insurance needs, federal and local regulations about drones, drone purchase and maintenance, and legal advice.
#7 Ground Training
Unmanned Vehicle University – UAV Pilot Training Certificate
Tuition: $3,500
Duration: 16 hours web-based ground school, 10 hours PC-based drone simulator, 2 days hands-on flight training
This program consists of three phases.
The first phase is the theory part and is web-based. It introduces the basics of drone flying. The second phase involves working with a UAV simulation to give you a feel for the real thing.
In the final phase, you will attend a 2-day in-person training program at one of the many flight training centres across the US.
Drone Universities – Introduction to Drones
Tuition: $1,500 to $3,500, depending on take-home drone choice
Duration: 16 hours in 2 days
This beginner course spans 2 days and includes six sessions.
The course is designed to introduce participants to the world of drones and teach them how to fly a DJI Mavic. At the end of the course, you get to take home the drone of your choice. You will also take an FAA ground exam that will prepare you for job placement.
DARTdrones – Wings Program
Tuition: $1,649
Duration: 16 hours of online instruction, 2 days of in-person training
Course access: Unlimited lifetime access to the Part 107 online course
Benefits: Money-back guarantee on the drone license exam.
This training program consists of 3 parts.
In-person training to teach you all the basic flying skills, a Part 107 exam prep course to guarantee you pass the drone license exam, and online micro-courses to teach you how to safely plan and fly your drone in real-world missions.
This comprehensive program is designed for novice pilots to become a safe flyer. They also provide you with a drone to fly.
What to Do Next?
Still haven’t made up your mind yet? Don’t forget to check out Drone Last’s free guide on how to fly a drone!
