FAA Part 137 Compliance Checklist

Before You Start

• Decide your operating entity (LLC, sole proprietor) — your Part 137 certificate follows the entity
• Confirm your drone's takeoff weight — over 55 lbs requires a 44807 exemption before the 137
• Budget 3–6 months for the full process; the 44807 alone typically takes 8–10 weeks

Step 1 — Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

• Create an IACRA account (iacra.faa.gov)
• Set up a PSI testing account and schedule the Part 107 knowledge test
• Pass the test and submit your certificate application on IACRA

Step 2 — Register Your Drone (N-Number)

• Drones 55 lbs and over register by paper (AC Form 8050-1), not FAADroneZone
• Include a bill of sale and articles of organization (if operating as a company)
• Submit the $5 registration payment to the FAA
• Register your drone's Remote ID serial number

Step 3 — Class 3 Medical (if required)

• Find your closest Aviation Medical Examiner (AME)
• Schedule and complete the Class 3 medical examination

Step 4 — Section 44807 Exemption (55+ lbs)

• Apply for your 44807 weight exemption — have your Part 107 and N-number done first
• Expect roughly 8–10 weeks of FAA processing time

Step 5 — Part 137 Agricultural Aircraft Operator Certificate

• After 44807 approval, submit a copy of your 8710-3 form to apply for the Part 137
• Keep FAA-required records for at least one year (U.PASS offers FAA-audited logbooks)

Step 6 — State Requirements

• Obtain your state pesticide applicator license (requirements vary by state)
• Check state-specific drone and chemical application rules before every out-of-state job

Step 7 — Insurance

• Carry chemical liability at or above your state's minimum
• Add non-chemical (GL) liability — underwriters typically require $1M+
• List every drone flying under your Part 137 certificate on the policy
• Confirm hull values match replacement cost and add spare-parts coverage for batteries, spreaders, and ground gear

Step 7 is where we come in. Quotes from more carriers than any other agency — in seconds.