Where to Go from Here

You Have the Basics. Now What?

If you followed this course from lesson one, you now understand what drones are, how to buy one, how to set it up, where to fly legally, how to control it, how to practice, how to stay safe, and how to take decent photos and videos. That is a solid foundation.

The gap between where you are now and where you want to be is filled by practice. Here is how to keep improving.

The 30-Day Practice Challenge

Spend 30 minutes flying for 30 consecutive days (weather permitting). Here is a structured progression:

Week 1 (Days 1 to 7): Control Mastery

• Repeat the exercises from lesson 8 every session
• Focus on hovering, the square, and the circle
• Keep the drone within 30 meters
• End each session with 5 minutes of free flying

Week 2 (Days 8 to 14): Distance and Altitude

• Gradually extend your range to 50 to 100 meters
• Practice flying at different altitudes (10, 30, 50 meters)
• Try turning off Beginner Mode if you feel ready
• Start taking photos and reviewing them afterward

Week 3 (Days 15 to 21): Camera Work

• Practice the shots from lesson 11 (reveal, orbit, crane, fly-by)
• Experiment with different camera angles and gimbal positions
• Shoot during golden hour at least twice
• Review your footage and identify what you would improve

Week 4 (Days 22 to 30): Combining Skills

• Plan a specific shot before each flight and execute it
• Fly in slightly windier conditions (up to 12 mph) to build confidence
• Try flying in a new location after checking airspace
• Edit your best clips into a short 30-second video

Courses to Take Next

This beginner course covers the essentials, but it is just the starting point. Depending on your interests, these free courses on drone.courses go deeper:

Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate — If you want to fly commercially (real estate, inspections, photography for clients), you need an FAA Part 107 certificate. Our 29-lesson study guide covers regulations, airspace, weather, and everything the exam tests.

Drone Photography Masterclass — 15 lessons on camera settings, composition, light, editing in Lightroom, and developing your creative eye.

Cinematic Drone Video — 18 lessons covering cinematic shots, color grading, editing workflow, and storytelling with your drone.

Drone Business — 15 lessons on turning your drone skills into income: pricing, finding clients, insurance, and building a demo reel.

Real Estate Drone — 12 lessons on shooting real estate listings, from shot lists to delivering the final package to clients.

Getting Your FAA Certificate

If you are in the United States and want to fly for any commercial purpose, the Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is your next step. The process involves:

1. Study for the knowledge test (our free course covers the material)
2. Create an FTN (FAA Tracking Number) on IACRA

3. Schedule the test at a PSI testing center (~$175)
4. Pass the 60-question exam (70% or higher)
5. Submit Form 8710-13 to the FAA
6. Receive your certificate in the mail

The test is not easy, but with focused study, most people pass within two to four weeks of preparation.

If your goal is commercial flying, do not wait. Start our Part 107 course now. You can practice flying and studying at the same time.

Joining the Community

Drones are more fun with other people. Here are ways to connect:

• Local flying clubs — Search for drone clubs or RC flying fields in your area
• Online forums — communities like r/drones on Reddit, DJI forums, and various Facebook groups
• YouTube — Channels like Pilot Institute,51Dronie, and Drone Film Guide share tips, reviews, and inspiration
• Instagram — Search #dronephotography and #fromwhereidrone for inspiration and to share your own work

Keep Flying

The most important thing is to keep flying regularly. Skills fade without practice. Even 15 minutes a week keeps your muscle memory sharp. Try new locations, new angles, new subjects. Push your comfort zone gradually.

Every experienced pilot was once a beginner who almost gave up after their first sketchy landing. You are already ahead of most people because you took the time to learn the right way.

See you in the air.

Quick Check

Q: How long should you practice flying before attempting commercial work? A: At least 30 days of regular practice, plus earning your Part 107 certificate. Rushing into paid work before your skills are solid risks your equipment, your reputation, and your legal standing.

Q: What is the first step to getting an FAA Part 107 certificate? A: Study for and pass the 60-question knowledge test at a PSI testing center. Our free Part 107 course covers all the material.

Q: What is the best way to keep improving after this course? A: Fly regularly (30 minutes a day for 30 days), try new locations and subjects, and take our more advanced courses on photography, video, or the Part 107 certificate.

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Ready to take the next step? Pilot Institute offers comprehensive video courses with instructor support, practice exams, and step-by-step guidance for every stage of your drone journey.