What is FAA Part 137?

Part 137 of the Federal Aviation Regulations is the rule that authorizes the dispensing of economic poisons (pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, fertilizers) and other agricultural materials from an aircraft. It applies equally to manned crop dusters and to agricultural drones. Without an active Part 137 certificate, a drone operator cannot legally apply agricultural chemicals in the United States — full stop.

Does the pilot or the company hold the Part 137?

The Part 137 certificate is issued to the company (or sole proprietor) — not to the individual pilot. The pilot needs an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. The company needs the Part 137 on top. Both are required for legal spray operations.

How long does Part 137 certification take?

Most applicants take 60–120 days from start to issued certificate. The process involves a written application, a knowledge test on the chemicals to be dispensed, an inspection of the drone and dispensing system, and approval by the local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO).

Does Part 137 cover all chemicals?

Part 137 authorizes dispensing 'economic poisons' as defined in the regulation, plus seed and other ag materials. The actual chemical you apply must also be EPA-labeled for aerial application — labels matter. Always read the label and confirm aerial application is permitted for that specific product.

Are there exemptions or waivers?

Yes — most drone operators also hold a Part 137 exemption or waiver covering things like operating with an unmanned aircraft above 55 lbs, swarm operations, or beyond-visual-line-of-sight operations. AeroAcres operates under the standard Part 137 plus the most common drone-specific exemptions.

What should I ask before hiring a drone applicator?

Ask for three documents: (1) the pilot's Part 107 license, (2) the company's Part 137 certificate, (3) the applicator's state FDACS commercial applicator license. A serious operator will send all three before the first job and include them with the coverage report. If any of the three are missing — find a different operator.