1
Decide how you’ll be flying

Before you register anything, the FAA cares about why you’re flying. Pick the path that fits you right now.
Flying for fun (Recreational)
- Hobby & personal enjoyment
- Not for business, job, or compensation
This path requires the free online safety test: TRUST.
Continue with TRUST
Flying for work or money (Commercial)
- Business, side hustle, services, or paid content
- Real estate, inspections, marketing, education, etc.
This path requires a pilot certificate: Part 107.
Jump to Part 107 overview
Not sure which applies? (quick rule)

If the flight supports a business, organization, job, client, or paid deliverable in any way, it’s generally considered commercial—go Part 107. If it’s purely for personal enjoyment, it’s recreational.
2

Recreational: Take the TRUST safety test

TRUST is the FAA-required safety test for recreational flyers. It’s quick and beginner-friendly.

Cost

Free

Time

~15–30 min

Pass/Fail

You can’t fail

Keep it

Carry the certificate

After you complete TRUST, save a digital copy and/or print it.

Take TRUST Next: Register the drone
3
Register your drone (FAA DroneZone)

Most drones over 250 grams (0.55 lb) must be registered. Registration identifies the drone to the FAA. It’s not a pilot license.
Recreational registration
- One registration can cover multiple drones
- Mark the registration number on your drone
Commercial registration
- Each drone is registered individually
- Used for Part 107 operations
Go to FAA DroneZone Next: Check airspace (LAANC)

Quick tip: where do I put the registration number?

Put it on the exterior of the drone or inside the battery compartment—somewhere accessible without tools.
4
Commercial: Part 107 & IACRA (quick overview)

If you’re flying for work or compensation, you’ll need a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. You pass a knowledge exam, then apply through IACRA.
- Part 107 is a pilot certificate (it applies to you, not the drone)
- IACRA is the FAA portal used for the application process
- This is separate from drone registration
Learn about Part 107 Part 107 study resources Schedule a call
5
Check where you’re allowed to fly (LAANC)

Even with TRUST/Part 107 and registration, you can’t fly everywhere. Near airports and in controlled airspace, you may need authorization. That’s where LAANC comes in.
- LAANC helps you check airspace and request authorization (often instantly)
- Most pilots use popular flight apps to do this
- Check airspace before you launch
Learn LAANC basics Next: Flying near people
6
Flying near or over people (know before you launch)

“Operations Over People” is one of the most misunderstood rules for new pilots. In general, you can’t fly directly over people—there are limited exceptions and specific requirements.
- Avoid flying over crowds, events, and moving people beneath you
- Commercial flights may qualify under certain conditions
- If you’re unsure, plan a safer flight path
Learn Operations Over People Finish: What’s next?