Recreational Flyers

  • What is a Recreational Flight?

    Many people assume that a recreational flight simply means not flying for a business or being compensated. But, that's not always the case. Compensation, or the lack of it, is not what determines if a flight was recreational or not. Before you fly your drone, you need to know which regulations apply to your flight.

  • Note: If your drone weighs more than .55 pounds (lbs), you must register your drone through the FAA's Drone Zone.

    Understand recreational flying requirements

    Visit the Recreational Flyers page to learn about rules for recreational flyers.

    Take TRUST

    You can take a free online test through FAA approved test administrators.

    All test questions are correctable to 100% prior to issuing your completion certificate.

    Receive your certificate

    After you pass the test, you will receive a certificate from the test administrator you selected.

  • What is TRUST?

    The law requires that all recreational flyers pass an aeronautical knowledge and safety test and provide proof of passage if asked by law enforcement or FAA personnel. The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) was developed to meet this requirement. 

The Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Unmanned Aircraft (USC 44809) is the law that describes how, when, and where you can fly drones for recreational purposes.

Recreational drone pilots fly drones for fun and personal enjoyment rather than for commercial or professional purposes. In the U.S., recreational drone flying is regulated by the FAA under specific rules to ensure safety and responsibility. Here’s a quick overview:

Key Guidelines for Recreational Drone Pilots

  1. Registration:

    • Drones weighing over 0.55 lbs (250 grams) must be registered through the FAA.

    • Mark the drone with the registration number.

  2. TRUST Certification:

    • All recreational pilots must pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST).

    • This is a free online test offered by FAA-approved organizations.

  3. Operational Rules:

    • Fly at or below 400 feet in uncontrolled (Class G) airspace.

    • Do not interfere with manned aircraft.

    • Maintain visual line of sight with your drone.

    • Do not fly over groups of people, stadiums, or emergency response efforts.

    • Avoid flying near airports (Class B, C, D, or E airspace) without prior authorization via LAANC.

  4. Prohibited Activities:

    • Recreational flying cannot be used for business purposes. If flying for profit or commercial use, you must obtain a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.

    • No reckless operations or flying under the influence of drugs/alcohol.

  5. Respect Privacy and Local Laws:

    • Be mindful of privacy concerns and check local regulations or restrictions on drone use.

  • Community-Based Organizations (CBOs)

    CBOs are organizations recognized by the FAA to establish safety guidelines for recreational drone flyers. These organizations promote responsible drone usage and foster community engagement among enthusiasts.

    Key Aspects of CBOs:

    FAA Recognition

    To be recognized as a CBO, organizations must meet FAA requirements, such as having established safety protocols and promoting educational activities.

    Safety Guidelines

    Recreational flyers should adhere to CBO safety guidelines (e.g., those from organizations like the Academy of Model Aeronautics).

    Community Programs

    Many CBOs provide local flying clubs, educational resources, and organized events for drone enthusiasts.

    Examples of CBOs

    Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA)

    FPV Freedom Coalition

    Overlap Between Recreational Flyers and CBOs

    Recreational flyers often align with a CBO to ensure compliance with FAA rules.

    CBOs help educate new pilots, foster a sense of responsibility, and advocate for the hobbyist community.