Welcome to The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST)
TRUST is a collaboration between the FAA and industry to provide TRUST and educational safety material to Recreational Flyers.
Drone U is an FAA-approved Test Administrator of The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST).
Who should take The Recreational UAS Safety Test?
Anyone is considered a "recreational flyer" if they fly PURELY for fun or personal enjoyment and not as a commercial operator under Part 107. Recreational flyers can access the TRUST here:
Additional Resources
Register your drone through the FAA Drone Zone before you fly if it weighs more than .551bs
B4UFLY provides information about airspace and does not offer airspace authorizations.
Information about how to get started as a recreational flyer.
FAA-Approved UAS Service Suppliers (FAA USSs) of the Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC).
LAANC USSs provide FAA approved airspace authorizations and information about airspace restrictions to recreational flyers who wish to fly in controlled airspace.
Approved service suppliers have created apps that can be downloaded via apple or google play. Links to the companies are available here.
What is a Recreational Flight?
Many people assume that a recreational flight is one that is not operated for a business or any form of compensation. But, that's not always the case. Financial compensation, or the lack of it, is not what determines if the flight is recreational or commercial. The following information can be used to help you determine what rules you should be operating under. Remember, the default regulation for drones weighing under 55 pounds is Part 107. The exception for recreational flyers only applies to flights that are purely for fun or personal enjoyment. When in doubt, fly under Part 107.
Note: Non-recreational purposes include things like taking photos to help sell a property or service, roof inspections, or taking pictures of a high school football game for the school’s website. Goodwill or other non-monetary value can also be considered indirect compensation. This would include things like volunteering to use your drone to survey coastlines on behalf of a non-profit organization. Recreational flight is simply flying for fun or personal enjoyment.
What are the Rules for Recreational Flyers?
The Exception for Limited Operation of Unmanned Aircraft (USC 44809) is the law that describes how, when, and where you can fly drones for recreational purposes. Following these rules will keep people, your drone and our airspace safe:
- Fly only for recreational purposes (enjoyment).
- Follow the safety guidelines of an FAA-recognized Community Based Organization (CBO). Note: We have not yet begun officially recognizing CBOs. Recreational flyers are directed to follow the safety guidelines of existing aeromodeling organizations or use the FAA provided safety guidelines per Advisory Circular 91-57B.
- Keep your drone within the visual line of sight or use a visual observer who is co-located (physically next to) and in direct communication with you.
- Give way to and do not interfere with manned aircraft.
- Fly at or below 400' in controlled airspace (Class B, C, D and E) only with prior authorization by using LAANC or DroneZone.
- Fly at or below 400 feet in Class G (uncontrolled) airspace.
- Note: Flying drones in certain airspace is not allowed. Classes of airspace and flying restrictions can be found in FAA LAANC apps, the FAA's B4UFLY app or the UAS Facility Maps webpage.
- Take The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and carry proof of test passage.
- Have a current registration, mark (PDF) your drones on the outside with the registration number and carry proof of registration with you.
- Do not operate your drone in a dangerous manner. For example:
- Do not interfere with emergency response or law enforcement activities.
- Do not fly under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Individuals violating any of these rules, and/or operating in a dangerous manner, may be subject to FAA enforcement action.
For more information, read Advisory Circular 91-57B.
Not sure what type of a drone user you are? Get help making the determination HERE.
Check out the FAA website for the latest updates or follow them on social media for the latest news.
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