All Regulations
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Recreational Drone Flying Rules (Exception for Limited Recreational Operations)
Recreational drone flying in the US is governed by 49 USC § 44809, the Exception for Limited Recreational Operations. This replaced the older Section 336 Special Rule. Recreational pilots do not need a Part 107 certificate but must follow specific rules.
Effective: March 16, 2023
TRUST Certification Required
All recreational drone pilots must pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) before flying.
- Free online test — takes approximately 30 minutes
- Available from FAA-approved test administrators
- Covers airspace rules, safety guidelines, and regulations
- Certificate must be carried while flying (digital or printed)
- No expiration — valid indefinitely once passed
Flying Rules for Recreational Pilots
Recreational pilots must follow these rules at all times.
- Fly for recreational purposes only (no commercial use)
- Keep the drone within visual line of sight at all times
- Stay below 400 feet AGL in uncontrolled airspace
- In controlled airspace, get LAANC authorization before flying
- Never fly near other aircraft, especially near airports
- Never fly over groups of people, stadiums, or emergency responses
- Never fly under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Follow community-based organization (CBO) safety guidelines
Registration for Recreational Drones
Drones weighing 250g (0.55 lbs) or more must be registered with the FAA.
- Register at faadronezone.faa.gov
- One registration covers all recreational drones ($5 for 3 years)
- Registration number must be displayed externally on each drone
- Drones under 250g (most tiny whoops) are exempt from registration