What is the exception for recreational flyers?

The exception for recreational flyers only applies to flights that are purely for fun or personal enjoyment . When in doubt, fly under Part 107. If you are unsure what type of user you are, you can use the User Identification Tool for guidance.

What is the difference between recreational flyer and Part 107?

No Certification Required: Recreational drone pilots do not need to undergo the rigorous certification process required for Part 107 . Flexible Flying: Recreational drone pilots have more flexibility in choosing when and where to fly, as long as they adhere to safety guidelines and airspace restrictions.

Do you need a drone license to fly as a hobby?

Do you need a drone license to fly as a hobby? No. If you are flying a drone just for the enjoyment of flying, you do not need a Part 107 license .

What is the 1 to 1 rule drone?

In addition, I must comply with the 1:1 rule. This means that the number of meters of horizontal distance must be at least equal or more than the number of meters of altitude (e.g.: If I fly at 40m height, I must fly at least 40m away from people).

What is the pass rate for the FAA Part 107?

The FAA Part 107 test has a fairly high pass rate – 92% per the most recent statistics in 2018. Most pilots who do fail only do so by a few questions. If you've properly prepared, either through self-study or a course led by an FAA-certified instructor, you're well on your way to success.

Can I change drone registration from recreational to Part 107?

Once a drone is registered, its registration cannot be transferred between operation types (Part 107 or the Exception for Limited Recreational Operations).

How much does it cost to get FAA Part 107?

The cost of the Remote Pilot Certification aeronautical knowledge test is $175 . Remember, this is the test that you take in-person at one of the 800+ FAA-approved knowledge testing centers across the United States. This is paid directly to the knowledge testing center when you're scheduling your testing appointment.

Can a recreational drone pilot fly over people?

Drone pilots operating under Part 107 may fly at night, over people and moving vehicles without a waiver as long as they meet the requirements defined in the rule . Airspace authorizations are still required for night operations in controlled airspace under 400 feet.

What size drone can I fly without a license?

If you are not sure what kind of a drone flyer you are, check out our User Identification Tool or visit our Getting Started webpage to learn more. All drones must be registered, except those that weigh 0.55 pounds or less (less than 250 grams) and are flown under the Exception for Limited Recreational Operations.

Can a recreational drone pilot fly at night in controlled airspace?

Yes, there is nothing restricting a non-recreational or recreational person from flying at night . You just comply with either 14 CFR 107.29 or 49 USC 44809.

How high can a drone fly without FAA authorization?

Fly at or below 400 feet in Class G (uncontrolled) airspace. Note: Anyone flying a drone in the U.S. National Airspace System (NAS) is responsible for flying within the FAA guidelines and regulations.

Recreational Flyers & Community-Based Organizations (2024)

Did your drone registration expire or does it expire soon? The DroneZone is the FAA's official website for registration. If you are having trouble logging into the DroneZone, you may need to reset your password (PDF). Be sure to use the email you used when you originally registered your drone with the FAA.

The rule for operating unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) or drones under 55 pounds in the National Airspace System (NAS) is 14 CFR Part 107, referred to as the Small UAS Rule. However, if you want to fly a drone for purely recreational purposes, there is a limited statutory exception ("carve out") that provides a basic set of requirements.

The Recreational UAS Safety Test or TRUST is available! Recreational flyers are encouraged to take and pass TRUST at their earliest opportunity and carry proof of passage when flying.

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.

The default regulation for drones weighing under 55 pounds is Part 107. Almost all non-recreational drone flying is regulated by Part 107.

What are the Rules for Recreational Flyers?

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. Following these rules helps keep people, your drone and our airspace safe:

Fly only for recreational purposes (personal enjoyment).
Follow the safety guidelines of an FAA-recognized Community Based Organization (CBO).
For more information on how to become an FAA-recognized CBO, read Advisory Circular 91-57C.
See Also
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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 other aircraft.
Fly at or below FAA-authorized altitudes in controlled airspace (Class B, C, D, and surface Class E designated for an airport) only with prior FAA authorization by using LAANC or DroneZone.
Fly at or below 400 feet in Class G (uncontrolled) airspace.
Note: Anyone flying a drone in the U.S. National Airspace System (NAS) is responsible for flying within the FAA guidelines and regulations. That means it is up to you as a drone pilot to know the rules: Where Can I Fly?
Take The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and carry proof of test passage when flying.
Have a current FAA registration, mark (PDF) your drones on the outside with the registration number, and carry proof of registration with you when flying.
Note: Beginning September 16, 2023, if your drone requires an FAA registration number it will also be required to broadcast Remote ID information (unless flown within a FRIA). For more information on drone registration, visit How to Register Your Drone.
Do not operate your drone in a manner that endangers the safety of the national airspace system.

Visiting from another country? Using a foreign-registered drone? Be sure to check out our page: International UAS Operators in the United States

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 91-57C.

Not sure what type of a drone user you are? We can help you!

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Last updated: Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Recreational Flyers & Community-Based Organizations (2024)

What is a Recreational Flight?

What are the Rules for Recreational Flyers?

FAQs

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