What is a UAV/Drone?

An Unmanned Aerial Vehicle(UAV) or drone is an aircraft operated with a remote control or onboard computer system. In recent years, drones have become more and more common throughout the world. It is important to know the area you will be operating in and the regulations you must follow.

Before You Fly

  1. Understand recreational flying requirements.
    1. Visit the Recreational Flyers page to learn about rules for recreational flyers.
    2. Download the FAA's B4UFLY mobile app.
    3. If your drone weighs more than .55 pounds (lbs), you must register your drone through the FAA's Drone Zone.
  2. Take TRUST.
    1. Federal law requires all recreational drone operators to pass an aeronautical knowledge and safety test. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) developed The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) to meet this requirement. 
    2. You may take the free online test through any of the FAA approved test administrators. All FAA-approved TRUST test administrators offer the test free.
    3. All test questions are correctable to 100% prior to issuing your completion certificate.
  3. Receive your certificate.
    1. After completing TRUST, you'll receive a certificate from the administrator you selected.
    2. You'll need to download, save or print your completion certificate. If you lose your certificate, you will need to re-take TRUST.
    3. You must present a copy of your certificate if asked by law enforcement.
    4. View a list of TRUST test administrators.

Restricted Areas and Authorizations

Before you fly, make sure the area you will be operating in is legal for recreational flyers. In some locations, drone takeoffs and landings are restricted by state, local, territorial, or tribal government agencies. For more information on No Drone Zones, visit the FAA website.

Looking for controlled area authorization?

The Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) authorizations are provided to drone pilots through companies approved by the FAA. These companies are known as FAA-approved UAS Service Suppliers.

  • LAANC provides:
    • Automated airspace authorizations at pre-approved altitudes on the UAS facility maps. Requests are approved in near-real time.
    • Further coordination of requests to fly above pre-approved altitudes, as long as the operation is under 400 feet. Further coordination means that the request must be reviewed by an Air Traffic Manager (ATM) who manages the airspace you wish to fly in. The ATM will either approve or deny the further coordination request. Requests must be submitted at least 24 hours prior to the start time.
  • How to request authorization through LAANC:
    • Apply on the date you wish to fly.
    • Select the exact time, altitude and location where you wish to fly. Make sure you select to fly at or below the altitude defined by the UAS facility maps.
    • Approval is typically received in near-real time.

No Fly Zone