Do I need permission from the FAA to fly a UAS or drone for recreation or as a hobby?
There are two ways for recreational or hobby UAS or drone fliers to operate in the National Airspace System in accordance with the law and/or FAA regulations.
Option #1: Fly in accordance with the limited statutory exception for recreation. Under this rule, operators must:
- Register your drone or UAS with the FAA
- Fly for hobby or recreational purposes only
- Follow a community-based set of safety guidelines
- Fly your drone within visual line-of-sight
- Give way to manned aircraft
- Obtain an airspace authorization to operate in controlled airspace.
- Fly a drone or UAS that weigh no more than 55 lbs. unless certified by a community-based organization
Option #2: Fly under the FAA's Small UAS Rule (14 CFR part 107). Under this rule, operators must:
- Register their drone or UAS with the FAA as a "non-modeler"
- Obtain an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate
- Follow the operational requirements of Part 107
Still can't find what you are looking for? Please feel free to contact the UAS Support Center for general questions and comments.