What You Need to Know

Recreational drone use is where the thrill of flight meets pure fun and curiosity—whether you’re zipping around your backyard, capturing stunning aerial shots on a weekend adventure, or racing friends through makeshift obstacle courses. Flying recreationally is how many pilots catch the bug, learning the basics of safe flight, mastering tricky maneuvers, and exploring new ways to see the world from above. It’s a hobby that’s easy to start, endlessly rewarding, and a gateway to skills that can grow into more serious opportunities down the road. Plus, let’s be honest—there’s just nothing quite like the feeling of sending your drone skyward and seeing the world from a bird’s-eye view.

TRUST Test.

Here are some rules for recreational drone use:

Fly below 400 feet: Stay at or below 400 feet above the ground.
Maintain visual line of sight: Keep the drone within your sight at all times.
Avoid restricted airspace: Don't fly in areas where it's prohibited.
Don't fly over groups of people: Avoid flying over crowds.
Give way to manned aircraft: Stay clear of other aircraft.
Avoid emergency response activities: Don't fly near fires or other emergency response efforts.
Keep away from sensitive areas: Avoid flying near campgrounds, trail heads, and visitor centers.
Obey privacy laws: Be respectful of people's privacy.
Take a safety test: Complete a basic safety knowledge test.
Register your drone: Register drones that weigh between 0.55 pounds (250 grams) and 55 pounds (25 kilograms) with the FAA.