FAA Resources
Getting Started
The rules for operating an unmanned aircraft depend on why you want to fly.
| Fly for Fun | Fly for Work | |
|---|---|---|
| Pilot Requirements | No pilot requirements | Must have Remote Pilot Airman Certificate Must be 16 years old Must pass TSA vetting |
| Aircraft Requirements | Must be registered if over 0.55 lbs. | Must be less than 55 lbs. Must be registered if over 0.55 lbs. (online) Must undergo pre-flight check to ensure UAS is in condition for safe operation |
| Location Requirements | 5 miles from airports without prior notification to airport and air traffic control | Class G airspace* |
| Operating Rules | Must ALWAYS yield right of way to manned aircraft Must keep the aircraft in sight (visual line-of-sight) UAS must be under 55 lbs. Must follow community-based safety guidelines Must notify airport and air traffic control tower before flying within 5 miles of an airport |
Must keep the aircraft in sight (visual line-of-sight)* Must fly under 400 feet* Must fly during the day* Must fly at or below 100 mph* Must yield right of way to manned aircraft* Must NOT fly over people* Must NOT fly from a moving vehicle* |
| Example Applications | Educational or recreational flying only | Flying for commercial use (e.g. providing aerial surveying or photography services) Flying incidental to a business (e.g. doing roof inspections or real estate photography) |
| Legal or Regulatory Basis | Public Law 112-95, Section 336 – Special Rule for Model Aircraft FAA Interpretation of the Special Rule for Model Aircraft |
Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulation (14 CFR) Part 107 |
*These rules are subject to waiver.
Original content for this page gathered from: https://www.faa.gov/uas/getting_started/