Drone Registration & FAA Requirements
Before flying a drone in the United States, you may need to register it with the FAA and follow different rules depending on how you use it.
Whether you are flying recreationally or under Part 107 is determined by the purpose of the flight at that moment.
If the flight is purely for fun, it is recreational.
If the flight benefits a business, property, or organization in any way, it becomes commercial (Part 107).
- Flying for fun → Recreational
- Roof inspection, real estate photos, marketing → Part 107
- Even unpaid work that benefits a business → Part 107
Recreational flyers must still follow FAA rules—this is not a free pass.
- Recreational + under 249g: No registration required
- Recreational + 250g+: Registration required
- Any commercial use: Registration required (all weights)
The 249g exception only applies to recreational flying.
If your drone flight benefits a business in any way, it falls under Part 107.
You must register the drone AND hold a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
A licensed Part 107 pilot can act as the Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC) for your operation.
This means they are legally responsible for the flight and ensure all FAA rules are followed—making the operation compliant.
In many cases, hiring a licensed pilot is the easiest and safest way to stay compliant without getting your own certification.
- Free and available online
- Required before flying
- You must carry proof of completion
Recreational pilots must still follow FAA safety rules.
Need to Fly for Business?
Skip the confusion. Work with a licensed Part 107 drone pilot and stay fully compliant.
Hire a Licensed Drone Pilot →- Flight purpose determines recreational vs Part 107
- Under 249g → no registration (recreational only)
- Any business use → Part 107 required
- Licensed pilot can act as Remote Pilot in Command
- Recreational → TRUST test required
