Choose the lawful starting path
Part 107 is the normal federal framework for small-drone operations that are not flown strictly for recreation. A flight may support a business even when nobody is paid for that particular flight. The key question is the purpose of the operation.
Three paths that people commonly confuse
| Situation | Normal next step | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Strictly recreational flying under the exception | Complete TRUST and follow all recreational conditions | Recreational safety requirement; not a Remote Pilot Certificate |
| First-time non-recreational pilot | Create an FTN, pass the UAG test, submit IACRA application | Initial Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate path |
| Current Part 61 pilot with current flight review | Complete the applicable FAA online initial training and validation process | Alternate initial path without taking UAG |
“I am not getting paid” does not automatically make a flight recreational. A roof survey for a business, school project supporting an organization, volunteer public-safety mission, or marketing video can still be non-recreational.
Questions to ask before launch
- Would I make this flight if there were no business, client, organization, inspection, or public purpose?
- Who requested the flight, and who receives the data?
- Is the flight incidental to a job or business decision?
- Am I relying on the recreational exception, and can I satisfy every condition of that exception?
When the purpose is mixed or unclear, use the more conservative Part 107 route or seek current FAA guidance.