In recent years, the skies have become increasingly populated with recreational drones. As these unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) have grown in popularity, so too has the need for regulations ensuring they're operated safely. Enter TRUST – The Recreational UAS Safety Test – a mandatory certification program for recreational drone pilots in the United States. This article explores what TRUST is, why it matters, and how to get certified.
What is TRUST?
TRUST (The Recreational UAS Safety Test) is an online education and certification program established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in June 2021. It was developed in response to requirements specified in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018, which mandated that recreational drone operators pass an aeronautical knowledge and safety test and carry proof of test passage when operating their drones.
The program aims to ensure that all recreational drone pilots understand basic flight safety, airspace restrictions, and the regulations governing recreational drone operation in the United States. Unlike the more comprehensive Part 107 certification required for commercial drone pilots, TRUST is specifically designed for hobbyists and recreational users.
According to the FAA's official TRUST webpage, "The test was developed to meet Congressional requirements for recreational flyers to demonstrate knowledge of aeronautical safety knowledge and rules for flying unmanned aircraft."
Why TRUST Matters
The implementation of TRUST represents a significant step in the FAA's ongoing efforts to integrate drones safely into the national airspace. As David Boulter, former Acting Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety at the FAA, noted when TRUST was launched, "This free test is an important step in the FAA's efforts to ensure the safety of all airspace users."
The importance of TRUST is multifaceted:
- Safety Enhancement: By educating recreational pilots about basic aviation knowledge, TRUST helps reduce the risk of dangerous drone operations.
- Legal Compliance: Under federal law, all recreational drone pilots must complete TRUST before flying their drones. Flying without certification is a violation of federal regulations.
- Airspace Awareness: TRUST ensures pilots understand where they can and cannot fly, helping to prevent airspace incursions near airports or in restricted areas.
- Community Acceptance: As drone use increases, programs like TRUST help build public confidence that drone operators understand their responsibilities.
According to the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA), one of the FAA-approved TRUST administrators, "The test is designed to help recreational flyers learn and understand the rules and regulations for safely flying drones in the National Airspace System."
What TRUST Covers
The TRUST certification process covers several key areas of knowledge essential for safe recreational drone operation:
- Basic drone regulations and the definition of recreational flying
- Airspace classification and restrictions
- Aviation weather and its impact on drone operations
- Drone safety guidelines and operational limitations
- Emergency procedures and contingency planning
- Respect for privacy and community concerns
- Updates to rules and regulations
The test is designed to be educational rather than punitive. It's not a pass/fail test in the traditional sense; instead, it guides users through learning modules and ensures they understand the material before proceeding.
How to Get TRUST Certified
Getting your TRUST certification involves a straightforward process:
- Choose an FAA-Approved Administrator: The FAA has authorized several organizations to administer the TRUST. These include:
- Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA)
- Drone Launch Academy
- Pilot Institute
- Unmanned Safety Institute
- And several others listed on the FAA's TRUST webpage
- Complete the Training: The training consists of multiple modules covering the essential information recreational drone pilots need to know. The material typically takes about 30 minutes to review.
- Take the Test: After reviewing each section, you'll answer questions to confirm your understanding. If you answer incorrectly, you'll be guided back to the relevant material and can try again.
- Receive Your Certificate: Upon completion, you'll receive a TRUST completion certificate with a unique identification number. This certificate never expires, but you should keep it with you (either in physical or digital form) whenever you fly your drone.
According to DroneXL, "The test is quite straightforward and is designed to educate rather than to make it difficult for people to pass."
TRUST vs. Part 107 Certification
It's important to understand that TRUST is specifically for recreational drone pilots. If you plan to use your drone for any commercial purpose – including selling photos or videos taken with your drone, using your drone for paid services, or flying your drone as part of your job – you need a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate instead of or in addition to TRUST.
The differences between the two certifications are significant:
- Complexity: TRUST is simpler and focuses only on recreational operations. Part 107 is more comprehensive.
- Testing: TRUST is completed online with learning modules. Part 107 requires passing a knowledge test at an FAA-approved testing center.
- Renewal: TRUST certificates never expire. Part 107 certificates must be renewed every 24 months.
- Cost: TRUST is free. Part 107 certification costs approximately $175 for the initial test.
Beyond TRUST: Other Requirements for Recreational Drone Pilots
While TRUST certification is essential, it's not the only requirement for recreational drone pilots. You must also:
- Register Your Drone: If your drone weighs more than 0.55 pounds (250 grams), you must register it with the FAA through the DroneZone portal.
- Follow the Recreational Flyer Rules: These include flying at or below 400 feet, keeping your drone within visual line of sight, not flying in restricted airspace, and avoiding other aircraft.
- Use the B4UFLY App: The FAA recommends using the B4UFLY mobile app to check airspace restrictions before flying.
- Adhere to Community-Based Organization Guidelines: The FAA encourages recreational flyers to follow the safety guidelines of community-based organizations like the Academy of Model Aeronautics.
Conclusion
The TRUST certification represents an important step in balancing the growing popularity of recreational drones with the need for safe airspace. For drone enthusiasts, obtaining TRUST certification is more than just a legal requirement—it's an opportunity to demonstrate commitment to responsible flying and contribute to the positive perception of the drone community.
By completing this simple but informative test, recreational pilots gain essential knowledge that helps keep themselves, other aircraft, and people on the ground safe. As drone technology continues to evolve and become more accessible, programs like TRUST will play an increasingly important role in ensuring that our shared airspace remains safe for all.
If you're a recreational drone pilot who hasn't yet completed TRUST, visit the FAA's TRUST webpage to select an administrator and get certified today. The process is free, educational, and essential for legal drone operation in the United States.
