TRUST Test: How to Take It, Pass It, and Get Your Proof of Completion

If you're planning to fly a drone recreationally in the United States, the Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) is not optional—it's a federal requirement. Whether you're a complete novice or have prior drone experience, you must pass TRUST and carry proof of completion whenever you fly. This guide walks you through what TRUST is, why it matters, how to register, what to expect, sample questions, and direct links to approved test providers.

What is the TRUST Test?

The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) is a free, online knowledge assessment administered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to ensure recreational drone pilots understand safe flying practices, regulations, and airspace awareness. It's not a difficult test—it's designed to be accessible—but it requires genuine understanding of drone safety rules.

Why TRUST Exists

TRUST was created because recreational drone flying intersects with manned aviation in shared airspace. A drone can damage or disable an aircraft if there's a collision. TRUST ensures pilots understand:

• How to operate safely and avoid hazards
• Federal regulations governing recreational flight
• Airspace classifications and restrictions
• Privacy and property considerations
• What to do if something goes wrong

Key Takeaway: TRUST is a safety-focused test, not a gotcha exam. If you follow the rules in this guide, you'll pass.

Who Must Take TRUST?

TRUST is required for all recreational drone pilots under 49 U.S.C. § 44809. This includes:

• First-time drone flyers
• Experienced pilots transitioning from other hobbies
• Anyone flying a drone for fun, not for business or compensation
• All ages (though younger pilots should have adult supervision)

You do NOT need TRUST if:

• You hold a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (commercial pilots)
• You fly only indoors in enclosed spaces (though TRUST is still recommended)
• You fly tethered drones in restricted circumstances (check FAA rules)

Important: Even if you have prior pilot experience (manned aircraft), you must take TRUST for recreational drones. The rules are different.

Eligibility Requirements

There are minimal eligibility requirements to take TRUST:

• Age: No minimum age requirement (minors should have adult supervision)
• Language: You must be able to read and understand English at the level required for the test
• Legal Status: You must be lawfully in the United States or be a foreign visitor with appropriate visa
• No Prior Disqualification: The FAA has not revoked or suspended your flying privileges

Most people who want to fly drones are eligible. The test is accessible to anyone willing to learn.

How to Register for TRUST: Step-by-Step

Registration is quick and free. Here's the process:

Step 1: Choose an Approved TRUST Provider

The FAA recognizes multiple organizations to administer TRUST. All are legitimate and free (or very inexpensive):

Recommendation: Start with FAA Safety Team or your local Community-Based Organization for the best experience.

Step 2: Create an Account (if using online provider)

For FAA Safety Team (FAASafety):

1. Visit faasafety.org
2. Click "Create New Account"
3. Provide your email address
4. Create a password
5. Verify your email address (check your inbox for confirmation link)
6. Complete your profile with name and contact information

For other providers: Follow their specific registration instructions (similar process).

Step 3: Find the TRUST Test in the System

For FAA Safety Team:

1. Log in to your FAASafety account
2. Search for "TRUST" or "Recreational UAS"
3. Select the Recreational UAS Safety Test
4. Click "Enroll" or "Start Test"

Step 4: Review Study Materials (Optional but Recommended)

Before taking the test, the FAA recommends reviewing study materials. These are free:

• FAA Learning Materials: faa.gov/uas/recreational_fliers/knowledge_test_updates
• B4UFLY Mobile App Tutorial: Familiarize yourself with the official airspace checking tool
• Recreational Flyers Page: faa.gov/uas/recreational_fliers

Study time: Most people spend 1-3 hours reviewing materials before taking the test.

Step 5: Take the Test

1. Log in to your account at your chosen provider
2. Start the TRUST test
3. Answer 30-40 questions (varies by provider)
4. Time limit: Usually 1 hour (typically finishes in 20-30 minutes)
5. Questions are multiple choice
6. Submit your test when complete

Step 6: Receive Your Certificate

1. Your score appears immediately after submission
2. Passing score: Typically 80% or higher (check with provider)
3. Receive a digital certificate (can print or save to phone)
4. Certificate is valid for 3 years from the date you pass
5. Print and carry a copy while flying or save it digitally on your phone

Important: You must carry proof of TRUST completion while flying. This can be:

• Printed physical certificate
• Digital copy on your phone
• Screenshot saved on a device

Law enforcement can ask to see your TRUST certificate. Have it ready.

What Does TRUST Cover?

The TRUST test covers five main knowledge areas:

1. Safe Flying Practices

• Pre-flight checks
• Weather considerations
• Battery management
• Communication with air traffic control (if needed)
• Recognizing and avoiding hazards
• Emergency procedures

2. Airspace Awareness and Rules

• Airspace classifications (Class A, B, C, D, E, G)
• Controlled vs. uncontrolled airspace
• Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs)
• How to check airspace using B4UFLY
• Altitide restrictions
• Proximity to airports and other aircraft

3. Regulatory Compliance

• Recreational drone rules (49 U.S.C. § 44809)
• Visual line of sight (VLOS) requirement
• 400-foot altitude limit
• Registration requirements
• Remote ID requirements
• Flying only during daylight hours (with exceptions)
• Not flying over people

4. Privacy and Property Rights

• Privacy expectations and concerns
• Recording and photography laws
• Trespassing considerations
• How to get permission to fly on private property
• Respecting neighbors' privacy

5. Incident Reporting and Safety

• What to do if your drone crashes or is damaged
• Reporting unsafe drone activity
• Near-miss reports
• Communication with FAA (FAA Hotline: 1-844-FLY-MY-UAS)
• Emergency procedures

Sample TRUST Questions (What to Expect)

The test uses multiple-choice questions. Here are representative examples of what you'll encounter:

Sample Question 1: Visual Line of Sight

Question: "You are flying your drone approximately 200 feet away horizontally and 100 feet above the ground in Class G airspace. A cloud passes between you and your drone. You can still see your drone through your smartphone's camera. Can you continue to fly?"

Options:

• A) Yes, you can see the drone on your phone
• B) No, you must maintain direct visual line of sight with your eyes
• C) Yes, if the drone is equipped with lights
• D) Yes, if you have a spotter

Correct Answer: B - You must maintain visual line of sight with your own eyes, not through a camera feed.

Sample Question 2: Airspace and Altitude

Question: "What is the maximum altitude you can fly a recreational drone in uncontrolled airspace?"

Options:

• A) 200 feet above ground level
• B) 400 feet above ground level
• C) 500 feet above ground level
• D) 1,000 feet above ground level

Correct Answer: B - The federal limit is 400 feet above ground level.

Sample Question 3: Flying Near Airports

Question: "You want to fly your drone 3 miles from the nearest airport. Is this allowed?"

Options:

• A) Yes, 3 miles is far enough
• B) No, you must stay at least 5 miles away from airports
• C) Yes, if there are no planes nearby
• D) Yes, if you check the airport's website first

Correct Answer: B - You must stay at least 5 miles from any airport.

Sample Question 4: Temporary Flight Restrictions

Question: "What should you do before every drone flight?"

Options:

• A) Check the weather forecast
• B) Check for active Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) using B4UFLY
• C) Both A and B
• D) Contact the FAA directly

Correct Answer: C - Both checking weather and checking for TFRs are essential pre-flight steps.

Sample Question 5: Night Flying

Question: "Can you fly a recreational drone at night?"

Options:

• A) Yes, anytime
• B) No, never
• C) Only if your drone has lights
• D) Yes, if you're part of a Community-Based Organization with night procedures

Correct Answer: D - Night flying is allowed for recreational pilots who are part of an approved CBO with established night procedures.

Sample Question 6: Remote ID

Question: "As of 2023, which of the following is true about Remote ID?"

Options:

• A) Remote ID is optional
• B) Remote ID is required for most drones manufactured after September 16, 2023
• C) Only commercial pilots need Remote ID
• D) Remote ID is no longer required

Correct Answer: B - Remote ID requirements began September 16, 2023 for most new drones.

Tips for Passing TRUST

Before the Test

• Review Official Materials: The FAA provides free study guides on their website
• Read Carefully: Test questions are specific; read all answer options
• Understand, Don't Memorize: TRUST tests comprehension of safety principles, not rote memorization
• Use B4UFLY: Download and explore the app to understand airspace checking
• Study for 1-3 Hours: Most people don't need extensive studying
• Get Sleep: Don't cram the night before; be fresh and alert

During the Test

• Read Each Question Twice: Ensure you understand what's being asked
• Eliminate Wrong Answers: If unsure, rule out obviously incorrect options
• Focus on Safety: When in doubt, choose the safest option
• Don't Overthink: Trust your knowledge; don't second-guess correct answers
• Use Time Wisely: Flag difficult questions and come back to them
• Review Before Submitting: Check if your provider allows review before final submission

After the Test

• Save Your Certificate: Download and print it immediately
• Back It Up: Email yourself a copy or save to cloud storage
• Carry It Physically: Keep a printed copy in your drone bag
• Set a Reminder: Mark your calendar when the 3-year certificate expires

Approved TRUST Test Providers (Direct Links)

Here are the FAA-recognized providers where you can take TRUST:

Primary Providers

1. FAA Safety Team (FAASafety)

• Website: https://faasafety.org/
• Cost: Free
• Format: Online
• Time: ~30 minutes
• Certificate: Digital (can print)
• Notes: Most popular, reliable, and straightforward

2. Drone U

• Website: Check FAA's list for current link: faa.gov/uas/recreational_fliers/knowledge_test_updates
• Cost: Free
• Format: Online
• Time: ~30 minutes

3. Community-Based Organizations (CBOs)

• Website: faa.gov/uas/recreational_fliers/faa-recognized-community-based-organizations
• Cost: Free to ~$10
• Format: Online or in-person
• Benefits: Hands-on mentoring, community connection, potential flying sites
• Major CBOs: Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA), local drone clubs

How to Find Your Local Community-Based Organization

1. Visit the FAA's CBO directory
2. Search by state or city
3. Call or email local clubs directly
4. Most offer in-person or virtual TRUST administration
5. Many provide mentoring and flying sites for members

Tip: Joining a CBO is optional but highly recommended. You'll learn from experienced pilots and have access to safe flying locations.

TRUST Certificate Details

Validity Period

• Valid for: 3 years from the date you pass
• Expiration: After 3 years, you must retake TRUST to continue flying recreationally
• Renewal: Process is the same as initial test

What Your Certificate Contains

• Your name and date of birth
• Date of test completion
• Expiration date
• Unique certificate number (for verification)
• Provider's information

Carrying Your Certificate

Legal Requirement: You must carry proof of TRUST completion whenever flying recreationally. This can be:

• Printed physical certificate
• Digital copy on your phone (screenshot or PDF)
• Email confirmation from the test provider

Recommendation: Carry both a printed copy and a digital backup. If law enforcement or the FAA asks to see your TRUST certificate, you must produce it.

What Happens If You Fail TRUST?

Failing TRUST is unlikely if you review the materials, but it's possible. Here's what happens:

• You can retake it: Immediately or after reviewing materials
• No penalty: There's no fine or legal consequence for failing
• Study more: Review FAA materials and try again
• You cannot fly recreationally: Until you pass TRUST

Bottom line: If you don't pass on the first try, use the feedback to study the weak areas and retake it. Most people pass the second time.

Frequently Asked Questions About TRUST

Q: How much does TRUST cost?

A: TRUST is free through all FAA-approved providers. If someone charges you a significant fee, you may be using an unapproved source. Stick with official FAA-recognized providers.

Q: How long is the TRUST certificate valid?

A: Your TRUST certificate is valid for 3 years. After 3 years, you must retake the test to continue flying recreationally.

Q: Can I take TRUST on my phone?

A: Yes, most providers offer mobile-friendly online tests. You can take TRUST on a smartphone or tablet.

Q: What if I pass TRUST but never fly?

A: Your certificate remains valid for 3 years even if you don't fly. When your certificate expires, you'll need to retake TRUST if you want to resume flying.

Q: Can I take TRUST if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

A: Yes, TRUST is available to anyone legally in the U.S., including international visitors. Some providers may require different identification or documentation.

Q: What if I lose my TRUST certificate?

A: Contact your test provider for a replacement. They maintain records of who passed and can issue a replacement certificate. You can also request proof of completion from the provider.

Q: Can I use a TRUST certificate from another country?

A: No. The TRUST certificate is specific to the United States. If you're a foreign visitor, you must take TRUST to fly in U.S. airspace. If you're from another country, your home country's certification may not be accepted.

Q: Is TRUST harder than the Part 107 test?

A: No. TRUST is designed for recreational pilots and focuses on basic safety and rules. The Part 107 test (for commercial pilots) is significantly more comprehensive and difficult. Most people find TRUST easier than expected.

Q: Do I need to retake TRUST if I get a Part 107 certificate?

A: No. Part 107 certificated pilots do not need TRUST. Your Part 107 certificate exempts you from TRUST requirements.

Resources for More Information

Official FAA Resources

• TRUST Information: faa.gov/uas/recreational_fliers/knowledge_test_updates
• Recreational Flyers: faa.gov/uas/recreational_fliers
• B4UFLY App: faa.gov/uas/getting_started/b4ufly
• Study Materials: faa.gov/uas

Community-Based Organizations

• Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA): modelaircraft.org - Largest CBO, established 1936
• FAA CBO Directory: faa.gov/uas/recreational_fliers/faa-recognized-community-based-organizations

Your Action Plan

1. Today: Read this guide and review FAA materials
2. Tomorrow: Download and explore B4UFLY app
3. Day 3: Create account with your chosen TRUST provider
4. Day 4: Take the TRUST test
5. Day 5: Print your certificate and save a digital copy
6. Day 6: You're ready to fly! Review airspace and pre-flight checklist

Final Thoughts

TRUST is not a barrier to drone flying—it's a gateway to safe, responsible flying. The test ensures you understand that flying a drone makes you a pilot, with responsibilities to other aircraft and people on the ground. Pass TRUST, carry your certificate, follow the rules, and you'll have years of enjoyable, legal drone flying ahead.

Remember: The questions on TRUST reflect real safety principles. If you understand why the rules exist, you'll ace the test and fly safely.

Last updated: March 2026