FAA TRUST Drone Exam: Why You Need This? (2024 Updated)

As the use of drones continues to increase, so does the need for a formalized process to ensure that operators are following best practices and adhering to safety regulations.

The Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) TRUST drone exam is one way to verify an operator’s understanding of these concepts. The TRUST drone exam is a computer-based test that consists of 50 multiple-choice questions.

The test covers various topics related to drone safety, including airspace rules, weather conditions, and emergency procedures.

This article will provide an overview of who needs to take the FAA TRUST drone exam, as well as some tips on preparing for and passing the test.

Who Needs to Take the FAA TRUST Drone Exam?

The FAA requires that all drones weighing more than 0.55 pounds (250 grams) be registered with the agency. To register a drone, the operator must be at least 13 years old and have a valid credit or debit card.

There is no age limit for taking the FAA TRUST drone exam, but the test must be taken in person at an authorized testing center.

Operators who are seeking a Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) from the FAA are required to pass the TRUST drone exam. The RPC is necessary for anyone who wants to fly a drone commercially or for any other non-recreational purposes.

To be eligible for an RPC, an operator must be at least 16 years old and have a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license. The operator must also be able to speak, read, and understand English.

There are a few exceptions to the RPC requirements. Operators who already hold a pilot’s license from the FAA (or another government agency) are not required to take the TRUST drone exam or obtain an RPC.

Operators who are flying drones for hobby or recreational purposes are also not required to take the exam or obtain an RPC.

Also Read: 10+ Best Tips For Flying a Drone at Night

Topics Covered in the Exam

The TRUST exam covers a wide range of topics related to drone operation, including:

Airspace rules: Operators must be familiar with the different types of airspace and the requirements for flying in each one.

Weather conditions: The exam will test an operator’s knowledge of different weather conditions and how they can affect a drone’s performance.

Emergency procedures: Operators must know how to respond in the event of an emergency, such as a lost signal or mechanical failure.

Flight operations: The exam will cover topics such as takeoffs, landings, and turns.

Aerodynamics: Operators must understand the basics of aerodynamics to safely fly a drone.

Section 44809 and TRUST

The TRUST exam is based on the FAA’s regulatory framework for drones, which is known as Section 44809. This section of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) covers all aspects of drone operation, from registration requirements to flight rules.

The TRUST exam is designed to ensure that operators are familiar with the regulations in Section 44809 and can safely comply with them. It is important to note that the TRUST exam is not a substitute for reading the Section 44809 regulations.

Operators are still responsible for ensuring they are familiar with all relevant regulations before flying a drone.

Also Read: Best Tips on How to Pitch Your Drone Services

Is it required if you already have Part 107?

The TRUST drone exam is not required for operators who already have a Part 107 certificate. However, it may be beneficial for those who wish to demonstrate their knowledge and skills to potential employers or clients. It is also a good way to stay up-to-date on the latest safety regulations.

Where can TRUST be taken?

TRUST can be taken online at the FAA website. An operator must first create an account on the FAA website before taking the exam. The exam must be completed within one hour, and operators are not permitted to use any outside resources while taking the test.

Also Read: Importance of Retrieving a Crashed Drone

What is the next step after passing TRUST?

After passing the TRUST exam, operators will be issued a certificate of completion. This certificate can then be used to apply for a drone license. The process for applying for a drone license is the same as the process for applying for any other type of FAA license.

Operators must submit an application, pass a knowledge test, and pass a skills test. Operators who already have a Part 107 certificate do not need to take the TRUST exam to apply for a drone license.

However, they may find it beneficial to do so to demonstrate their knowledge and skills to potential employers or clients.

Conclusion

This was a lot of information, but we hope it was helpful! In short, anyone operating a drone for commercial purposes needs to take the FAA’s Trust exam. The best way to ensure you’re prepared is to study with an accredited course provider like Test Prep Toolkit.

Good luck with your test! Thank you for taking the time to read this article! We hope you get what you want from it.