TRUST Certificate

Starting in June 2021, all recreational flyers must pass an aeronautical knowledge and safety test and provide proof of test passage (the TRUST completion certificate) to the FAA or law enforcement (including campus police) upon request. The test is free for everyone and takes 20-30 minutes to complete. The FAA provides education and testing content to FAA Approved Test Administrators of TRUST, who in turn provide the content to recreational flyers for free.

You may take The Recreational UAS Safety Test at any of the administrators found on the FAA’s website: https://www.faa.gov/uas/recreational_fliers/knowledge_test_updates/

The TRUST is divided into two sections:

• The first section provides you with the information needed to pass the test.

• The second section is a series of multiple choice questions. You cannot fail the test. If you answer a question incorrectly you will be provided with information on why the answer you chose was incorrect and will be promoted to try again.

Upon completion of the TRUST you will receive a completion certificate. The certificate never expires however if you lose your certificate you will need to re-take the test and obtain a new certificate. Neither the test administrator, nor the FAA, will maintain personally identifiable information about the recreational flyer so it is not possible to re-print or re-issue your original certificate. We recommend uploading your certificate to UC Drones so that you have a backup copy available.

What is TRUST?

TRUST is The Recreational UAS Safety Test. It provides education and testing for recreational flyers on important safety and regulatory information. If you fly your drone recreationally under the Exception for Recreational Flyers you must pass the test before you fly - this includes both recreational use and certain academic use-cases.

Taking the TRUST

You may take the free online test through any of the approved test administrators listed on the FAA’s website here: https://www.faa.gov/uas/recreational_fliers/knowledge_test_updates/. After you complete the TRUST, you will be given the option to download your TRUST certificate and write down your Authentication Token. We recommend uploading your TRUST certificate and entering your Authentication Token into your pilot profile within UC Drones.

The recreational use of sUAS, drone, or unmanned aircraft is defined as:

The operation of an unmanned aircraft for personal interests and enjoyment. For example, using a sUAS to take photographs for your own personal use is considered recreational. Using the same drone to take photographs or videos for sale would be considered a commercial operation.

Aircraft, Pilot and Operational Requirements:

• Drones must weigh less than 55 lbs.

• Must have registered with the FAA.

• Obtain a remote pilot certificate from the FAA.

• Must be marked with a label containing registration information.

• Keep your drone in eyesight at all times, and use an observer to assist if needed.

• Remain clear of and do not interfere with manned aircraft operations, and you must see and avoid other aircraft and obstacles at all times.

• Do not fly over unprotected persons or moving vehicles, and remain at least 25 feet away from individuals and vulnerable property.

• Contact the airport and control tower before flying within five miles of an airport or heliport.

• Do not fly in adverse weather conditions such as in high winds or reduced visibility.

• Do not fly under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Ensure the operating environment is safe and that the operator is competent and proficient in the operation of the drone.

• Do not fly near or over sensitive infrastructure or property such as power stations, water treatment facilities, correctional facilities, roadways, government facilities, etc.

• Check and follow all local laws and ordinances before flying over private property.

• Do not conduct surveillance or photograph persons in areas where there is an expectation of privacy without the individual’s permission.