Quick answer: in the US, a drone flown just for fun that weighs under 250 grams at takeoff needs no FAA registration and no Remote ID, only the free TRUST certificate. At 250g or more you register it ($5 for three years) and fly with Remote ID. Fly for work or pay at any weight and you need a Part 107 certificate, plus registration and Remote ID. Check your drone below.
What does my drone need?
How the 250-gram rule works
The FAA draws its main line at 250 grams (0.55 lb) of total takeoff weight: the drone, battery, props and anything attached. Below it, recreational flyers skip registration and Remote ID. Above it, or for any commercial flying, both apply. Every recreational pilot, whatever the drone's weight, must pass the free TRUST test.
| Under 250g, for fun | 250g+, for fun | Any weight, for work | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registration | No | Yes, $5 / 3 years | Yes, $5 / 3 years |
| Remote ID | No | Yes (or fly at a FRIA) | Yes |
| Pilot test | TRUST (free) | TRUST (free) | Part 107 certificate |
Tiny whoops weigh 20–35 grams, far under the limit, which is a big part of their appeal. Canada and the EU also use 250 grams as a key threshold, but their rules differ in the details, so check locally when you travel. See our FPV drone guide for picks on both sides of the line.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to register a drone under 250 grams?
Not if you fly only for fun. Recreational drones under 250 grams at takeoff are exempt from FAA registration and Remote ID, but you still need to pass the free TRUST test. Any drone flown for work or pay must be registered, whatever it weighs.
Does the 250g limit include the battery?
Yes. The limit is total takeoff weight, including the battery, propellers, prop guards and any attached camera or accessory. A Mini-class drone with a larger Plus battery goes over 250 grams and must be registered.
Do tiny whoops need Remote ID?
No, not when flown for fun. Tiny whoops weigh roughly 20 to 35 grams, well under the 250 gram threshold, so recreational pilots need neither registration nor Remote ID, only the TRUST certificate.
Can I fly FPV goggles legally in the US?
Yes, as a recreational pilot, if a visual observer stands next to you and keeps the drone in sight, since FAA rules require line of sight. You must also follow the 400-foot ceiling and airspace rules.
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