Part 107 vs Recreational Drone Operation
Commercial vs recreational drone flying: TRUST exam, Part 107 cert, operating limits, and which applies to you.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Part 107 (Commercial)
Recreational (TRUST)
Commercial allowed
Yes
No
Test
60 questions, 70%
TRUST (online, 23 questions)
Cost
$175
Free
Recurrent
Every 24 months
Once
Pricing
Part 107 (Commercial)
$175 test + $0-300 prep course
Recreational (TRUST)
Free
Pros & Cons
Part 107 (Commercial)
Pros
- +Allows commercial monetization
- +Daylight + civil twilight ops
- +Up to 400 ft AGL standard
Cons
- –Knowledge test required
- –Recurrent every 24 months
Recreational (TRUST)
Pros
- +Free TRUST exam (5 minutes online)
- +No commercial monetization allowed
- +Hobbyist freedom under FRIA / community-based org
Cons
- –No commercial use
- –Limited to recreational purpose
Best For
Part 107 (Commercial)
Anyone making money with drones
Recreational (TRUST)
Pure hobbyist flying
Our Verdict
Commercial = Part 107. Hobbyist = TRUST. Don't fly commercial without Part 107 — FAA enforcement is active.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does my flight become commercial?
Any compensation (real estate photo for agent, YouTube monetization with sponsor) requires Part 107. Strict interpretation by FAA.
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