I'm getting into FPV drone racing and I want to make sure I'm flying legally. What FAA rules apply to FPV racing? Do I need a license? What is the TRUST certification? What about Remote ID? Are there any FPV-specific rules I need to know?
Here are the FAA requirements for recreational FPV racing in the US:
No Part 107 license is required for recreational FPV racing through a sanctioned club. But TRUST certification is not optional — it is legally required under the FAA Reauthorization Act.
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The visual observer requirement trips up a lot of solo FPV pilots, and it's the rule most beginners don't know about. The FAA rule is that recreational UAS operators must maintain visual line of sight with their aircraft. When you're in goggles, you cannot maintain visual line of sight — so a designated VO is required.
The VO must be able to see the aircraft at all times and communicate safety concerns to the pilot. At MultiGP races, other pilots watching the course serve as effective VOs. For solo practice sessions, bring a friend or family member. The FAA has issued violations to FPV pilots flying solo without a VO — this is genuinely enforced, not just a paper rule.
Remote ID is the biggest recent change. As of March 2024, all drones over 0.55 lbs flown in the national airspace must broadcast Remote ID data — the drone's serial number, takeoff location, and current location in real time.
For 5-inch FPV quads, most don't have built-in Remote ID, so you need a Remote ID broadcast module. Popular options include the Pilot Institute RemoteID module (~$30) and Dronetag Mini (~$55). They attach to the frame with a zip tie and draw power from the main battery or a small dedicated cell. This is a hard legal requirement as of the FAA's enforcement date — not optional, not a suggestion.
Airspace rules still fully apply to FPV racing. Don't fly within 5 miles of an airport without authorization via the FAA LAANC system. Don't fly above 400 feet AGL. Don't fly over people or moving vehicles. Don't fly at night without a flashing white strobe.
FPV racers at sanctioned club events at pre-approved locations typically have blanket airspace authorization through their club — but flying an impromptu race in a random field near an airport is illegal, regardless of your TRUST certification. Always check airspace before you go. The B4UFLY app (free, FAA) shows you controlled airspace and active TFRs.
MultiGP's own rules layer on top of FAA rules. To compete at a sanctioned MultiGP event: valid FAA TRUST certification (show the completion certificate), FAA registration number physically on your quad, and Remote ID compliance.
MultiGP also requires a tech inspection at each race day — they check motor direction, prop direction, battery strap security, and that your video transmitter is on an assigned channel to avoid interference with other pilots. Show up early for tech inspection. Failing inspection means you don't fly that day. Bring your radio with you to the tech inspection table — the inspector may ask you to demonstrate your arm switch and failsafe.
Liability insurance is not legally required for recreational FPV, but it's strongly recommended. The Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) offers membership that includes $2.5 million liability coverage for about $75 per year.
If your quad damages property or injures someone, that coverage matters. Most private flying fields and some MultiGP chapters require AMA membership or equivalent liability insurance proof to fly on their property. Check your chapter's requirements before your first visit. For a complete overview of everything you need to get started with FPV racing, see our guide on how to get started in FPV drone racing.