Drone Laws in United States
Yes. Recreational visitors either file a Notice of Identification (if the home-registered drone has FAA-compliant Remote ID) or get a US "recognition of ownership"; pass the free TRUST test. Commercial visitors need extra DOT authority.
The United States regulates drones through the FAA, with a 400 ft limit, mandatory Remote ID, and a total ban on operating from National Park Service lands.
This is general guidance, not legal advice. Drone rules change frequently and vary by location. Always confirm the current rules with the national aviation authority (linked below) before you fly. Last reviewed: July 2026.
Aviation authority
Federal Aviation AdministrationThe rules
- Registration
- Required for drones over 250g ($5, valid 3 years; min age to register 13). Recreational flyers must pass the free TRUST test.
- Remote ID
- Required, full enforcement since 16 March 2024 (broadcast, module, or fly only in an FAA-Recognized Identification Area).
- Maximum altitude
- 400 ft (~120 m) in uncontrolled airspace.
- Line of sight
- VLOS at all times (a visual observer is allowed). BVLOS needs a Part 107 waiver (a dedicated Part 108 rule is still only proposed as of mid-2026).
- No-fly and distance rules
- Controlled airspace near airports needs prior authorisation via LAANC. No flying over stadiums/major sporting events (3-nautical-mile radius, event window). Security/critical-infrastructure and military restrictions and TFRs apply.
- Commercial and paid work
- Any paid flight needs an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (min age 16) plus drone registration. Foreign commercial operators also need DOT economic authority (a Part 375 foreign aircraft permit, filed ~15 days ahead).
- Notable restrictions
- Drones are banned from launching/landing/operating on National Park Service lands. Washington, D.C. has a 30-mile Special Flight Rules Area (inner 15 miles prohibited).
- Penalties
- National-park violations are a federal misdemeanour (up to $5,000 and 6 months). FAA civil penalties plus possible criminal penalties and certificate action for airspace/TFR breaches.
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Find a local drone pilotOfficial sources
This is general guidance, not legal advice. Drone rules change frequently and vary by location. Always confirm the current rules with the national aviation authority (linked below) before you fly. Last reviewed: July 2026.