Drone Laws and Regulations in America
Find out whether you are allowed to fly your drone in America and what
rules apply or whether it is prohibited in general. We do not assume any liability.
If you find outdated or wrong information or if you want to submit the drone regulations for countries that are currently not listed, feel free to contact us here.
Is private drone flying allowed in America?
Yes, but you need to apply to the rules listed below.
A registration is required (if weight is 0.25 - 25kg / 0.55lbg - 55lbs)
RECREATIONAL DRONE PILOTS (HOBBYISTS)
COMMERCIAL DRONE PILOTS (PROFESSIONALS)
Is commercial drone flying allowed in America?
Yes, but you need to apply to the rules listed below.
A special permission is required (remote pilot airman certificate).
Maximum Height
121m / 400ft
121m / 400ft
Maximum Height
Maximum Distance
The drone needs to remain in sight always (line-of-sight)
The drone needs to remain in sight always (line-of-sight)
Maximum Distance
Labelling Requirements
FAA registration number needs to be visible (you can either engrave it,
install a permanent fireproof label or use a permanent marker)
FAA registration number needs to be visible (you can either engrave it,
install a permanent fireproof label or use a permanent marker)
Labelling Requirements
< 25kg / 55lbs without special permission
> 25kg / 55lbs special permission required
Maximum Take-Off Weight
Maximum Take-Off Weight
< 25kg / 55lbs without special permission
> 25kg / 55lbs special permission required
Day time operations only unless approval has been given
Day Times
Day Times
Day time operations only unless approval has been given
Drone Liability Insurance
Not required, but highly recommended
Not required, but highly recommended
Drone Liability Insurance
Competence Statement / License
Drone registration (5$ fee) required (if weight is 0.25 - 25kg / 0.55 - 55lbs);
the minimum age for the registration process is 13.
Find out how to get a license here;
the minimum age is 16, must past TSA vetting.
Competence Statement / License
Drone Ban Zones
State institutes
Federal authority constructions
Regional authority constructions
Airport control zones (CTR)
Crowds of people (not specified)
Hospitals
Operation sites of police, military, search- and rescue forces
You must always yield right of way to manned aircraft!
FOR DJI DRONES ONLY!
Please note that there are several constant and temporary drone ban zones (known as no-fly-zones) that either won't let your drone take-off at all or that will ask for a permission of yours.
Please click at both graphics to spot all blocked / restricted areas near your desired flying location.
Additional links and important email addresses
Many guides and a lot of information for both hobbyists and professional drone pilots
FAA: uashelp@faa.gov
Submit your countries rules and laws for flying drones in the categories mentioned above
Facebook group for pilots from all around the globe (English)
Check out more drone laws and regulations.
Click here or at the image to see all listed countries.
Or submit the regulations of your country right here.
READ THE DRONE BLOG!