Is DJI banned in the US?
Updated October 2026
Short answer: you can still buy many DJI drones in the US, but no new ones. Here is what changed, what it means for you, and what to buy now.
What happened
In December 2025 the FCC added DJI, along with other foreign-made drones and drone components, to its Covered List. Equipment on that list cannot receive new FCC equipment authorizations, which every radio device needs to be imported and sold in the US.
What that means in practice
- Already-authorized models (such as the Mini 4 Pro, Mini 4K, Air 3S and Mavic 3 Pro) can still be sold by retailers.
- New models cannot be authorized, so DJI launches after the action are not sold in the US.
- Stock is shrinking. Retailers report that inventory is not being fully replenished, so popular models and bundles can sell out.
- Drones you own are not affected. You can keep flying and updating them.
Is anything still changing?
Yes. DJI has challenged the FCC decision in federal court, and the FCC has proposed extending the rules to drones with thermal or LiDAR sensors. Neither changes what you can buy today, but we update this page when something does.
Should you buy a DJI drone now?
If a model you want is in stock, there is no reason to wait — existing drones keep working, and waiting will not bring new DJI models to the US. If your model is sold out, see our best drones for beginners and Potensic Atom 2 review for alternatives.
Sources
- FCC Covered List
- DroneDeploy: Foreign drones and the FCC Covered List
- AeroTime: DJI sues FCC over Covered List restrictions
This page is general information, not legal advice.
FAQ
Can I still buy a DJI drone in the US?
Yes, models that received FCC authorization before the December 2025 Covered List action can still be sold. New DJI models cannot get FCC approval, so they will not be sold in the US. Stock of existing models is shrinking.
Will my DJI drone stop working?
No. The FCC action does not affect drones you already own, and you can keep flying them under the normal FAA rules.
Is it illegal to fly a DJI drone in the US?
No. Flying is regulated by the FAA, not the FCC, and the FAA rules are the same for DJI and every other brand.
What are the best DJI alternatives?
For beginners, the Potensic Atom 2 is the most popular non-DJI 4K gimbal drone under 250 g. For follow-me selfie flights, the HoverAir X1 is a simple alternative. Note that the Covered List also applies to other foreign-made drones, so check availability for any brand.