For most pilots, the flying rules didn't change in 2026: the 400 ft limit, TRUST, registration, Remote ID and Part 107 all work the same as in 2025. What changed is which drones can be sold and what they cost. The FCC stopped authorizing new foreign-made drones, extended updates for existing ones through 2029, and tariffs on imported drones began in September. The FAA's BVLOS rule (Part 108) is still pending.
January 2026
- Covered List exceptions (Jan 7). After the December 22, 2025 listing of foreign-made drones, the FCC exempted Blue UAS cleared drones and US-made domestic end products until January 1, 2027.
- Firmware waiver (Jan 21). The FCC let previously authorized drones keep getting software and firmware updates until January 1, 2027.
- Part 108 comments reopened. The FAA reopened comments on its proposed BVLOS rule to address electronic conspicuity and right-of-way.
Spring and summer 2026
- DJI's lawsuit (February). DJI asked the Ninth Circuit to set aside the FCC's listing. The case is pending.
- Longer update waiver (May). The FCC extended firmware and software updates for previously authorized drones to January 1, 2029.
- Toy drone exemption (June 15). Simple toy drones of 150 g or less, with no camera or GPS, came off the Covered List.
- "Military-grade" proposal (July 21). The FCC asked whether to stop further import and sale of previously authorized foreign drones with thermal or LiDAR sensors, spray systems, docks, swarm capability, or a weight of 55 lb or more. Comments closed September 2. Not adopted yet.
- Authorization rule (July 22). Tighter FCC equipment authorization rules for Covered List companies take effect October 13, 2026.
Tariffs (September 3, 2026)
A Section 232 proclamation put tariffs on imported drones and components: 25% for most smaller drones and 100% for drones over 25 kg, thermal drones, docks and certain critical components. Lower rates apply to qualifying drones from some allied countries, and some component tariffs start February 2027.
Part 108: BVLOS still pending
The FAA proposed Part 108 in August 2025 to allow routine beyond-visual-line-of-sight flights for things like delivery, inspection and agriculture. The final rule went to the White House for review on July 10, 2026, and hadn't been published as of early October. Until it is, BVLOS still needs a waiver or exemption. See flying beyond line of sight.
What is the Drone Dominance program?
It's a Department of War (Pentagon) program announced in late 2025 to buy small military drones from US makers at scale: about $1 billion over roughly two years, with plans for more than 200,000 drones by 2027. It's about military procurement. It doesn't change the rules for hobby or Part 107 pilots.
What stayed the same
- Recreational pilots: free TRUST test, 400 ft limit, LAANC near airports.
- Registration: $5 for 3 years for drones of 250 g or more, and every Part 107 drone. See FAA registration.
- Remote ID for every drone that must be registered. See Remote ID explained.
- Part 107: knowledge test at age 16, free recurrent training every 24 months.
What to do
- Keep your drone and app updated.
- Buy spare batteries and parts before prices rise further.
- Watch the FCC's military-grade decision if you fly thermal or ag drones.
More detail on the DJI side: DJI ban timeline.
Rules current as of October 2026. This is general information, not legal advice.
Full rule overview: US drone laws explained.
Related guides
- Drone insurance for flying in Europe (what US pilots need)
- Best drone accessories for new pilots (DJI Mini and more)
- DJI Neo vs Neo 2: what's new, and can you buy it in the US?
- Drone laws in New Zealand: flying there as a US tourist
- Are drone jammers legal in the US?
- Can you fly a drone at night? US rules and tips
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