DJI drones are hard to find in the US for several overlapping reasons. Since December 22, 2025, new DJI models can't get FCC authorization, so they can't be sold here. Before that, DJI had already held back US launches of the Mini 5 Pro and Mavic 4 Pro, citing import difficulties and tariffs. Since September 3, 2026, imported drones also carry new tariffs. Models authorized before the cutoff are still legal to sell, but stock is thin and prices are higher.
The reasons, in order
1. Customs holds (2024 to 2025). US Customs and Border Protection detained some DJI shipments, which emptied shelves for months even for models with FCC approval.
2. DJI skipped US launches. The Mini 5 Pro and Mavic 4 Pro launched worldwide in 2025 but not officially in the US. DJI said they weren't being imported here. Units that reach US dealers come through other channels, so stock is limited and irregular.
3. The FCC Covered List (December 22, 2025). The FCC added foreign-made drones and DJI's communications equipment to its Covered List. New models can't get FCC authorization, so drones like the Neo 3 can't be sold in the US at all. See which DJI products are affected.
4. Tariffs (September 3, 2026). A Section 232 tariff added 25% to most small imported drones and 100% to thermal drones and drones over 25 kg. That raises prices and makes dealers more cautious with inventory.
Is DJI banned, then?
Not for drones authorized before the cutoff. They're legal to sell, buy, own and fly, and the FCC allows updates for them through January 1, 2029. If you own one, nothing changes for you. See is DJI banned in the US and will the ban affect drones you own.
What you can still buy
As an authorized DJI dealer, we sell models that were FCC-authorized before the cutoff, including:
- DJI Mini 4 Pro: 249 g, omnidirectional obstacle sensing, our best seller.
- DJI Mini 5 Pro: 1-inch sensor at 249 g, in limited stock.
- DJI Neo: 135 g palm-launch drone.
Stock changes week to week. Product pages show current availability.
Tips for buying now
- Buy from an authorized dealer. Grey-market drones may lack US warranty support, and DJI says Care Refresh must be bought in the same country or region as the drone. See where to buy DJI drones.
- Watch for scams. Marketplace listings well below normal prices for scarce models are a red flag.
- Pick the model that's in stock if two fit your needs. Our drone finder and compare tool help.
- Buy spare batteries now. Parts face the same tariffs.
Will stock come back?
It depends on the FCC and the courts. DJI is challenging the Covered List decision in the Ninth Circuit, and the FCC is considering further limits on some models. We follow it on our DJI ban timeline.
Current as of October 2026. This is general information, not legal advice.
Can't find what you want? Contact us and we'll check incoming stock.
Related guides
- Flying a drone in Europe as a US tourist: EU rules and operator registration
- Drone insurance for flying in Europe (what US pilots need)
- Drone laws in Argentina: flying there as a US tourist
- Drone laws in Aruba: flying there as a US tourist
- Drone laws in Australia: flying there as a US tourist
- Drone laws in Austria: flying there as a US tourist
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