Country guide · Federal Aviation Administration
Drone rules in United States
Official source re-checked 2026-06-12
Where can I fly?
Official B4UFLY page (FAA)
Check the official zone information before every flight — local no-fly zones are not covered by the national rules below.
Registration
Under 250 gNot required
No registration required for recreational use under 250g. Note: if flying commercially under Part 107, registration is required regardless of drone weight.
250 g and aboveRequired — $5 fee
FAA registration required, valid 3 years
Pilot test / certificate
Under 250 gRequired — TRUST (The Recreational UAS Safety Test)
Free online test, no expiry
250 g and aboveRequired — TRUST (The Recreational UAS Safety Test)
Free online test, no expiry
Marking & altitude
Drone marking
Required from 250 g — FAA registration number must be marked on the drone in a location accessible without tools
Max altitude: 122 m
400 feet AGL (approximately 122m); lower near airports and controlled airspace
Key restrictions
- Check FAA airspace tools or the B4UFLY app before every flight: https://www.faa.gov/uas/getting_started
- Use LAANC for controlled airspace authorization near airports
- Local municipalities may impose additional restrictions beyond federal rules
- Never fly near emergency response efforts, manned aircraft, or stadiums during events
- Remote ID required for drones manufactured on or after 16 September 2022; operator compliance enforced from 16 March 2024
Official apps
B4UFLY via FAA-approved provider Aloft Air Aware — Aloft is one of five FAA-approved B4UFLY providers, not the FAA's own app.
Official resources
This is general information, not legal advice. Rules change — always verify with the Federal Aviation Administration before flying. FlyCheck covers national rules only; local restrictions (airports, parks, cities) also apply.