Plan
Drone rules: USA
Last checked: October 1, 2026
Allowed with conditions
Flying is allowed, but with conditions you need to know before you travel.
Allowed, but before your first flight you need FAA registration or a Notice of Identification, the TRUST test and Remote ID.
From 250 g via FAADroneZone; visitors submit a Notice of Identification there. Without registration and Remote ID you may only fly in FAA-Recognized Identification Areas.
No nationwide requirement; individual states, parks or towns may have their own rules.
For tourists
The EU competency certificate is not valid: take the free TRUST test online before you travel. Drones are generally banned in national parks (National Park Service); in controlled airspace you need authorisation via LAANC.
Further rules
- In the USA you must register your drone with the aviation authority FAA (FAADroneZone) if it weighs 250 grams or more, and you also have to pass the free TRUST test – this explicitly also applies to foreign visitors; a German proof of competency is not recognised.
- There is no nationwide insurance requirement in the USA; however, individual states or localities may have their own rules.
- Since September 2023, most drones must have active Remote ID, which broadcasts your location during the flight.
- The maximum flight altitude is 400 feet (around 122 metres) above ground in uncontrolled airspace; for controlled airspace you need prior authorisation via LAANC.
Sources
This overview is not legal advice and not an official statement — laws change, and we cannot guarantee that every entry is fully up to date. Before your flight, please also check the official source or the local civil aviation authority.