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FCCUnited StatesDrones

Do drones need FCC certification?

Updated

Short answer

Yes, and new foreign-made models now face a Covered List bar.

A consumer drone has at least one transmitter: the control link, a video downlink, Wi-Fi or Remote ID broadcast. Each needs FCC certification before the drone is imported or marketed (47 CFR 15.201(b)). On December 22, 2025 the FCC added foreign-produced uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and UAS critical components to its Covered List. Covered List equipment cannot receive new equipment authorizations, so a new foreign-made drone model generally cannot be certified unless an exception applies.

What changes the answer

  • Already authorized models. The FCC said the December 2025 action does not prohibit the import, sale or use of drone models it had already authorized. Check the exact FCC ID and model against the grant.
  • Exceptions. Under a January 2026 Department of War determination, UAS and components on the Blue UAS Cleared List, those that qualify as domestic end products under the Buy American standard, and, from March 2026, those granted Conditional Approval are excepted until January 1, 2027. Requests go to drones@fcc.gov.
  • Toy drones. Small toy drones still have radios that need certification. The UAS entry is not written with a size floor, so confirm with the FCC or counsel whether a toy model is in scope. Toys for children 12 and under also need CPSC testing and a Children's Product Certificate.
  • Spare parts and modules. Flight controllers, radios, cameras and batteries can be UAS critical components under the Covered List entry. Ask counsel before importing components for assembly.

What to do

  1. Look up the drone's FCC ID in the FCC equipment authorization database and confirm the grant date is before the Covered List entry, or that an exception covers it.
  2. For a new model, confirm eligibility for an exception before you pay a lab. A TCB cannot grant authorization for Covered List equipment.
  3. Keep the grant, the test reports and any Conditional Approval letter with your import records.
  4. Label the drone with its FCC ID under 47 CFR 2.925 and the Part 15 statement under 15.19.
  5. FAA rules are separate: most drones flown in U.S. airspace must meet Remote ID requirements in 14 CFR part 89.
HTS lines for consumer drones
  • 8806.21.00.00

    8806: Unmanned aircraft

    Other, for remote-controlled flight only / With maximum take-off weight not more than 250 g

    Remote-controlled unmanned aircraft with a maximum take-off weight of 250 g or less.

    General rate
    Free
  • 8806.22.00.00

    8806: Unmanned aircraft

    Other, for remote-controlled flight only / With maximum take-off weight more than 250 g but not more than 7 kg

    Remote-controlled unmanned aircraft over 250 g up to 7 kg.

    General rate
    Free

Next steps

Frequently asked questions

Can I still sell a drone model that was approved before December 2025?
In general yes. The FCC stated that the Covered List addition does not prohibit the import, sale or use of existing models it previously authorized. Rules adopted in late 2025 give the FCC a process to limit existing grants after notice and comment, so watch for updates.
Does the Covered List apply to U.S.-made drones?
The entry covers foreign-produced UAS and UAS critical components. A drone assembled in the U.S. from foreign critical components may still be affected, which is why the domestic end product exception matters.
Is a drone under 250 g exempt from FCC rules?
No. The 250 g threshold matters for FAA registration, not for the FCC. Its radios need certification at any weight.

Sources

  1. Fact sheet: foreign-produced UAS on the Covered List and the January 2026 exceptions, Federal Communications Commission
  2. Covered List update for UAS and Conditional Approvals, March 18, 2026, Federal Communications Commission
  3. 47 CFR 15.201, Equipment authorization requirement for intentional radiators, eCFR, National Archives
  4. 14 CFR part 89, Remote identification of unmanned aircraft, eCFR, National Archives

This is general information drawn from the official sources linked above. It is not legal advice. Rules change and often turn on the facts of your product, so confirm your test plan with an accredited lab and your obligations with qualified counsel before you import or sell.