U.S. Drone Flight Regulations (FAA-Issued)

Registration & License Requirements

This section clarifies mandatory registration and certification based on flight purpose (recreational vs. commercial).


Flight Type Drone Weight Range Registration Requirement Additional Requirement
Recreational (Non-Commercial) ＜0.55 lbs Not required Must pass the online TRUST test
Recreational (Non-Commercial) 0.55 lbs – 55 lbs Mandatory (FAA registration) None
Commercial All weights Mandatory (FAA registration) Operator must hold FAA Part 107 License

Core Flight Rules

All drone operations must comply with the following fundamental rules to ensure safety.


  1. Visual Line of Sight (VLOS)

    Drones must stay within the pilot’s direct, unobstructed line of sight at all times.
  2. Altitude Limit

    Maximum flight altitude: 400 feet (≈120 meters) above ground level.
  3. Permitted Flight Times

    Only allowed during daytime (sunrise to sunset) or dusk/dawn (low-light conditions).
  4. Airport & Aircraft Distance

    Maintain a minimum distance of 5 kilometers from airports; avoid approaching any manned aircraft.
  5. Crowd & Event Restrictions

    No flying over crowds, sports venues, or large-scale gatherings (e.g., concerts, festivals).
  6. Operator Fitness

    Flying is prohibited if under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any impairing substances.
  7. Emergency Area Ban

    No operations in areas with active emergencies (e.g., wildfires, accident sites) or ongoing rescue work.

Designated No-Fly Zones

Drones are strictly prohibited in the following areas, with no exceptions unless special FAA authorization is obtained.


  • National Parks

    All U.S. national parks (e.g., Yellowstone, Yosemite) are full no-fly zones.
  • Airport Vicinities

    Airports and their surrounding buffer zones are restricted to prevent interference with commercial flights.
  • Government & Sensitive Zones
    • Radius around Washington, D.C. (U.S. capital)
    • Reagan National Airport and its area.
    • Areas near federal government facilities (e.g., military bases, government buildings).
  • Sports Venues (During Events)

    Flying over stadiums or arenas is banned when games, matches, or events are in progress.
  • Emergency Response Areas

    Fire scenes, flood zones, or locations with active emergency services (e.g., ambulance, police response) are off-limits.