Sign in
Sign up
FCC · UAS · Consumer Focus
FCC UAS Rules Update — Consumer FAQ
This page summarizes the update and answers common consumer questions.
Regulatory update
On December 22, 2025, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) updated its Covered List to include foreign-produced uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and certain UAS critical components. Items added to the Covered List are generally ineligible for new FCC equipment authorizations.
On January 7, 2026, the FCC issued a clarification establishing two limited, temporary exceptions, effective through January 1, 2027: (1) UAS and UAS critical components included on the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) Blue UAS Cleared List; and (2) UAS and UAS critical components qualifying as domestic end products under Buy American requirements.
These updates address equipment authorization and supply-chain oversight for future UAS products.
FAQ topics
Does this affect drones that are already registered or activated?
Will drones become more expensive — can I still buy affordable models?
How can I make a safer purchase in an uncertain environment?
Frequently asked questions
Will my drone suddenly stop working one day?
No.
The FCC updates do not describe requirements to disable consumer drones that were previously authorized and sold.
This concern is common, and it is usually not about flying itself. It is about long-term usability — for example, whether an app update could affect connectivity, whether activation could be blocked, or whether product support could disappear unexpectedly.
Based on publicly available FCC documents, the current focus is on whether certain categories of equipment may receive new FCC equipment authorizations going forward.
In short, the updates address how future products enter the market, not how existing consumer drones are used.
Does this affect drones that are already registered or activated?
No.
The FCC updates do not introduce requirements to deactivate or disable consumer drones that were previously authorized.
Registration, activation, and ongoing use of consumer drones are not addressed in the updated Covered List rules.
The updates focus on equipment authorization for future market entry, rather than operational status of existing products.
Is this rule related to flight restrictions or Remote ID?
No.
The FCC updates are not related to flight restrictions or Remote ID requirements.
Flight rules, airspace access, and Remote ID are governed by the FAA and applicable local regulations.
The FCC’s role in this update is limited to equipment authorization and supply-chain oversight.
Does this apply to hobby drones under 250g?
Yes, in a limited way.
FCC equipment authorization applies regardless of drone weight.
Weight-based rules such as registration thresholds and Remote ID exemptions are FAA-related topics.
The FCC update concerns the wireless equipment used in drones, not how or where lighter drones may be flown.
Will firmware or app updates be restricted in the future?
Not directly.
The FCC updates do not describe consumer restrictions on firmware or app updates.
Software support typically depends on manufacturer policies, product lifecycle decisions, and compatibility with newer operating systems.
The FCC rules focus on authorization of hardware, not on controlling consumer software updates.
Will drones become more expensive — can I still buy affordable models?
Not necessarily.
The FCC updates do not set prices or regulate retail costs.
Regulatory changes may influence how quickly new products reach the market, but they do not directly mandate price increases.
In practice, established models often remain available longer, which can help maintain price stability.
Will retailers be required to stop selling certain drones?
Not automatically.
The FCC updates do not mandate immediate removal of previously authorized products from retail.
Retail availability depends on authorization status, supply pathways, and individual retailer policies.
Any changes would likely occur gradually and vary by model.
What about batteries, spare parts, and long-term support?
Existing products are not required to lose parts support.
Long-term ownership typically depends on battery availability, accessories, and whether companion apps continue to work on newer devices.
Models with an established sales history generally offer more predictable long-term support.
Are used or refurbished drones affected?
No.
The FCC updates do not address secondary or resale markets for previously authorized drones.
The focus remains on authorization of future products entering the market.
How can I make a safer purchase in an uncertain environment?
Focus on stability, not novelty.
Choose mature models with a proven track record rather than newly released hardware.
Look for clear compliance information, widely available accessories, and a consistent app update history.
In general, long-term support matters more than short-term feature changes.
What about privacy and data?
Most consumer drones do not require continuous cloud connectivity to fly.
Photos, video storage, and data sharing depend on app settings and user choices.
Reviewing app permissions and limiting non-essential syncing remain effective ways to manage data exposure.
This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For flight rules and operational requirements, consult the FAA and applicable local regulations.
COMMENTS