Will DJI Drones Be Banned in the US? A Clear Look at the Current Situation

✅ Current Status: DJI Drones Are Not Banned (Yet)

As of August 2025, DJI drones are still legal in the United States. You can buy, sell, and operate DJI drones without any official federal ban. However, concerns are growing as regulatory developments signal a possible ban later this year.

⚖️ Why People Are Asking: Will DJI Drones Be Banned in the US?

The growing concern stems from Section 1709 of the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This law requires a national security review of drone manufacturers based in China—like DJI—by December 23, 2025.

If that review is not completed by the deadline, DJI drones could automatically be placed on the FCC’s “Covered List,” effectively banning the import, sale, and approval of new DJI drones in the U.S.

🚩 Red Flags Indicating a Possible Ban

Several warning signs suggest that DJI could face restrictions soon:

  • No agency has been assigned to complete the required review.

  • DJI drones are already facing major import delays and retail shortages.

  • Some of DJI’s newest products are not officially available in the U.S., hinting at regulatory pressure.

Even without a formal ban, market access is being restricted.

🗣 DJI’s Response to the Threat

DJI has urged U.S. authorities to begin the mandated audit and has expressed its full cooperation. The company has also encouraged drone users—especially professionals in emergency response, agriculture, and media—to voice their support for a fair review process.

Many U.S. drone users have joined advocacy efforts, warning that a ban could severely impact safety, productivity, and innovation across multiple sectors.

🚨 What Happens If the Audit Isn’t Done by December 23, 2025?

If no government agency completes the required security review by the deadline, several consequences will follow:

  • DJI will be placed on the FCC Covered List.

  • New DJI drones will be banned from import and sale in the U.S.

  • DJI may no longer receive FCC approvals, stopping future launches.

  • Software updates, technical support, and repairs could be affected.

  • Public agencies and commercial users may have to find alternatives quickly.

👥 Who Would Be Affected by a DJI Ban?

A DJI drone ban would cause disruption across many industries:

  • Public safety departments using DJI for rescue, firefighting, and policing

  • Farmers who rely on drone imaging for crop monitoring

  • Photographers, real estate agents, and filmmakers using DJI for aerial content

  • Small businesses who cannot easily afford high-priced alternatives

  • The entire U.S. drone industry, which depends heavily on DJI’s technology

✅ So, Will DJI Drones Be Banned in the US?

For now, the answer is no. DJI drones are still legal in the U.S.
But if a national security review isn’t completed by December 23, 2025, a ban on new DJI drones is highly likely. This would severely limit their availability and legality for future use.

🔑 What You Should Do Now

  • Stay updated on NDAA developments and agency actions.

  • Purchase sooner if you’re planning to buy a DJI drone—availability is already limited.

  • Engage in advocacy if you’re affected by this issue.

  • Start researching alternatives, especially if you use DJI professionally.

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Technology,

Last Update: August 5, 2025

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