FCC Crackdown: Should You Still Buy a DJI Drone?

Key Takeaways

• December 23, 2025 deadline approaching: If no federal agency completes a mandated security review of DJI by December 23, 2025, the company will automatically be added to the FCC's Covered List, blocking new drone imports
• Current drones are safe to use: The FCC's retroactive ban would not involve taking away people's drones, and existing models remain legal to fly
• New models may be blocked: Once on the Covered List, DJI won't be able to import new drone models into the U.S.
• Firmware and support concerns: Post-ban, software updates, replacement parts, and technical support may become limited or unavailable
• Your existing investment is protected: If you already own a DJI drone, you can continue using it legally

The drone industry is facing significant regulatory uncertainty as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) expands its authority over foreign technology deemed a national security risk. For millions of American consumers who rely on DJI drones—the world's most popular consumer drone brand—the question isn't just about policy. It's about whether that new drone purchase is a smart investment or a potential paperweight.

Understanding the FCC Crackdown

In late October 2025, the FCC voted unanimously to grant itself authority to retroactively ban electronic devices that were already cleared for sale if their makers are later deemed national security risks. While this decision doesn't specifically name DJI, the timing and implications are clear.

The regulatory pressure stems from the National Defense Authorization Act passed in late 2024, which requires a U.S. national security agency to complete a formal security review of DJI by December 23, 2025. Here's the critical part: if no agency steps up to conduct this audit, DJI automatically lands on the FCC's Covered List—no evidence required, no appeals allowed.

As of now, no U.S. agency has stepped forward to start this review process, even though the deadline is less than a month away. DJI has repeatedly expressed willingness to participate in a transparent audit, but the clock continues ticking.

What Does This Mean for New DJI Drone Purchases?

If you're considering buying a DJI drone right now, timing matters. DJI is not currently included on the FCC's Covered List, so existing change to the rules does not currently apply to DJI. However, after December 23, the landscape could shift dramatically.

Once added to the Covered List, DJI would face two major restrictions. 

• First, lacking FCC authorization effectively bans the devices for import and sale, meaning brand-new drone models couldn't enter the U.S. market. 
• Second, the FCC's new retroactive authority means previously approved models could potentially be removed from store shelves on a case-by-case basis.

But here's what won't change: existing models that are already FCC-certified remain fully legal to import, sell, and use. Your current DJI drone won't suddenly become illegal to fly.

The Real Concerns: Support and Updates

The most significant worry for DJI drone owners isn't legality—it's longevity. Once DJI joins the Covered List, the company may be unable to provide firmware updates, replacement parts, or technical support if those services require FCC compliance.

Think about what that means in practical terms. Your drone might work perfectly today, but what happens when you need a replacement battery, a software update for new features, or technical support for a malfunction? These everyday necessities could become difficult or impossible to obtain if DJI can't legally provide them in the U.S. market.

For professional users who rely on DJI drones for surveying, real estate photography, or inspection work, this uncertainty creates serious business risk. Even hobbyists who've invested hundreds or thousands of dollars in drones and accessories face the possibility of owning equipment with limited future support.

Should You Still Buy a DJI Drone?

The answer depends on your needs, timeline, and risk tolerance. If you've been eyeing a specific DJI model and plan to use it in the near term, purchasing before December 23 might make sense. You'll have a fully legal, FCC-authorized drone that you can continue flying regardless of future regulatory changes.

However, potential buyers should go in with eyes wide open. Consider these factors:

Short-term use: If you need a drone for a specific project or upcoming event, a DJI purchase may still be worthwhile. The technology is proven, reliable, and competitively priced.

Long-term investment: If you're planning to use this drone for years to come, the support and parts availability concerns become more significant. You might want to explore alternatives from American manufacturers, though they typically come at higher price points.

Professional applications: Businesses that depend on drones for revenue should seriously consider diversifying their equipment to include non-Chinese alternatives, even if more expensive, to ensure continuity of operations.

The Bottom Line

The FCC crackdown creates genuine uncertainty around DJI drones, but it's not an immediate crisis for existing owners or short-term buyers. Your current DJI drones will continue working, and purchasing one before the December deadline gives you a legally authorized device you can fly for the foreseeable future.

The real question is about support, updates, and parts availability after December 23. DJI controls over 90 percent of the consumer drone market, making it difficult for many users to find comparable alternatives at similar price points. But the regulatory writing is on the wall, and prudent consumers should factor that uncertainty into their purchasing decisions.

If you're comfortable accepting some risk around future support and are buying for near-term use, a DJI drone remains an excellent choice. If you need guaranteed long-term support and are willing to pay premium prices, exploring American-made alternatives might be wiser. Either way, the December 23 deadline is approaching fast, and the drone landscape in America is about to change significantly.

Get Your Free Recreational UAS Safety Certificate

Learn how to plan your flights and how to safely fly in the National Airspace System (NAS). This online course is free and, upon completion, grants you a certificate that demonstrates you have passed the Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). 

Register for the Recreational UAS Safety Test >