Taking a Drone to the USA: A Guide for UK Travellers

The USA is one of the most popular destinations for UK drone pilots, with spectacular scenery from national parks to coastlines. But the country has its own aviation authority, the FAA, and its rules are entirely separate from the UK and EU. This guide outlines what to prepare, as of May 2026. Always confirm current requirements on the FAA's official website before you go.

The FAA System

Drone flying in the USA is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration. Recreational flyers follow a specific set of rules, while commercial operations require a separate certification. Your UK qualifications and Operator ID do not apply in the USA, so plan ahead.

Registration

Most drones above a small weight threshold must be registered with the FAA before flying. Registration is done online through the official FAA DroneZone service. Because foreign-visitor registration can have particular steps, the FAA website is the authoritative source for exactly what you need to do as a UK traveller.

The Recreational Knowledge Test

Recreational flyers in the USA are generally required to pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST), a free online test, and carry proof of completion. It is straightforward but mandatory, so complete it before you fly.

Where You Can and Cannot Fly

• National Parks: launching and landing drones is generally prohibited in US National Parks.
• Airspace: controlled airspace near airports requires authorisation, often via the LAANC system.
• Cities and crowds: many cities and venues restrict drones.

Always check the airspace with an FAA-recognised app before each flight.

Lithium Batteries: The Key Rules

Drone batteries are lithium-ion, and airlines follow IATA dangerous-goods rules for them. As of May 2026, the most important point is this: spare (loose) lithium batteries must travel in your carry-on cabin baggage, never in checked luggage. This is a fire-safety rule applied almost universally.

The watt-hour (Wh) rating printed on the battery determines what is allowed:

• Under 100Wh: generally permitted in carry-on without special approval. Most consumer drone batteries (for example typical sub-250g or Mavic-class packs) fall under 100Wh, but always read the printed rating.
• 100Wh to 160Wh: generally needs prior airline approval, and most carriers limit you to two spare batteries.
• Over 160Wh: generally not permitted on passenger aircraft at all.

Protect each spare battery against short circuits by keeping it in its original packaging, a battery bag, or with the terminals taped. Some pilots discharge packs to a "storage" level before flying. Check your specific airline, as individual limits on quantity vary.

Customs and Arrival

A personal-use camera drone is normally fine to bring in as a visitor, but declare items honestly if asked. Carry your batteries in your cabin bag as covered above.

Prepare Before You Travel

MmowW's drone compliance tool covers the UK and multiple destination countries, so you can check the rules for where you're flying before you pack. You can try it free.

The USA offers stunning flying, but only if you arrive prepared. Register with the FAA, pass TRUST, avoid National Parks and controlled airspace, and verify everything on official FAA sources before you go.