[quote author=ElektroFreak link=1226258600/0#10 date=1226334942]In the US lasers over 5mW are illegal EXCEPT for lasers which are not part of a finished product. This includes "lab style" modules of all power levels, bare laser diodes, laser diode modules (Aixiz modules), HeNe lasers, Ion lasers etc... These are called OEM lasers-all of these can be legally owned in the US - of ANY power level - unless they are incorperated into some finished product (like a pointer, stage laser system, etc.). If they are used in a product, then an FDA "operating variance" is required in order to use them. In reality you could own a 20-Watt laser pointer (if only they made one) all day long, you just can't legally turn it on.
Unfortunately, laser pointers fall under the "finished product" heading and are limited to 5mW legally. There are some outlets that supply laser pointers over 5mW to US customers, but they are still illegal to operate without a variance.
Allowing the possession of OEM lasers allows educational users, laboratories, and responsible hobbyists to use lasers for research, experimentation, holography and much more. Not to mention the fact that they're more fun. If your wallet's big enough, you could own a laser big enough to bounce light off the moon (no kidding!). Always be safe, though..