All new models of drone and model aircraft sold from 1 January 2026 must have a UK class mark – from UK0 class to UK6 class. Legacy models can be sold without a class mark until 1 January 2028.
The class mark helps you know what you can do with your drone or model aircraft and whether you need a Flyer ID and Operator ID.
What the class mark means
Drones and model aircraft must meet specific requirements before they can be given a class mark. The requirements cover factors such as weight, technical functions and safety features.
Drones and model aircraft sold or distributed before 1 January 2026
If you got your drone or model aircraft before 1 January 2026, it's unlikely to have a UK class mark. You can still fly it, but you must follow the regulations based on the weight of your drone or model aircraft.
Checking if your drone or model aircraft has a UK class mark
Look for a UK class mark label on your drone or model aircraft.
What you can do with your drone or model aircraft based on its class mark or weight
The table shows the category you can fly in according to the class or weight of your drone or model aircraft.
| UK class mark | Weight | Category |
| UK0 | Less than 250g | Open Over People (A1) |
| UK1 | Less than 900g | Open Over People (A1) |
| UK2 | Less than 4kg |
Open Near People (A2) (you must get a further certificate) |
| UK3 | Less than 25kg | Open Far From People (A3) |
| UK4 | Less than 25kg | Open Far From People (A3) |
| UK5 | Less than 25kg | Specific Category |
| UK6 | Less than 25kg | Specific Category |
UK5 and UK6 class drones
If you want to fly UK5/C5 or UK6/C6 class drones, you must get authorisation from the CAA (opens in a new tab).
European C class marks
If your drone or model aircraft has a C class mark on it, the manufacturer has declared that it meets the European class standards.
Until 31 December 2027, you can fly a C class aircraft as if it is the corresponding UK class. For example, you can fly a C1 class drone as if it is a UK1 class drone.
