30. The person or organisation that’s responsible for a drone or model aircraft that requires an Operator ID must register to get an Operator ID
You must be over 18 to register as an operator. If you’re under 18, you’ll need to ask a parent or guardian to register for an Operator ID.
Points 31 to 36 set out what you’re responsible for if you’re an operator.
31. Label all your drones or model aircraft with your Operator ID
You must label your Operator ID on every drone or model aircraft you’re responsible for.
You can use the same Operator ID for all your drones and model aircraft.
Always label with your Operator ID, not your Flyer ID.
How to label your drone or model aircraft
Your Operator ID must be:
- visible from the outside, or within a compartment that can easily be accessed without using a tool
- clear and in block capitals taller than 3mm
- secure and safe from damage
- on the main body of the aircraft
32. Fly with Remote ID switched on when flying a UK1, UK2 or UK3 class drone or model aircraft
A Remote ID system transmits the identity and location of your drone or model aircraft when in-flight. This information can be received by anyone using a Remote ID receiver.
Every UK1, UK2 and UK3 class drone or model aircraft is fitted with a Remote ID function. From 1 January 2026, you must add your Remote ID and switch on the Remote ID function before flying a UK1, UK2 or UK3 class drone or model aircraft.
Adding your Remote ID to your drone or model aircraft
We provide every operator with a Remote ID.
You can view your Remote ID in My registration (opens in a new tab).
Check your drone or model aircraft manual for instructions on how to add and switch on Remote ID.
If you don’t comply with Remote ID requirements, you may face prosecution.
33. Make sure that anyone flying your drone or model aircraft has the right competence certificate, such as a valid Flyer ID
You can do this at the check someone’s registration status service (opens in a new tab).
If you are the operator of a drone or model aircraft that is being flown by someone who does not hold the right competence certificate, you may be liable to prosecution.
34. Set out what you expect from anyone who’ll fly your drone or model aircraft and what you’ll be responsible for yourself
If anyone else will fly a drone or model aircraft you’re responsible for, you must tell them:
- to fly safely and follow this Code when they fly
- to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for flying
- what you’ll be responsible for, such as keeping any built-in software up to date
- what you expect them to do, especially to do with flying and maintaining your aircraft
If several people will fly, such as in a business, club or school, consider writing this information down and making it available somewhere that everyone can easily access it.
35. Maintain your drone or model aircraft so that it’s safe to fly
This includes following the manufacturer’s instructions on maintenance and keeping any built-in software (firmware) up to date.
36. Renew your Operator ID every year
It is a legal requirement to keep your Operator ID registration details up to date.