Registering to fly drones and model aircraft
About the Open Category and registration requirements.
What you need to do
You must take a theory test and register with the CAA before flying most drones or model aircraft outdoors in the UK.
There are two requirements and you may need to meet both:
- Pass a theory test to get a Flyer ID.
This makes sure you know how to fly safely and legally.
- Register with the CAA for an Operator ID.
This registers you as someone who is responsible for a drone or model aircraft.
Most people get their Flyer ID and Operator ID at the same time.
It is against the law to fly a drone or model aircraft without having the required IDs. You can also be fined for breaking the law when flying. In the most serious cases, you could be sent to prison.
Step-by-step guide to registering
1. Work out what IDs you need for the weight of drone or model aircraft you will fly
The requirements are different depending on the weight of your drone or model aircraft. There's more information on this page.
2. Check you meet the age requirements
There are specific rules if you're under 18 or under 13.
There are also specific rules for organisations.
3. Read the Drone and Model Aircraft Code
Knowing the Code will help you fly safely and legally.
You'll need to know the information in the Code to pass the Flyer ID test.
4. Choose the service to get the IDs you need
Register for an Operator ID and take the test to get a Flyer ID
Take the test to get a Flyer ID
Register for an Operator ID only
Get a Flyer ID for a child under 13
Read the children and parent guidance before choosing this service.
Working out what you need based on the weight of your drone or model aircraft
The requirements are based on the weight or class of your drone or model aircraft.
250g to less than 25kg, including UK1, UK2, UK3 or UK4 class
If your drone or model aircraft weighs from 250g to less than 25kg, you must get a Flyer ID and Operator ID.
If your drone or model aircraft is UK1, UK2, UK3 or UK4 class, you must get a Flyer ID and Operator ID.
100g to less than 250g, including UK0
If your drone or model aircraft weighs 100g to less than 250g, you must get a Flyer ID.
If your drone or model aircraft weighs 100g to less than 250g and has a camera, you must also get an Operator ID. If it does not have a camera, you can choose whether or not to get an Operator ID.
Less than 100g
If your drone or model aircraft weighs less than 100g, you do not have to get a Flyer ID. However, we strongly recommend you take the test to get one, as it will help you to fly safely and legally.
You can also choose whether or not to get an Operator ID.
Registration requirements for drones and model aircraft
| Weight of drone or model aircraft | Class | Flyer ID | Operator ID |
|---|---|---|---|
| 250g to less than 25kg | UK1, UK2, UK3, UK4 | Required | Required |
| 100g to less than 250g; with a camera | UK0 with a camera | Required | Required |
| 100g to less than 250g; without a camera | UK0 without a camera | Required | Optional |
| Less than 100g | Not applicable | Recommended | Optional |
Any organisation that's responsible for a drone or model aircraft must register their organisation for an Operator ID.
Find out more about using drones in your business, educational establishment or other organisation.
You do not need a Flyer ID or Operator ID if you will only fly indoors or where there is no possibility of your aircraft escaping, such as within a closed netted area.
Some model aircraft and drone associations can issue Flyer IDs for their members.
We do not recognise overseas registrations or qualifications.
You must get a Flyer ID and Operator ID from us before flying in the UK.
You must also get any further applicable qualifications or authorisations required for the type of flying you want to do.