Remote ID (RID) enables an in-flight drone to provide identification and location information that can be received by other parties.
From 1 January 2026, there is a legal requirement for operators to fly some drones with Direct RID enabled, depending on their class mark.
Direct Remote ID is a system that allows a drone to broadcast its identification and location information directly from the drone itself without needing an internet connection. This info can be picked up by nearby devices like smartphones using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
Project to define and deliver RID
The implementation of RID was considered as part of a public consultation run in November 2023.
We published CAP3105 and Opinion and Instruction Document which outlines all the recommendations made to by us to the Department for Transport (DfT) following the above consultation.
These recommendations were accepted by DfT and were included in a statutory instrument. Requirements within this instrument started to come into force on 1 January 2026.
In respect of Direct RID, they include integration with drone registration – so drones must be linked to operator registration, enabling traceability by law enforcement and aviation authorities – and a phased approach to mandating Direct RID for both drone operators and manufacturers, to ensure that users have adequate time to adjust to these changes:
- From 1 January 2026, Direct RID requirements will been in force for UK1, UK2, UK3, UK5 and UK6 drones.
- Following a 2-year transitional period, from 1 January 2028, Direct RID requirements will come into force for:
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- UK0 UAS weighing 100g or more with a camera
- Model Aircraft (e.g. UK4 UAS) unless exempted
- Privately built UAS weighing 100g or more with a camera
- Legacy UAS (i.e. those not within the scope of UK class marking) weighing 100g or more with a camera
We maintain the view that Hybrid RID is the preferred long-term solution for the UK, with Direct RID being an interim solution.
Hybrid RID combines both Direct RID and Networked RID. Networked RID sends the information through the internet to a central service accessible by authorised users, requiring a constant internet connection. Hybrid Remote ID would offer the benefits of broadcasting locally while also transmitting via the internet, offering greater flexibility and redundancy for tracking and compliance.
How to prepare tor RID requirements
- Access further updates on the RID page on our website
- Subscribe to CAA SkyWise alerts for regulatory changes
- Keep your drone firmware updated
- Use CAA-registered drones and stay compliant with Flyer/Operator IDs
We have published a Remote ID factsheet with more background information