As of October 2026, anyone flying a drone or model aircraft weighing 100g or more in the UK needs a Flyer ID. The person responsible for the aircraft also needs an Operator ID if it weighs 250g or more, or weighs 100g or more and has a camera. The Flyer ID threshold dropped from 250g to 100g on 1 January 2026.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) runs both schemes. This page gives general information based on the CAA's guidance and the March 2026 edition of the Drone and Model Aircraft Code. It is not legal advice, so check the CAA website for your exact aircraft before you fly.
Who needs which ID
The two IDs do different jobs. A Flyer ID shows that the person at the controls has passed the CAA's online theory test. An Operator ID registers the person or organisation responsible for the aircraft, and it is the one you label on the drone.
| Aircraft | Flyer ID | Operator ID |
|---|---|---|
| 250g to under 25kg (UK1 to UK4, or no class mark) | Required | Required |
| 100g to under 250g, with a camera | Required | Required |
| 100g to under 250g, no camera | Required | Optional |
| Under 100g | Recommended | Optional |
The camera test matters for lightweight drones. Almost every small consumer drone has a camera, so in practice the owner of a typical sub-250g model needs both IDs. The sub-250g explainer covers the trade-offs of that weight class.
What changed on 1 January 2026
Three things changed at the start of 2026. The Flyer ID threshold fell to 100g, which the CAA estimated could affect over 500,000 more drone users. New drones placed on the market must carry a UK class mark (UK0 to UK6). And Remote ID began to apply to some newly marked drones. Drones bought before 2026 are unlikely to have a class mark, and you fly them under the rules for their weight.
The class mark system has its own page: UK drone class marks explained. Remote ID is covered in Remote ID for UK drones.
Getting, labelling and renewing your IDs
- Most people get both IDs in one go through the CAA's Flyer ID service. There are separate routes for an Operator ID only, for a child under 13, and for organisations.
- A Flyer ID is valid for five years. Tests passed under the previous regulations are valid for three years.
- An Operator ID must be renewed every year, and your registration details kept up to date.
- Label the Operator ID (not the Flyer ID) on the main body of every aircraft, in block capitals taller than 3mm. It must be visible or accessible without tools, and secure.
- The CAA recommends carrying a copy of your Flyer ID when you fly.
- Overseas qualifications are not recognised, so visitors flying in the UK need UK IDs. Some model aircraft and drone associations can issue Flyer IDs to their members.
The Flyer ID test is free. The CAA's pages did not state the Operator ID fee in the sections reviewed, so check the current charge on the registration page before you start.
Age rules and borrowed drones
You must be 18 or over to hold an Operator ID. If a child owns a drone, a parent or guardian registers as the operator, and the child can still fly with their own Flyer ID. Children under 13 must take the Flyer ID test with a parent or guardian present, while those aged 13 to 17 can sit it alone. The CAA also says children under 12 must be supervised by someone aged 16 or over when flying.
If you let someone else fly your drone, you are responsible for checking that they hold the right competence certificate. Lending a drone to a friend without a Flyer ID is a breach on your side too.
Preparing for the Flyer ID test
The CAA says you need to know the Drone and Model Aircraft Code to pass the Flyer ID test, and it links to a test preparation page from the registration service. Read the Code first, then take the test. Because the Code was updated in March 2026, make sure you are studying the current edition rather than an older PDF or a copy on another site.
Passing gives you a Flyer ID that you can show if asked. The CAA recommends keeping a copy with you whenever you fly, for example as a screenshot on your phone, so you can show it on request.
Penalties for getting it wrong
The CAA says breaking the rules can result in fines, and the most serious cases can result in prison. Flying without the required IDs is against the law. Serious incidents and near misses, including anything that could endanger people, property or aircraft, must be reported to the CAA, and you can report anonymously if you prefer.
When you do not need an ID
No Flyer ID or Operator ID is needed for flying only indoors, or where the aircraft cannot escape, for example inside a closed netted area. Outdoors, there is no hobby exemption: the CAA states that flying without the required IDs is against the law and can lead to fines.
The ID rules follow the aircraft's weight and camera, not the age of the drone. A second-hand model bought today still needs its new owner to register as operator and label the drone with their own Operator ID.
Once the IDs are sorted, the next question is where you can actually fly. See where you can fly a drone in the UK, and read drone insurance in the UK for the cover side.
Frequently asked questions
At what weight do I need a Flyer ID?
At 100g or more, since the threshold fell from 250g on 1 January 2026. Under 100g it is recommended rather than required.
Do I need an Operator ID for a small camera drone?
Yes, if it weighs 100g or more and has a camera, and also for any drone of 250g or more. Without a camera, a drone of 100g to under 250g makes it optional.
Where does the Operator ID go on the drone?
On the main body, in block capitals taller than 3mm, visible or accessible without tools and secure. The Flyer ID is not labelled on the aircraft.
Can my child fly my drone?
They can fly with their own Flyer ID, but an adult must hold the Operator ID. The CAA also says children under 12 must be supervised by someone aged 16 or over.