What you need to do
You must take a theory test and register with us 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 us 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.
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 whether your drone or model aircraft weighs less than 250g, or less than 25kg. 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
Read the children and parent guidance before choosing this service.
Working out what you need based on the weight of your drone
The requirements are based on the weight of your drone or model aircraft.
250g to 25kg
If your drone or model aircraft weighs from 250g to 25kg, you must get a Flyer ID and Operator ID.
Less than 250g
If your drone or model aircraft weighs less than 250g, 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.
If your drone weighs less than 250g and has a camera, you must register for an Operator ID.
Exception for toys
If your drone or model aircraft is a toy and weighs less than 250g, you don't need a Flyer ID or an Operator ID. This applies even if it has a camera.
Working out if your drone or model aircraft is a toy
There is no standard mark to show that a drone or model aircraft is a toy.
Your drone or model aircraft is likely to be a toy if:
- the manufacturer or store you bought it from describes it as a toy
- you bought it from a toy department or retailer
- it is marked as suitable for below age 14 or a younger age group
- it was advertised or packaged to attract children
Registration requirements for drones and model aircraft
| Weight of drone or model aircraft | Flyer ID | Operator ID |
| 250g to 25kg | Required | Required |
| Less than 250g; with camera | Recommended | Required |
| Less than 250g; without camera | Recommended | Optional |
Flowchart of registration requirements
View the registration requirements as a flowchart.
Flyer ID
What it's for
The Flyer ID shows you understand how to fly safely and legally.
It allows you to do basic low-risk flying in the Open Category. You'll learn more about this when you take the test.
How to get a Flyer ID
Take our online theory test.
The test is free. It's a good idea to prepare for the test before you take it.
Flyer IDs for children under 13
Children under 13 must also pass the test to get a Flyer ID. For data protection reasons, they must take the test with their parent or guardian.
There's more information in our children and parent guidance.
How long it lasts
Your Flyer ID will be valid for five years.
You'll need to take the test again to renew it.
Operator ID
What it's for
The Operator is the person or organisation that's responsible for maintaining and managing a drone or model aircraft.
The operator usually owns the drone or model aircraft, but not always. For example, if they're the parent of a person under aged 18 who owns a drone.
Operator IDs for children under 18
You must be aged 18 or over to register for an Operator ID.
If you're under 18 and you own a drone or model aircraft, you must ask someone else to register as the Operator. You’ll still be able to fly as long as you have a Flyer ID.
Read the children and parent guidance for more information.
What the Operator is responsible for
The Operator must:
- make sure that only people with a valid Flyer ID use their drone or model aircraft, if applicable
- label their drones and model aircraft with their Operator ID
- maintain their drone and model aircraft
- make sure their drone or model aircraft is flown safely and legally
You can use the same Operator ID for all your drones and model aircraft.
If you’re responsible for drones or model aircraft, but will not fly them you can register as an operator only, without getting a Flyer ID.
How to get it
Register with us.
Most people get their Flyer ID and Operator ID at the same time.
Cost of Operator ID
£11.79 per year.
Your Operator ID will be valid for 1 year.
Organisations that operate drones or model aircraft
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.
Flying indoors
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.
Members of model aircraft and drone associations
Some model aircraft and drone associations can issue Flyer IDs for their members.
Overseas qualifications and registrations
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.