The UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has restructured how people must prepare to fly drones and model aircraft outdoors, with new requirements coming into force on January 1, 2026. These changes are designed to raise safety awareness and ensure accountability among drone pilots as recreational and commercial use grows.
What the Rules Are
Under the updated framework, anyone flying most drones or model aircraft outdoors must pass an online theory test to obtain a Flyer ID before they fly. As the CAA explains, you “must take a theory test and register with the CAA before flying most drones or model aircraft outdoors in the UK.”
The Flyer ID is earned by successfully completing the CAA’s free online test. According to the official guidance, the CAA test has 40 multiple-choice questions and a pass mark of 30. Once earned, the Flyer ID is valid for five years and must be renewed by re-taking the theory test. The CAA states, “You must pass the theory test to renew your Flyer ID every five years.”
In addition to the Flyer ID, pilots must register for an Operator ID if they own or are responsible for a drone. The CAA guidance notes that an Operator ID “registers you as someone who is responsible for a drone or model aircraft” and typically lasts one year.
Who Must Comply
The specific requirements depend on aircraft weight and features:
• For drones and model aircraft 250g to less than 25kg, both a Flyer ID and Operator ID are required. CAA
• For 100g to less than 250g, a Flyer ID is required. If the aircraft has a camera, an Operator ID is also required. CAA
• For drones less than 100g, Flyer and Operator IDs are not legally required, though the CAA “strongly recommend[s] you take the test to get one, as it will help you to fly safely and legally.”
Children under 13 may get a Flyer ID, but the CAA clarifies that “children under 13 must be with a parent or guardian when they register” due to data protection rules.
Why the Changes
These updated requirements are part of the UK regulator’s efforts to ensure pilots have an understanding of basic airspace safety, legal obligations, and responsible flying behaviour. The CAA recommends reading the Drone and Model Aircraft Code, which “covers everything you need to know to pass the test to get a Flyer ID” and to “help you fly safely and legally.”
When It Takes Effect
All of the new registration rules and test requirements take effect on January 1, 2026. The CAA encourages pilots to prepare in advance so their flying remains lawful and compliant from day one.
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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