Flying drones and model aircraft
Registering
Resources
Overview
You must have two IDs in place before flying most drones or model aircraft outdoors in the UK:
anyone who will fly must pass a theory test to get a flyer ID
the person or organisation that owns or is responsible for the drone or model aircraft must register for an operator ID
Most people get both a flyer ID and operator ID at the same time.

The flyer ID shows you’ve passed a basic flying test and know how to fly safely and legally.
The operator ID is your registration number and must be must be labelled on your drone or model aircraft.
Toys and small drones and model aircraft
You do not need to register if the drones or model aircraft you’ll fly are certain toys, or a certain weight or class.
Take a look at the registration requirements for drones and model aircraft to find out if you need to register.
Children under 12 must be supervised
Children under 12 must be supervised by someone aged 16 or over when flying a drone or model aircraft.
Both the child and the person supervising them must have a flyer ID unless they’re only flying a toy or small drone and model aircraft.
Take a look at the registration requirements for drones and model aircraft to find out if you need to register.
Exceptions for C0 class toys and privately-built aircraft below 250g
Children under 12 do not need to be supervised when flying either:
- a toy drone or model aircraft that is marked as C0 class
- a privately-built drone or model aircraft below 250g
Drone and Model aircraft rules and regulations
The Drone and Model Aircraft Code gives guidance on flying safely and legally.
You must follow the rules and regulations whenever you go flying.
Organisations that use drones or model aircraft
Organisations that are responsible for drones or model aircraft must register their organisation for an operator ID.