Drone Licence Guide
Find out what you need to become a drone pilot with the heliguy™ drone licence calculator.
Not every drone pilot needs a drone licence. Under new UK drone laws, this now depends on the drone you have and where you plan to fly it.
A drone licence can be applicable for both commercial and recreational pilots. However, there are cases where a licence is not required, for instance, if you are flying far away from people.
Drone Training & Pilot Registration
A drone licence is different to drone pilot registration. The majority of drone pilots will need to register with the CAA, regardless of whether or not they have/need a drone licence.
Drone training and CAA registration requirements change depending on:
Drone licence considerations
- Weight/class of drone
- Class rating of drone
- Where you plan to fly
Drone registration considerations
- Weight/class rating of drone
- Does the drone have a camera?
- Is it a toy?
Drone Pilot Registration
The majority of drone pilots will need to register with the CAA (UK Civil Aviation Authority) and get an operator ID and/or flyer ID.
Operator ID
If you're responsible for a drone or model aircraft, you are required to register as a drone operator to get an operator ID. This costs £10.
Flyer ID
If your drone weighs over 250g, the drone pilot must register and get a flyer ID. There is a 40 question multiple choice exam. This is completely free.
Click here for the CAA Drone Registration page