Training & Regulations
Drone Flyer ID vs Operator ID in the UK
Understand the difference between Flyer ID and Operator ID for UK drone pilots. Learn who needs each, how to register, and stay CAA-compliant.
Find out the difference between the Flyer ID and Operator ID, and what they mean for UK drone pilots;
Flyer ID is free, valid for 5 years, and is designed for individual pilots;
Operator ID costs £11.79 a year, needs to be renewed annually, and is for people and organisations who own drones;
From the start of 2026, anyone with a drone weighing more than 100g must have a Flyer ID.
If you fly a drone in the UK, understanding the difference between a Flyer ID and an Operator ID is essential.
These two Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) registrations form the foundation of safe and legal drone flying — proving you’re competent to fly and that you have met the requirements of UK drone registration.
This guide explains each ID, who needs them, how to apply, and the key differences between them.
It's also important to know that rules for the Flyer ID are changing at the start of 2026 - so keep reading to find out more.
What is a drone Flyer ID?
A Flyer ID proves that the person flying a drone understands the CAA’s safety rules and the Drone and Model Aircraft Code.
It’s your pilot licence — confirming you’ve passed the CAA’s free online theory test and are competent to fly responsibly.
Key facts about a Flyer ID
Issued by: UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Purpose: Shows pilot competence and understanding of drone safety.
Cost: Free.
Validity: 5 years.
Minimum age: 13 (under-13s require parental consent).
How to get it: Take the online theory test via the UK CAA's website.
If you borrow someone else’s drone, you still need your own Flyer ID to fly it legally.
What is an Operator ID?
An Operator ID identifies the person or organisation responsible for the drone.
It’s like a registration plate — linking each drone to the individual or business that owns or manages it.
Key facts about an Operator ID
Issued by: Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Purpose: Identifies the registered owner or responsible party.
Cost: £11.79 per year (as of 2025).
Validity: 1 year (renew annually).
Minimum age: 18 (parents/guardians can register for younger pilots).
How to get it: Apply and pay via the UK CAA's website.
You must display your Operator ID on every registered drone in lettering at least 3 mm high, either on the body or in an easily accessible compartment.
Flyer ID vs Operator ID — Key differences
This table highlights the key differences between the Flyer ID and Operator ID
Feature | Flyer ID | Operator ID |
|---|---|---|
Purpose | Proves the pilot's competence to fly safely and legally | Identifies the person or organisation responsible for the drone |
Who needs it | Anyone who flies a drone that requires registration | The person or organisation that owns or manages the drone |
Issued by | UK CAA | UK CAA |
Cost | Free | £11.79 per year |
Validity period | 5 years | 1 year (renew annually) |
Minimum age | 13 years old (under 13s need parental consent) | 18 years old (a parent or guardian can register for minors) |
How to get it | Pass the free online CAA theory test | Register and pay via the CAA drone portal |
Represents | The person flying the drone | The owner or manager of the drone |
Displayed on drone? | No. It is personal to the pilot | Yes - it must be visible on every registered drone |
Covers multiple drones? | N/A - applies to the pilot | Yes - one Operator ID covers all your drones |
Legal responsibility | The pilot must fly safely and follow the Drone Code | The operator ensures drones are registered, maintained, and flown by qualified pilots |
When do you need a Flyer ID and Operator ID?
Whether you need a Flyer ID, an Operator ID, or both depends on your drone’s weight and features, especially whether it has a camera.
It is important to note that the rules are changing at the start of 2026. The next section shows the requirements up to 2026, and then from 2026 onwards.
Flyer ID vs Operator ID: Until the end of 2025
This table shows Flyer ID and Operator ID requirements up until the end of 2025.
Currently, a drone weighing less than 250g does not require a Flyer ID, although it is recommended to promote safe and responsible drone use.
Flying Weight | Flyer ID | Operator ID |
|---|---|---|
Below 250g - toy | Not required, but recommended | Optional |
Below 250g - not a toy - no camera | Not required, but recommended | Optional |
Below 250g - not a toy - with a camera | Not required, but recommended | Required |
250g and above | Required | Required |
Flyer ID vs Operator ID: 2026 onwards
This table shows Flyer ID and Operator ID requirements from the start of 2026.
Note the change, that any drone weighing more than 100g will require a Flyer ID.
Weight of drone (any model - including European C class marked drones) | UK Class Mark | Flyer ID | Operator ID |
|---|---|---|---|
250g to less than 25kg | UK1, UK2, UK3, UK4 | Required | Required |
100g to less than 250g, with a camera | UK0 with a camera | Required | Required |
100g to less than 250g, without a camera | UK0 without a camera | Required | Optional |
Less than 100g | Not applicable | Not required, but recommended | Optional |
UK Class Mark vs European C Class Mark
The table above refers to drones that are marked with a UK Class or European C Class. But what does this mean?
UK Class: UK class markings will start in the UK in 2026. Models placed on the market from January 1, 2026, must have a UK class mark (UK0 class to UK6 class).
European C Class Mark: If your drone has a C class mark, the manufacturer has declared that it meets the European class standards. Until December 31, 2027, you can fly a C class drone as if it has the corresponding UK class, ie fly a C1 class drone as if it is a UK1 class drone.
Drone Flyer ID and Drone Operator ID: How to apply
This provides a step-by-step guide to obtaining a Flyer ID and Operator ID.
Get Your Flyer ID
Visit the CAA registration portal.
Complete the free online theory test (40 questions, pass mark of 30).
Receive your Flyer ID instantly upon passing.
The Flyer ID is valid for 5 years. You will need to re-do the test to renew it
Get Your Operator ID
On the same portal, choose Register as an Operator.
Pay the annual £11.79 fee.
Receive your unique Operator ID (e.g., GBR-OP-1234567).
Label your drone(s) with this ID in a visible location.
Flyer ID Test
To get your Flyer ID, you must pass the CAA’s online theory test — a quick, free assessment that checks your understanding of safe and legal drone flying.
Number of questions: 40 multiple-choice questions. You can look at the Drone and Model Aircraft Code during the test.
Topics covered: The test is based on the regulations from January 1, 2026. It covers multiple topics, including airspace rules and drone classifications, privacy and data protection, pre-flight checks and safe operation, and what to do in an emergency.
Pass mark: 30. You can retake the test as many times as you need.
Time limit: None.
U13s: Children under 13 must have their parent or guardian with them when they take the test to get their Flyer ID.
Is a Flyer ID or Operator ID required when flying a drone outdoors?
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.
Flyer ID for members of model aircraft and drone associations
Some model aircraft and drone associations can issue Flyer IDs for their members. Check with your club or association for details.
Overseas qualifications and registrations
Visitors to the UK must obtain a Flyer ID and Operator ID from the UK CAA before flying in the UK.
Penalties for non-compliance with Flyer ID and Operator ID
Flying a drone without the correct registration is a criminal offence in the UK. You could face fines or prosecution for:
Flying without a valid Flyer ID.
Operating without a valid Operator ID.
Failing to label your drone correctly.
Keeping both IDs up to date ensures you stay compliant, avoid penalties, and operate safely within UK law.
Flyer ID and Operator ID: Final thoughts
The Flyer ID and Operator ID work hand in hand to make UK drone flying safer and more accountable.
In simple terms:
Flyer ID = proof you can fly.
Operator ID = proof you’re responsible.
Whether you’re a new drone owner or an experienced operator, understanding and maintaining both registrations ensures you’re flying legally — and helps keep the UK’s skies safe for everyone.
heliguy™ has a training and regulatory division. For more advice on Flyer and Operator IDs, and to conduct drone training to become a drone pilot, contact us.
