As of yesterday (January 1, 2026), UK drone laws just changed in three significant ways, and I don’t blame you for not realizing – I have a drone, and I didn’t know the rules were changing either.
We reported on the changes when they dropped, but as a recap: the first change is to how drones are classified – it’s no longer just based on weight, as some safety features will also be considered, but weight still plays an important role – and the second change is that you’ll need to turn on your drone’s remote ID, while the third is that most of you will now need to have your test ID – which means you’ll need to pass a flyer ID.
It’s all good to know what changes have happened, but it’s also important to understand what you need to do. So here’s a handy guide to finding your Remote ID and taking your Flier ID test so you can make your drone compliant with the new rules.
How to activate Remote ID
You can think of Remote ID as a kind of drone license plate; it digitally broadcasts your aircraft’s serial number, real-time position data, and your operator ID—though it doesn’t share more personal information or a live video feed if your drone has a camera.
Many drone classes must have their Remote ID associated from 1 January 2026 for several categories, including some drones listed under the old system. You don’t need to sort the remote ID until January 1st 2028. Still, I’m a cautious person and I’d just get it fixed for all your drones now if you can.
You can see your remote ID number in ‘My registration area’ on the CAA website. You will then need to find the exact instructions for your drone on how to enter your Remote ID on your device. However, it should be an option in your settings – usually under the Security, About or dedicated Remote ID section.
How to get your Flyer ID
If you already flew a drone weighing 250g or heavier, you should already have a Flyer ID – that is, unless you like breaking laws. Now the rules have changed so that you need a Flyer ID for drones of 100g or heavier, which will be anything but simpler toys. That is, your DJI drone.
The good news is that a Flyer ID is completely free and lasts for five years after you receive it – a much better deal than the Operator ID, which you have to renew annually and pay £11.79 for. The bad news is that you have to pass a test to get a Flyer ID.
To access it, go to the CAA’s Get a Flyer ID page and hit the big “Take the test and get a Flyer ID.” You will need an email address and a payment card on hand if you plan to renew your operator ID at the same time.
The test should take you around 30 minutes, but there is no time limit and you can have the UK CAA’s Drone and Model Aircraft Code open in another tab to help you answer questions. You must get at least 30 correct out of the 40 questions, and you can always try again if you fail.
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