FAQ: UK Drone Registration and Operator ID

Welcome to 120mAGL.com! Whether you’re new to drones or an experienced operator, understanding UK drone registration and Operator ID requirements is essential for safe and legal flying. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive.

---

1. Do I need to register my drone in the UK?

Yes, you must register your drone if it weighs more than 250 grams or has a camera (regardless of weight) unless it’s classified as a toy. This is a legal requirement under UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947 Article 14.

You can register your drone on the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) website. Once registered, you’ll receive an Operator ID, which must be clearly displayed on your drone.

Safety Tip: Ensure your Operator ID is visible on your drone before every flight.

---

2. Who needs an Operator ID in the UK?

If you own a drone or unmanned aircraft weighing over 250 grams or equipped with a camera, you need an Operator ID. This applies to individuals and organizations (Reg 2019/947 Art. 14).

• ▸
  Individual Drone Owners: Register your drone under your name.
• ▸
  Organizations: Appoint a responsible person to obtain the Operator ID for company-owned drones.

---

3. What is the difference between Operator ID and Flyer ID?

• ▸
  Operator ID: Required for the person or organization responsible for the drone. This ID must be displayed on the drone.
• ▸
  Flyer ID: Required for anyone who wants to fly a drone weighing over 250 grams. To get a Flyer ID, you must pass an online theory test (Reg 2019/947 Art. 8).

Both IDs are mandatory for legal drone operation in the UK.

---

4. How do I display my Operator ID on my drone?

The Operator ID must be:

• ▸
  Clearly visible on the drone’s body (not inside a battery compartment).
• ▸
  Durable and legible.
• ▸
  Easy to read without needing tools to access it (Reg 2019/947 Art. 14).

---

5. Do I need a license to fly a drone in the UK?

For most recreational and commercial flights in the Open Category, you don’t need a specific license, but you must have a Flyer ID and comply with UK drone regulations (Reg 2019/947 Art. 8). For operations in the Specific Category or Certified Category, a more detailed authorization or certification may be required. Always check specific requirements with the CAA.

---

6. What are the penalties for failing to register or display an Operator ID?

Flying a drone without registration or failing to display an Operator ID is illegal. Penalties include fines and potential confiscation of your drone. Ensure compliance to avoid enforcement actions (Reg 2019/947 Art. 14).

---

7. How do I register as a drone operator in the UK?

Follow these steps:

1. Visit the CAA’s official registration portal.
2. Provide your personal or organization details.
3. Pay the registration fee (£10 annually as of 2023).
4. Receive your Operator ID and display it on your drone (Reg 2019/947 Art. 14).

---

8. Can I fly near airports or restricted areas with my registered drone?

No, you cannot fly near airports or within restricted areas unless you have explicit permission from the relevant authority. Flying near airports is regulated to protect safety and airspace integrity (Reg 2019/947 Art. 15).

Safety Tip: Use drone apps like Drone Assist to check for airspace restrictions before flying.

---

9. What happens if I accidentally fly above 120 meters?

The maximum altitude for drones in the UK is 120 meters (400 feet) unless otherwise authorized (Reg 2019/947 Art. 4). Exceeding this limit is a violation and can lead to fines or further penalties.

Safety Tip: Use geofencing features in your drone to prevent accidental altitude breaches.

---

10. How do I get a Flyer ID?

To obtain a Flyer ID:

1. Complete the online theory test on the CAA website.
2. Pass the test (covering safety, airspace rules, and responsible flying).
3. Receive your Flyer ID, valid for 5 years (Reg 2019/947 Art. 8).

---

11. Do commercial drone operators have additional requirements?

Yes, commercial operators often need authorization for operations outside the Open Category, such as in the Specific Category. This includes submitting a risk assessment and applying for an Operational Authorization from the CAA (Reg 2019/947 Art. 5). Example: Filming at a crowded event may require additional permissions and safety measures.

---

12. Can I register multiple drones under one Operator ID?

Yes, one Operator ID can cover multiple drones, but the same ID must be displayed on all drones you own (Reg 2019/947 Art. 14).

---

13. What is the difference between the Open, Specific, and Certified Categories?

• ▸
  Open Category: Low-risk operations, no authorization required (e.g., flying below 120m in unrestricted areas).
• ▸
  Specific Category: Higher-risk operations requiring authorization (e.g., BVLOS flights).
• ▸
  Certified Category: Complex operations with strict requirements (e.g., transporting goods or passengers).

Always verify your operation category before flying (Reg 2019/947 Art. 4).

---

14. How can I check for updates to drone regulations?

Visit the official CAA website regularly or subscribe to updates on drone regulations. Regulations are subject to change, and staying informed is essential for compliance.

Safety Tip: Bookmark 120mAGL’s regulation hub for easy access to the latest updates.

---

15. What happens if I fly without a Flyer ID or Operator ID?

Flying without proper IDs is illegal and can result in:

• ▸
  Fines.
• ▸
  Confiscation of your drone.
• ▸
  Legal action.

Always ensure you have both IDs before flying (Reg 2019/947 Art. 8, 14).

---

Final Safety Note

Responsible drone operation starts with understanding and following regulations. Always prioritize safety and compliance to protect yourself, others, and the integrity of UK airspace.

For more information, visit the CAA Drone Registration page or explore related topics on 120mAGL.com.

_Disclaimer: Regulations may change. Always verify with official sources._