Registering to use a drone or model aircraft

Children and parent guidance

This guidance is designed to help children and their parents or guardians get the IDs they need.

It assumes that the drone or model aircraft being used by the child requires a flyer ID and operator ID. If you're not sure, check the registration requirements for drones and model aircraft.

If you want to know more about flyer IDs and operator IDs, read the overiew.

Children under 13

Getting a flyer ID

Children under 13 must have a flyer ID, just like any flyer.

For data protection reasons, children under 13 must have their parent or guardian with them when they take the test to get their flyer ID.

Operator ID

They cannot register for an operator ID until they’re 18. If your child owns a drone or model aircraft that requires an operator ID, this means you must get an operator ID.

Children under 13 must have a flyer ID. If they’re under 12, they must only fly when supervised by someone aged 16 or over.

Step-by-step

  1. Read the Drone and Model Aircraft Code with your child so you both know the rules.
  2. Then get a flyer ID for a child under 13. For data protection reasons, you must be with your child when they register and take the test.
  3. Once your child has passed the test and got their flyer ID, sign in to the My registration area and get an operator ID for yourself if you need one.

Young people aged 13 to 17

Getting a flyer ID

Young people aged 13 to 17 must have a flyer ID.

They can take the test and get a flyer ID on their own.


Operator ID

They cannot register for an operator ID until they’re 18. If your child owns a drone or model aircraft that requires an operator ID, this means you must get an operator ID.

Young people aged 13 to 17 must have a flyer ID, but can fly unsupervised.

Step-by-step for the young person

  1. Read the Drone and Model Aircraft Code so you know the rules.
  2. Take the test to get your flyer ID.

Step-by-step for the parent or guardian

  1. Register as an operator for your child’s drone or model aircraft.
  2. Label the drone or model aircraft with your operator ID.

Prices

Operator and flyer registration costs and validity
Registration Cost Valid for
Operator ID £11.13 1 year
Flyer ID £0 5 years