UK drone laws just changed — here’s how to get your Flier ID and Remote ID so you can get back in the air
If you don't follow the CAA's new 2026 drone rules, you could get in a lot of trouble.
(Image credit: DJI)
As of yesterday (January 1, 2026), UK drone laws just changed in three significant ways, and I wouldn’t blame you for not realizing – I have a drone, and I didn’t know the rules changed 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 based simply on weight as some safety features will be considered too, but weight still plays an important part – 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 get your Flyer ID – which means you’ll need to pass a test.
It’s all well and good to know what changes have occurred, but it's also important to understand what you have 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.
Many drones now need a Flier ID (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
How to turn on Remote ID
You can imagine Remote ID as a sort of drone license plate; it digitally broadcasts your aircraft’s serial number, real-time position data, and your operator ID – though it won’t share more personal info or a live video feed if your drone has a camera.
Many drone classes must have their Remote ID attached as of January 1, 2026, for several categories, including some drones grandfathered in under the old system. You won’t need to sort out Remote ID until January 1, 2028. Still, I’m a cautious person, and I’d just get it sorted for all your drones now if you can.
You can view your Remote ID number in the ‘My registration area’ on the CAA website. You’ll then need to look up the exact instructions for your drone on how to enter your remote ID into your device. However, it should be an option in your settings – usually under the Security, About, or dedicated Remote ID section.
(Image credit: DJI)
How to get your Flyer ID
If you were already flying a drone that is 250g or heavier, you should already have a Flyer ID – that is, unless you like breaking laws. Now, the rules have changed, so you’ll need a Flyer ID for drones 100g or heavier, which will be anything other than simpler toys. I.e. your drone.