UK Drone Laws

UK Drone Laws 2026:
A Simple Guide for Drone Users

The rules for flying drones in the UK changed on 1 January 2026.

The changes affect hobby flyers, photographers, content creators, model aircraft enthusiasts, and professional drone operators. They include new UK drone class markings, updated registration requirements, Remote ID and new lighting rules for flying at night.

Some of the terminology may sound technical, but the basic aim is straightforward. The new system is designed to make it clearer who is flying a drone, what type of aircraft is being used and where it can be flown safely.

This guide explains the main changes in plain English and outlines what drone users should check before taking off.

Why Have the Drone Rules Changed?

Drones are now used for much more than photography and recreation.

They support a wide range of activities from surveying, inspection and mapping to crop spraying and even window cleaning.

As more drones enter UK airspace, the rules need to keep pace.

The updated regulations are intended to improve safety, make pilots and operators more accountable and help drones operate alongside other airspace users.

The main changes cover four areas:

  • New UK class markings for drones
  • Wider Flyer ID and Operator ID requirements
  • The introduction of Remote ID
  • Green flashing lights for night flights 

The changes are not intended to prevent people from flying drones. Instead, they are designed to make the requirements easier to understand and apply more consistently.

Changes on 1st Jan 2026

The following changes are now in effect:

  • New drones sold in the UK use UK class markings
  • More pilots need a Flyer ID
  • Remote ID applies to certain types of drone
  • Drones flown at night must display a green flashing light 

The rules that apply to your flight will depend on several things, including:

  • The weight of your drone
  • Its class marking
  • Whether it is an older or legacy model
  • Where you intend to fly
  • Your qualifications
  • How close you will be to other people
Drone Site Surveys Pilot following Drone Laws
Airspace map showing drone flight restriction zones across central London and surrounding boroughs
Drone Site Surveys Van
Professional survey drone flying over a suburban area beneath a cloudy blue sky

Read the Law on Drones Under 250g Here

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Understanding the Open Category

Most recreational flights and many lower-risk commercial flights take place within the Open Category.

The Open Category is split into three subcategories:

  • A1 – flying over people
  • A2 – flying near people
  • A3 – flying far from people

The correct subcategory depends largely on the drone’s weight and class marking.

A1 - Flying Over People

A1 is mainly intended for lightweight drones that present a lower level of risk.

UK0 and UK1 drones can normally be flown over uninvolved people. An uninvolved person is someone who is not part of the drone operation and has not agreed to take part.

However, you cannot fly over crowds or large gatherings.

Even where flight over a person is permitted, pilots should avoid remaining directly above them for longer than necessary.

A2 - Flying Near People

A2 allows certain drones to be flown closer to uninvolved people.

It applies to UK2 drones when the pilot holds an A2 Certificate of Competency, usually known as an A2 CofC.

The normal minimum horizontal distance from uninvolved people is 30 metres.

This distance may be reduced to 5 metres when a compliant UK2 drone is flown in its approved low-speed mode.

Some older drones weighing less than 2kg can still be flown under A2 rules by an A2 CofC holder. However, greater separation distances apply, and these aircraft do not receive all the benefits available to UK2 class-marked drones.

A3 - Flying Far From People

A3 is intended for larger drones and operations that must take place well away from people and built-up areas.

This category generally includes:

  • Larger or heavier drones
  • Many professional aircraft
  • Legacy drones
  • Model aircraft
  • UK3 and UK4 drones

Flights must take place away from uninvolved people and at a suitable distance from residential, commercial, industrial and recreational areas.

Pilots must make sure the location is suitable before flying. A large open field, for example, may still be unsuitable if it is close to houses, roads, businesses or members of the public.

Check Out the Latest Drone Code Here

Drone Code

General Rules for Open Category Flights

Regardless of whether you are flying in A1, A2 or A3, several basic rules continue to apply.

Pilots must:

  • Keep the drone within direct visual line of sight
  • Fly no higher than 120 metres
  • Give way to crewed aircraft
  • Follow local airspace restrictions
  • Avoid carrying dangerous goods
  • Avoid dropping objects or materials
  • Check the location before flying
  • Follow the lighting rules when flying at night

You should also check the weather, battery condition, nearby obstacles and any restrictions around airports, prisons, military sites or temporary airspace closures.

UK Drone Class Markings

What Is a UK Class Mark?

The UK class marking system came into effect on 1 January 2026.

New drones placed on the UK market must carry an appropriate UK class mark. The class mark helps determine where the aircraft can be flown and which operating rules apply.

The classification is based mainly on the drone’s maximum take-off weight, although technical and safety features may also be relevant.

UK Drone Classes at a Glance

UK class

   Maximum weight

          Category

                    Where it can normally be flown

UK0

   Less than 250g

           Open

                            A1 – over people

UK1

   Less than 900g

           Open

                            A1 – over people

UK2

   Less than 4kg

           Open

                            A2 with an A2 CofC, or A3

UK3

   Less than 25kg

           Open

                             A3 – far from people

UK4

   Less than 25kg

           Open

                             A3 – far from people

UK5

   Less than 25kg

          Specific

            Operational Authorisation required

UK6

   Less than 25kg

          Specific

            Operational Authorisation required

Are EU C-Class Drones Still Valid?

EU C-class drones remain recognised in the UK until 31st December 2027.

During this period:

  • C0 is treated as UK0
  • C1 is treated as UK1
  • C2 is treated as UK2
  • C3 is treated as UK3
  • C4 is treated as UK4

This allows people and businesses to continue using many existing drones while preparing for the long-term UK class marking system.

The class mark must be displayed on the aircraft.

Examples of Drones in Each Class

UK0 Drones

UK0 drones weigh less than 250g and can normally be flown in A1.

They may be flown over uninvolved people but not over crowds.

Examples include:

  • DJI Mini 3 Pro
  • DJI Mini 4 Pro
  • DJI Mini 5 Pro
  • DJI Neo 2
  • DJI Flip

UK1 Drones

UK1 drones weigh less than 900g and can also operate in A1.

They may include additional safety features such as low-speed functions and electronic identification technology.

Examples include:

  • DJI Air 3S
  • DJI Avata 2
  • DJI Mavic 3 Classic
  • DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise C1 Series

UK2 Drones

UK2 drones weigh less than 4kg.

They can be flown in A2 by a pilot who holds an A2 CofC. Without this qualification, they will normally need to be flown under A3 rules.

Examples include:

  • DJI Mavic 4 Pro
  • DJI Mavic 3 Thermal
  • DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise
  • DJI M30
  • DJI Matrice 4 series
  • DJI Matrice 4D Series

UK3 Drones

UK3 drones weigh less than 25kg and are limited to A3 operations within the Open Category.

They must be flown far from uninvolved people and built-up areas.

Examples include:

  • DJI Matrice 350 RTK
  • DJI Matrice 400
  • DJI Inspire 3

Full Requirements for Flying in the Open Category

Drone Code

What will happen with UK Drone Laws after December 2027?

The temporary recognition of EU C-class drones is due to end on 31 December 2027.

After this date:

  • EU C-class drones without an accepted UK classification may become legacy aircraft
  • Legacy drones will still be legal to fly
  • More restrictive operating rules may apply
  • Reduced separation distances will generally be linked to UK class-marked drones
  • Businesses may need to review or replace some aircraft

Anyone buying a drone for long-term professional use should consider how it will be treated after the transitional period ends.

What do the UK Classes Mean in Everyday Use?

UK0 and UK1

UK0 and UK1 cover smaller, lower-risk drones.

They can normally be flown in A1, including over uninvolved people, but not over crowds.

UK1 aircraft may also include extra safety technology, such as electronic identification and a low-speed mode.

UK2

UK2 covers drones weighing less than 4kg.

An A2 CofC holder may fly these drones closer to uninvolved people under A2 rules.

Without an A2 CofC, the pilot must normally follow A3 rules and remain further away from people and built-up areas.

UK3 and UK4

UK3 and UK4 aircraft operate in A3 when used within the Open Category.

They must be flown away from uninvolved people and residential, commercial, industrial or recreational areas.

UK4 is commonly associated with model aircraft and simpler aircraft designs.

UK5 and UK6

UK5 and UK6 drones are used within the Specific Category.

These flights cannot be operated under the normal Open Category rules. The operator must hold an appropriate Operational Authorisation.

Specific Category operations may require:

  • Detailed risk assessments
  • Written operating procedures
  • Trained and competent pilots
  • Emergency procedures
  • Technical safety measures
  • Approval from the relevant regulator

These requirements usually apply to more complex or higher-risk commercial work.

What Is a Legacy Drone?

A drone without a recognised UK class marking may be treated as a legacy drone.

This commonly applies to aircraft bought before 1 January 2026.

Legacy drones remain legal to use, but they may be more restricted.

The main conditions are:

  • Legacy drones under 250g can normally continue flying in A1
  • Legacy drones between 250g and 25kg usually fall into A3
  • Legacy drones under 2kg may be flown in A2 by an A2 CofC holder
  • Greater separation distances apply to legacy aircraft in A2
  • Legacy drones do not automatically receive the reduced distances available to UK2 aircraft

Owners should check the rules for each drone rather than assuming the same conditions apply across their entire collection or fleet.

Flyer and Drone Operator ID's

Who Needs a Drone Flyer ID?

From 1 January 2026, anyone flying a drone or model aircraft weighing 100g or more must hold a Flyer ID.

This is a change from the previous threshold of 250g.

A Flyer ID is obtained by completing the relevant online theory test. It confirms that the pilot understands the basic rules for safe and legal flying.

Who Needs an Drone Operator ID?

An Operator ID is required for the person or organisation responsible for a drone weighing 100g or more when it has a camera.

The Operator ID must be displayed clearly on the aircraft.

For a company operating several drones, the business may hold the Operator ID while each pilot holds their own Flyer ID and any additional qualifications

Registration Requirements

Drone type

Flyer ID

Operator ID

250g to less than 25kg

Required

Required

100g to less than 250g with a camera

Required

Required

100g to less than 250g without a camera

Required

Optional

Less than 100g

Not required, but recommended

Generally not required

Flights carried out entirely indoors or within a fully enclosed netted area are exempt from these registration requirements.

Drone Remote ID

What is a Drone Remote ID?

Remote ID is a system that allows a drone to broadcast identification and basic flight information while it is in the air.

It is intended to help authorised organisations identify aircraft and improve awareness of drone activity.

Remote ID can assist with:

  • Identifying drones and operators
  • Managing airspace safely
  • Investigating incidents
  • Supporting enforcement
  • Helping drones operate alongside other aircraft

Remote ID does not broadcast live camera footage. Its purpose is to share identification and flight information rather than the images being recorded.

Which Drones Need Remote ID From 2026?

Remote ID is required for the following UK class-marked drones:

  • UK1
  • UK2
  • UK3
  • UK5
  • UK6

Many newer drones already include Remote ID or can support it through a manufacturer firmware update.

Some older models may need an approved external Remote ID module.

Flying a Drone at Night

Any drone or model aircraft flown at night must display a green flashing light.

This requirement came into effect on 1 January 2026.

Where the aircraft does not have a suitable built-in light, an external light must be fitted securely.

The light must remain visible during the flight and should not interfere with:

  • The propellers
  • Obstacle sensors
  • GPS reception
  • Radio communications
  • The camera
  • The drone’s balance
  • Normal flight performance

The light also adds to the total weight of the aircraft. This may be important where a drone is close to a weight limit.

Professional operators should also consider whether the light affects battery life, flight performance or the accuracy of any survey equipment.

All legacy and unclassified drone will be required to transmit their Remote ID from January 1st 2028.

What Do the Changes Mean for Different Drone Users?

Recreational Flyers

People flying small drones for fun should experience relatively limited changes.

The main points to check are:

  • Whether you now need a Flyer ID
  • Whether you need an Operator ID
  • The class marking on your drone
  • Whether Remote ID applies
  • Whether a green flashing light is fitted for night flying

Anyone buying a new lightweight drone may wish to consider a UK0 or UK1 model where A1 flexibility is important.

A2 CofC Holders

Pilots with an A2 CofC continue to receive additional operating privileges.

Legacy drones under 2kg can still be used in A2, but the separation distances are greater than those available to compliant UK2 drones.

Pilots should check both their qualification and the classification of the aircraft before deciding which distance rules apply.

Professional Drone Operators

Businesses and professional operators should carry out a full review of their equipment and operating procedures.

This should include:

  • Aircraft weights and class markings
  • Remote ID capability
  • Pilot qualifications
  • Flyer ID and Operator ID records
  • Night-flying lights
  • Operations manuals
  • Risk assessments
  • Emergency procedures
  • Aircraft maintenance
  • Training records
  • Operational Authorisations
  • Subcontractor competence

Any equipment added to the aircraft, such as a lighting unit, Remote ID module or specialist sensor, should be recorded in the relevant operational documents.

Operators should also avoid promising that a flight can take place before the site, airspace and surrounding risks have been properly assessed. 

Model Aircraft Flyers

Many model aircraft are likely to fall within UK4.

Remote ID may apply from 2028 where the aircraft weighs 100g or more and carries a camera.

People flying through a recognised club or association may operate under a separate authorisation with different conditions.

The relevant club or association rules should always be checked before flying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to replace an older drone?

No. Legacy drones remain legal to fly.

However, they may be subject to stricter rules and may not benefit from the reduced separation distances available to UK class-marked aircraft.

When does Remote ID apply?

Remote ID already applies to certain UK class-marked drones.

It is expected to apply more widely from 1 January 2028, including to many drones weighing 100g or more when fitted with a camera.

Can I fly over people with a UK1 drone?

A UK1 drone can normally be flown over uninvolved people within A1.

It cannot be flown over crowds or large gatherings, and pilots should avoid remaining directly above people unnecessarily.

Can I still use an EU C-class drone in the UK?

Yes. EU C-class drones continue to be recognised under equivalent UK class rules until 31 December 2027.

Will model aircraft need Remote ID?

Remote ID may be required from 2028 where a model aircraft weighs 100g or more and has a camera.

Different arrangements may apply where the aircraft is flown under a recognised authorisation.

Do I need to take the Flyer ID test again?

An existing Flyer ID remains valid until its expiry date.

However, pilots are responsible for understanding the current regulations and making sure each flight meets the latest requirements.

Simple Pre-Flight Checklist

Before taking off, check:

  • The weight of your drone
  • Its class marking
  • Whether it is a legacy aircraft
  • Whether you are flying in A1, A2 or A3
  • Whether you need a Flyer ID
  • Whether an Operator ID is required and displayed
  • Whether you need an A2 CofC
  • Whether an Operational Authorisation is required
  • Whether Remote ID is active
  • Whether a green flashing light is fitted for a night flight
  • Whether the airspace is suitable
  • Whether you have permission to use the take-off and landing area
  • Whether you can maintain the correct distance from other people
  • Whether the weather is suitable
  • Whether the drone can remain within visual line of sight
  • Whether emergency procedures are in place

Changes expected in UK Drone Laws 2028

What’s Changing in 2028?

From 1 January 2028, Remote ID requirements are expected to extend to:

  • UK0 drones weighing 100g or more with a camera
  • UK4 model aircraft
  • Legacy drones weighing 100g or more with a camera
  • Privately built drones weighing 100g or more with a camera

Drone owners should check whether their aircraft already supports Remote ID and whether an update or additional module will be needed.

In a Nutshell

The drone rule changes introduced on 1 January 2026 affect how aircraft are registered, classified and operated in the UK.

The most important developments are:

  • UK class markings
  • Wider Flyer ID requirements
  • Remote ID
  • Green flashing lights for night flights

Older drones can still be used, but they may be more restricted than newer UK class-marked models.

Pilots should understand the classification of their aircraft, keep their qualifications and registrations up to date and assess every flight properly before take-off.

Professional operators should also review their fleets and procedures before the transitional recognition of EU C-class drones ends in December 2027.

Drone Safety Map for Flight Planning

Flight Planning Maps
No Fly Drones
Airmap
NATS
Altitude Angel

This article provides a general overview based on the information supplied. This page was updated on the 6th August 2026. Drone users should also review the latest official guidance from the UK Civil Aviation Authority before carrying out an operation.