Drone Laws – United Kingdom



UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)

Permission is required for recreational and commercial drone operators in the UK.


Recreational and Commercial drone operators

The new drone laws require operators to pass a theory test and register. Anyone responsible for a drone or unmanned aircraft (including model aircraft) weighing between 250g and 20kg will need to register as an operator.  The cost for registration is £9 renewable annually.  Operators need to pass an online education package (theory test). This is free and renewable every three years.

On 30th November 2019, new rules for flying drones in the United Kingdom (England, Scotland and Wales) were released.  For general information see the Drone Code. 


Registration process

  1. Registering yourself to use a drone or model aircraft
  2. Recreational Drone Operators
  3. Commercial Drone Operators
No fly zones
There are defined no fly zones in the UK.  See Airfield restrictions for more details.

Disclaimer: While all care and attention is taken to ensure the information provided is correct, it is the responsibility of the user to verify the information and conditions with the relevant civil aviation authority.