New drone regulations came into force in the UK on 30th November 2019 and then in December 2020. They require anyone who is flying a drone weighing more than 250g to sign-up to the CAA’s register. There are two elements to this as both the drone and the operator needs to be registered.
Drone Operator ID and Registration
Individuals, organisations and companies can register as a drone operator and the cost is £9. This is renewed annually. Registration generates an operator ID number that must be displayed on any of the operator’s drones.
Follow the link to register as drone operator and obtain a flier ID.
The operator ID has to be visible from the outside of the drone, or within a compartment that can easily be accessed without using a tool – the inside of the battery compartment is a good location for some drones.
The writing also needs to be clear and in block capitals taller than 3mm.
Drone Flyer ID and Registration
Anyone who flies a drone weighing more than 250g in the UK must pass an online test to get a flyer ID. It’s free to take this test and the ID is valid for 3 years.
Fortunately, the CAA doesn’t just expect you to know all the legal requirements of flying a drone and there’s some helpful online training available on the CAA website.
The test is multiple choice with 20 questions and the pass mark is 16, but you can retake the test if you fail.
While children and adults must pass the test to obtain their flyer ID, children under 13 cannot register as a drone operator and their parent or guardian must do so.
Do I need to Register the DJI Mavic Mini or Mini 2?
Cannily, the DJI Mavic Mini and DJI Mini 2 weigh less than 250g. However, as they have a camera onboard, you need register as an operator and a flyer.
Read how to set-up the DJI Mavic Mini for the first time
Exemptions
Current members of the ARPAS-UK, British Model Flying Association (BMFA), Scottish Aeromodellers’ Association (SAA) or Large Model Association (LMA) and FPV UK do not need to register as an operator as the associations will collect the registration fee from them and supply their data to the CAA.
Also, you do not need to register if your drone is only flown indoors.
You can purchase the DJI Mavic Mini from DJI.com or from retailers such as B&H Photo Video and Adorama in the US or from Wex Photo Video and Park Cameras.
Tello release notes state categorically ‘this is NOT a toy’. An operador licence will therefore be required.