About the exam
CAA Flyer ID Exam structure
An independent study guide aligned to the current UK CAA Flyer ID online theory test and March 2026 Drone and Model Aircraft Code.
Issuer and path
CAA Flyer ID Theory Test Study Guide is administered through UK Civil Aviation Authority. Check official resources before booking, retesting, or relying on a stale requirement.
CAA Flyer ID Online Theory Test
40 scored + 0 pretest
The current UK CAA basic-competence test for Open-category Over People (A1) and Far from People (A3) flying.
Before starting the online test
Use the official CAA service, keep the current Code open, allow at least 30 minutes, avoid leaving the session inactive for 90 minutes, and make sure a parent or guardian is present when the candidate is under 13.
How to use this guide
How to prepare for the Flyer ID test
Start with aircraft weight, class and IDs, then apply the people, place, airspace and pre-flight rules to practical scenarios before rehearsing the 40-question format.
1. Classify the aircraft and people
Identify weight, class, camera, operator, flyer, involved people and uninvolved people.
2. Select the permitted operation
Choose A1 or A3 and apply the correct height, people, crowd and area conditions.
3. Check site, airspace and aircraft
Verify restrictions, FRZs, weather, obstacles, condition, power, settings, payload and Remote ID.
4. Fly, monitor and recover
Maintain direct sight and airspace awareness, react early to changes, protect privacy and report serious occurrences.
Flyer ID, Operator ID and Registration Thresholds
Drone Code introduction: ID and registration requirements. Choosing the ID or IDs required from aircraft weight, camera carriage, responsibility and the age of the flyer or operator.
Key rules
Rule 1
A Flyer ID shows that the remote pilot has passed the basic competence test; an Operator ID identifies the person or organisation responsible for managing the aircraft.
Exam cue: Identify the flyer and the responsible operator separately before choosing an ID.
Rule 2
A Flyer ID is required from 100g upward, while an Operator ID is required for an aircraft of 250g or more or an aircraft of 100g or more that has a camera.
Exam cue: Check weight first, then camera carriage and class mark.
Rule 3
Below 100g neither ID is mandatory under the current table, but the applicable safety and legal rules still apply.
Exam cue: If the flyer is under 18, remember that a different adult may need to hold the Operator ID.
Common traps
Labelling an aircraft with the Flyer ID instead of the Operator ID.
Prevention: Do not confuse Flyer ID with Operator ID, treat a legal minimum as universally safe, or extend points 37-39 into the official test scope.
Assuming a camera matters only when it is actively recording.
Prevention: Do not confuse Flyer ID with Operator ID, treat a legal minimum as universally safe, or extend points 37-39 into the official test scope.
Treating an ID exemption below 100g as an exemption from the Drone Code.
Prevention: Do not confuse Flyer ID with Operator ID, treat a legal minimum as universally safe, or extend points 37-39 into the official test scope.
Memory anchors
Flyer ID
Proof that the remote pilot passed the CAA basic-competence theory test.
Operator ID
Registration of the person or organisation responsible for managing the aircraft.
100g Flyer Threshold
A Flyer ID is required to fly at 100g or above.
Camera Threshold
At 100g or above, a camera makes an Operator ID mandatory.
250g Operator Threshold
An Operator ID is required at 250g or above whether or not a camera is fitted.
Below 100g
The IDs are optional, but safe and legal flying rules still apply.
Next best moves
Quick check-up
Use a short quiz to confirm the rule pattern is actually sticking.
Check-up Questions
Who does a Flyer ID identify?
An adult owns and manages a 320g drone while a friend flies it. Who is normally the operator?
Answer all questions to submit.
Next step personalized recommendations
Open another topic next
Official resources
Verify the details with the official sources
Use these links for eligibility, scheduling, handbook rules, and issuer updates. Our guide helps you study; official sources tell you what the testing partner currently requires.
Prepare for the Flyer ID theory test
Official question count, pass mark, Code access, suggested time, inactivity rule, attempts and current-regulation basis.
CAP2320 Drone and Model Aircraft Code
Current March 2026 publication containing the tested chapters and explicit points 37-39 exclusion.
Getting what you need to fly legally
Current registration thresholds, class-mark transition, Open-category table and A1/A3 scope.
Flyer IDs and Operator IDs
CAA explanation of the two roles, age rules, validity and operator responsibilities.
Flying safely and responsibly
Current direct-sight, observer and FPV rules in points 1-2.
Where you can fly
Current height, people, crowd, area, FRZ, restriction and authorisation rules in points 3-9.
Making every flight safe
Current aircraft, payload, weather, fitness, incident, night-light and insurance rules in points 10-20.
Drone Code updates
CAA amendment history, including March 2026 changes and the 1 January 2026 class, Remote ID and night-light rules.
FAQ
Common CAA Flyer ID questions
Is this the official CAA test?
No. This is an independent study guide and contains no official or replica test questions. Only passing the CAA's online service issues a Flyer ID.
What is the difference between a Flyer ID and an Operator ID?
A Flyer ID belongs to the remote pilot and shows basic competence. An Operator ID belongs to the responsible person or organisation that manages and maintains the aircraft. The aircraft is labelled with the Operator ID, never the Flyer ID.
When is a Flyer ID required?
Under the current table, a Flyer ID is required to fly an aircraft weighing 100g or more. Below 100g it is recommended rather than mandatory, but the applicable safety and legal rules still apply.
When is an Operator ID required?
The responsible operator needs an Operator ID for an aircraft weighing 250g or more, or an aircraft weighing 100g or more that has a camera. An individual must be at least 18 to register as the operator.
What can I do with a Flyer ID?
It supplies the basic competence for eligible Over People (A1) and Far from People (A3) Open-category flying. Aircraft class, weight, date, people, place and airspace still determine what is legal. Near People (A2) requires the A2 Certificate of Competency.
Is the test timed?
There is no fixed completion limit while you remain active. The CAA says to allow at least 30 minutes and permits flexible time, but the service ends a session after more than 90 minutes of inactivity.
Can I use the Drone Code during the test?
Yes. The CAA expressly allows you to look at the Code. You should still know its structure so you can find and apply the relevant rule efficiently.
Are all 39 numbered Drone Code points tested?
No. CAP2320 expressly states that points 37-39 on follow-me mode, the model-glider height exception and very-tall-structure work are not included in the theory test. This blueprint covers the introduction and points 1-36 only.
Can a child get a Flyer ID?
Yes. There is no minimum Flyer ID age. For data-protection reasons, a child under 13 must register and take the test with a parent or guardian. A person aged under 18 cannot hold an individual Operator ID.
Do I need to recheck the Code after I pass?
Yes. A valid Flyer ID does not freeze the rules. Class recognition dates, Remote ID, registration thresholds, restrictions and Code wording can change, so use the current online Code before relying on a time-sensitive rule.