Over 500,000 people may be breaking the law from January 1 if they fly a drone without first passing a test on how to use them safely.
The UK’s regulator has warned that rules are changing from the New Year, and many people who got one for Christmas may still not be aware.
Thousands of people are expected to have received one as a gift this festive season, whether for taking aerial photographs or just for the fun of flying it.
But before getting it up in the air, they will now need to complete a theory test and get a Flyer ID, if their drone weighs over 100g.
The requirement was previously 250g, so now people flying some of the most popular drones will be affected.
How to take the drone theory test?
You don’t have to go to a test centre, like if you wanted to drive a car.
The free test can be completed on the Civil Aviation Authority website.
Even children under 13 must pass the test if they want to fly a drone, though they should do the test with a parent or guardian.
The test is about the Drone and Model Aircraft Code. It takes half an hour, and people must get 30 correct from 40 multiple choice questions to pass.
After passing, the Flyer ID will be valid for five years, and after that will need to be renewed by passing the test again.
New drone owners must also register with the Civil Aviation Authority for an Operator ID. They must be over 18, so if a child has a drone, their parent or guardian will likely be the one registering as its operator responsible for maintenance.
What questions are on the test?
It is about the regulations for flying drones safely, such as making sure they have a green flashing light to fly at night, and keeping at least 150m away from residential, recreational, commercial and industrial areas.
Drone users must also steer clear of airports and helicopter landing sites, to avoid interfering with aircraft. They must also check for airspace restrictions before they fly.
Jonathan Nicholson, a spokesperson at the UK Civil Aviation Authority said: ‘Drones are often given as a common Christmas present and with the new drone rules coming into force this week, all drone users must register, get a Flyer ID and follow the regulations.
‘We want people to enjoy their drones but it’s vital that they have checked the new rules and know how and where to operate their drone safely before they fly.’
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