How to Register an Autel EVO Nano+ in the UK

Sub-250 g Rules: What Makes the EVO Nano+ Different

The 250 g mark is the single most important weight threshold in UK drone regulations. The Autel EVO Nano+ sits at approximately 249 g MTOM, which places it in a more relaxed regulatory category compared to heavier drones like the EVO II series.

Here is what the sub-250 g classification means in practice:

• Flyer ID: Required. You must pass the free 20-question CAA test at register-drones.caa.co.uk.
• Operator ID: Not required for personal, recreational use. If you fly commercially or carry third-party payloads, an Operator ID (£10.33/year) is required.
• Category: A1 Open subcategory — the least restrictive of the three Open subcategories.
• People: You may fly over uninvolved people, but you must not intentionally fly over assemblies of people (crowds, concerts, sporting events).

This is a significant advantage over heavier Autel models. The EVO Nano+ can operate in areas where the EVO II Pro, EVO II V3, and EVO Lite+ cannot fly legally under the Open category.

Getting Your Flyer ID

Even though the EVO Nano+ is under 250 g, you are still legally required to hold a Flyer ID before flying. The process is simple:

1. Visit register-drones.caa.co.uk and create an account
2. Take the 20-question multiple-choice test covering airspace rules, privacy, safety, and the Drone Code
3. Score at least 16 out of 20 to pass
4. Your Flyer ID is valid for 5 years

The test is free, untimed, and can be retaken immediately if you do not pass. You must be at least 14 years old (with parental consent if under 18).

When You Do Need an Operator ID

While the EVO Nano+ does not require an Operator ID for personal recreational flights, there are scenarios where one becomes necessary:

• Commercial use: Any flight conducted for business purposes — aerial photography for clients, surveying, inspections, or real estate marketing
• Third-party payloads: If you attach any additional equipment that brings the total take-off mass to 250 g or above
• Organisational operations: If the drone is owned and operated by a business, club, or other organisation

If any of these apply, register as an operator (£10.33/year) and display your OP- number on the drone, just as you would with any drone above 250 g.

A1 Open Subcategory: Where You Can Fly

The A1 subcategory is the most permissive tier of the Open category. With the EVO Nano+ in A1, you can:

• Fly over uninvolved people (but not intentionally over crowds or assemblies)
• Operate in urban areas, parks, and near buildings without the 150 m restriction that applies to A3 drones
• Fly at up to 120 m (400 ft) AGL
• Maintain visual line of sight (VLOS) at all times

However, critical restrictions still apply regardless of weight:

• Restricted airspace: You must never enter airport Flight Restriction Zones (FRZ), active Danger Areas, or Temporary Restricted Airspace without authorisation
• NOTAMs: Always check for Notices to Airmen before each flight using the NATS Drone Assist app or the CAA's online airspace checker
• Privacy: The Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR apply to any images or video captured by the drone's camera

Practical Tips for EVO Nano+ Pilots

The sub-250 g classification makes the EVO Nano+ one of the most versatile drones for UK pilots, but a few practical considerations are worth noting:

• Weight with accessories: Be careful when adding aftermarket accessories such as propeller guards, ND filters, or GPS trackers. If the total take-off mass reaches 250 g or above, you will need an Operator ID and must follow A3 rules instead of A1.
• Wind sensitivity: At 249 g, the EVO Nano+ is more affected by wind than heavier drones. The CAA recommends not flying in winds exceeding Beaufort Force 5 (29-38 km/h), though the EVO Nano+ is rated for winds up to approximately 38 km/h.
• Insurance: While not legally required for recreational sub-250 g flights, insurance is strongly recommended. An accidental collision with a person, vehicle, or property can result in costly liability claims regardless of the drone's size.

EVO Nano+ vs Heavier Autel Models: Compliance Comparison

Understanding the regulatory difference between the EVO Nano+ and the rest of the Autel line helps you choose the right drone for your needs:

• EVO Nano+ (249 g): Flyer ID required, Operator ID not required for personal use, A1 Open, can fly near people and buildings
• EVO Lite+ (835 g): Flyer ID + Operator ID required, A3 Open, 150 m from built-up areas
• EVO II V3 (1,175 g): Flyer ID + Operator ID required, A3 Open, 150 m from built-up areas
• EVO II Pro (1,195 g): Flyer ID + Operator ID required, A3 Open, 150 m from built-up areas
• EVO Max 4T (1,670 g): Flyer ID + Operator ID required, A3 Open, 150 m from built-up areas

The EVO Nano+ is the only current Autel model that benefits from the sub-250 g regulatory advantages in the UK.