How to Register Drone in Thailand

Flying a drone in Thailand? Registration is a must with the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand and the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission. This includes even the small ones with cameras. The good news is, registering online is an option. Not in Thailand yet? No problem, registration can be sorted out before stepping foot there. For a smoother ride, Alchemist Productions offers their handy service and even handles drone insurance. Imagine, the whole thing wrapped up in about two weeks. Self-registration is possible too. Curious to know how it all works? Dive in and discover the steps to register your drone in Thailand.

Table of Contents

Register with CAAT

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is the governing body responsible for registering all aircraft in Thailand, including drones. Even small personal drones are classified as aircraft and must be registered with CAAT, especially if they have cameras. The main exception is for drones without cameras. A critical requirement is obtaining drone insurance with at least THB 1 million in third-party liability coverage, which can be purchased online. Visit https://uav.caat.or.th/ to register your drone. You do not need to be in Thailand to register with the CAAT, which means you can register before your trip to Thailand. CAAT registration may take up to 2 weeks to complete.

Register with NBCT

Once you have your CAAT certfiicate the next step is to register with  the National Broadcasting Telecommunication Commission (NBCT). The documents required for NBCT registration include:

  1. Completed UAV’s Radio Equipment Registration and Owner’s Declaration of Conformity (ODoC) Form
  2. Signed copy of identity card or signed copy of your passport and entry stamp for tourist
  3. A copy of registered address or proof of address in Thailand (e.g. booking confirmation from the hotel for tourist)
  4. Photos of the drone showing Model, trademark (brand), serial number, controller, quantity, and the performance of the Drone including devices installed.

Unlike CAAT registration, you must be physically present in Thailand to register with the NBTC. Registration must be completed within 30 days of entering Thailand or purchasing a drone, even if you don’t plan to fly it. NBCT registration usually takes 3-5 business days to complete. The approval is valid for the duration of your visa or entry stamp at the time of registration, while Thai citizens have a validity of up to 90 days. If you extend your stay in Thailand, you’ll need to renew your NBTC registration.

Visit the NBCT website apply online.

Flying Your Drone - General Rules

Now that you are fully registered, go ahead and fly your drone, but do follow these key Do’s and Don’ts:

  • Do get permission of the owner of the land to fly (this includes National Parks)
  • Do fly in line of sight at all times
  • Do respect the privacy rights of others
  • Don’t fly higher than 90 metres
  • Don’t fly close to manned aircraft
  • Don’t fly close to people, vehicles or buildings (the drone should always be a minimum of 30 metres away)
  • Don’t fly within city limits
  • Don’t fly over any areas where people are gathered
  • Don’t fly in or near restricted areas e.g. government offices, state buildings, hospitals etc.
  • Don’t fly within 9 km (or 5 nautical miles) of any airport or temporary airfield
  • Don’t allow any person under 18 to fly the drone