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Drone Laws in Thailand

Summary of Drone Laws in Thailand

Hobbyist Drone Laws For Residents of Thailand

Drone Operations in Thailand are currently regulated.

  • Hobbyist drone flights are allowed in Thailand
  • Hobbyist Thailand drone pilot license is required
  • Hobbyist Drone registration is required in Thailand for hobbyists flying over 2kg drone, or drone with a camera
  • Drone Remote ID is not required in Thailand for hobbyists
  • Drone Insurance is not required but recommended for hobbyists’ drone operations in Thailand

Read below for more details on Hobbyist Drone Laws in Thailand and to find links to regulators and other credible sources!

Commercial Drone Laws For Residents of Thailand

Drone Operations in Thailand are currently regulated.

  • Commercial drone flights are allowed in Thailand
  • Commercial Thailand drone pilot license is required
  • Commercial Drone registration is required in Thailand for commercial drone operators
  • Drone Remote ID is not required in Thailand for Commercial Drone Operators
  • Drone Insurance is not required for commercial drone operations in Thailand

Read below for more details on Commercial Drone Laws in Thailand and to find links to regulators and other credible sources!

Drone Regulations For Visitors To Thailand

Drone Operations in Thailand are currently regulated.

  • Foreign visitor drone flights are allowed in Thailand
  • Foreign visitor drone pilot license is required
  • Drone registration is required in Thailand for visitors/tourists
  • Drone Remote ID is not required in Thailand for tourists
  • Drone Insurance is not required but recommended for tourist drone operations in Thailand

Read below for more details on Drone Laws in Thailand for Visitors (Tourists) and to find links to regulators and other credible sources!

Drone Rules For Government Drone Operators in Thailand

Drone Operations in Thailand are currently regulated.

  • Government drone flights are allowed in Thailand
  • Government drone pilot license is required
  • Drone registration is required in Thailand for Government operations
  • Drone Remote ID is not required in Thailand for Government operations
  • Drone Insurance is not required for Government drone operations in Thailand

Read below for more details on Drone Laws in Thailand for Government Drone Operations and to find links to regulators and other credible sources!

Agencies Responsible for regulating drones in the Kingdom of Thailand

Drone Regulator: The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT)

Contact Information

If you need additional details we have not covered or specific case help, contact the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand at:

  • Address: 222 Soi Vibhavadi Rangsit 28, Vibhavadi Rangsit Rd., Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
  • Phone: +66 (0) 2568-8851 or 063-205-8816
  • Fax: +66 (0) 2568-8844
  • Email: saraban@caat.or.th or info@caat.or.th

Please continue reading for more details on Thailand Drone Laws.

UAS Laws – General rules for flying drones in Thailand

The Thailand agency responsible for drone safety, CAAT, has provided several details on flying for fun or work. The highlights are enumerated below. For more details, go to the link above.

Are drones allowed in Thailand?

According to CAAT, drones are allowed in Thailand, subject to CAAT regulations. Read on for details.

Here are the most important rules to know for flying a drone in Thailand:

All drones equipped with cameras must be registered. 

All drones weighing more than 2 kilograms (4.4 pounds) must be registered. 

Register at the CAAT online drone registration Portal. 

Drones that exceed 25 kilograms (55 pounds) must be registered with the Ministry of Transport. 

  • At all times, drone pilots must maintain a visual line of sight with their drones.
  • Drones must not be flown within a certain distance of manned aircraft. 
  • Drones must not be flown within 30 meters (98 feet) of any person, vehicle, construction, or building. 
  • Without authorization, drones must not be flown in restricted areas. 
  • Except with special authorization, drones may not be flown within 9 kilometers (5 miles) of an airport or temporary airfield. 
  • Drones may not be flown above 90 meters (295 feet).
  • Airports must be kept at a distance of 9 kilometers (= 5 miles). 
  • You must avoid flying near crowds. It is prohibited to fly over cities and villages. Additionally, stay away from government buildings and hospitals. 
  • To take off and land, you must always obtain permission from the property owner. In practice, we usually resolve this by requesting permission from the guards or the information desk. 
  • Always keep your drone within a visual line of sight. 
  • Drone flights are permitted in Thailand only during daylight hours, i.e., between sunrise and sunset. 
  • Additionally, Thai law requires that you have an emergency plan. This includes the requirement to carry a fire extinguisher.

Where to register?

  1. Must register at two agencies: CAAT and NBTC
    (The National Broadcasting Telecommunications Commission)
  2. NBTC is for registering the frequency used by drones.
    CAAT is for registering the persons who control and are in charge of the drone.
  3. Registering with NBTC alone is not enough to fly a drone.
    To enable you to fly your drone, you must register with an equivalent to a drone pilot’s license.
What documents CAAT require for drone registration
What documents CAAT require for drone registration

Type of Drone that must register

  1. A drone with camera/ recording equipment must be registered.
  2. A drone over 2 kilograms must be registered.
    (If there is no camera/ recording equipment and the drone is not over 2 kilograms, there is no need to be registered)
  3. Drone over 25 Kilograms must have permission from the Minister of Transport.

Note for Foreign Operators

Drones are not prohibited from entering Thailand. 

Drone registration is available only within the country. 

To register your drone with the NBTC, you will need the following documents: 

  • A copy of the passport that has been signed and stamped with the entry stamp 
  • Thailand registered address (hotel booking would do) 
  • Drone and controller photographs and serial numbers 
  • A copy of the drone insurance policy must include at least THB 1 million (approximately $32,000) in coverage. 

After receiving approval from the NBTC, you may apply for CAAT registration. 

This can be done at the CAAT online registration site, and results are typically available within 15 days. 

Once registered successfully, the registration is valid for two years.

Very detailed information was provided by recent visitors in the comments below.

Notes for recreational drone pilots flying for fun in Thailand

If your drone has a camera and weighs more than 2kg, you must register it with the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) and obtain permission to fly it. This is solely for personal use – uploading to your YouTube channel, for example.

The pilot or operator must adhere to the terms specified, which include the following: 

  • The UAV’s pilot or operator must be at least 20 years old. 
  • You must not be a threat to national security 
  • Must never have been incarcerated under narcotics or customs laws 
  • Must have applied to the Ministry of Transportation for a license to operate a UAV as a controller or launcher. 
  • Avoid invading others’ privacy.

Follow the general rules listed above, but check for updates by visiting the regulator’s links provided.

Notes for operating Commercial Drone Services in Thailand

If the drone is to be used commercially, it must also be registered with Thailand’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT). 

Additionally, if the drone weighs more than 25 kilograms, it must be registered with the Thai Ministry of Transport.

  • Must be an owner or operator of a business in a related category (i.e., mass media, film production) 
  • Must apply to the Ministry of Transportation for a license to operate the UAV as a controller or launcher. 
  • The controller or launcher must adhere to the terms specified in the Notification that apply to UAVs used for recreational purposes (e.g., as a hobby, entertainment, or sport) and weighing more than 2 kg but not more than 25 kg.

See general rules above

Useful published information on flying drones in Thailand

Here is a sample of what you might expect if you follow the drone laws and fly in Thailand…

Authoritative Sources of Information on Thailand Drone Laws

We will attempt to keep an updated list of online authoritative links to regulators and other official websites here:

NOTE: This page is about the Regulation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles: Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (SUAS), Small UAS, Remote Piloted Aerial Systems (RPAS), unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), Unmanned Aerial System (UAS), and drone are interchangeable terms unless specified. Model Aircraft, toy, remote-controlled, and RC aircraft may be covered by the same regulations unless specified.

Find out why

We think you must use a Drone Preflight Checklist

And a Drone Post-flight checklist

Free Drone Flight Checklist PDF

This Drone Flight Checklist is better than others.

It’s free!

It includes both the preflight checklist and post-flight checklist

It’s an easy-to-use printable PDF that covers all your bases.

Go here to read why you need a Drone Preflight Checklist and get the free PDF
Go here to read why you need a Drone Post-flight Checklist and get the free PDF

Traveling with a Drone?

Click here to read our Comprehensive Guide For Traveling With A Drone.

NOW IT’S YOUR TURN

Help Us Keep Drone Laws Updated

Tell Us About Your Recent Experience

In The Comments Below

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44 responses to “Drone Laws in Thailand”

  1. Cappuccino Monkey

    November 2024 update:
    – I was able to bring my DJI Mini 4 Pro into Thailand without any issues (this may be relevant for folks who want to bring their drone into Thailand but not use it here).
    – After arrival, I registered the drone with the NBTC: https://anyregis.nbtc.go.th/sign_up/foreigner/

    This involved taking photos of:
    drone
    controller
    serial numbers of both drone and controller
    passport
    entry stamp on passport

    You complete an online form for this. This website has a terrible/old design so be prepared to be frustrated.

    – It takes 5-7 working days for them to process/approve the application (4 days in my case).
    – Once the application has been approved, you receive an email with a PDF form to deposit the registration fee.
    – Print out the form and bring it to a Krungthai Bank branch (you can only pay in cash at this bank).
    – It cost 214 Baht + 10 Baht service fee (November 2024).
    – 2 hours after I deposited the money, I received an automated confirmation email (check your spam/junk folder regularly: most of the NBCT emails ended up there).
    – The confirmation email includes a password-protected PDF file with the receipt. The instructions are unclear about how to unlock this PDF: “Entering password as follows: SMS Ref.Code from Mobile phone number that you registered for further information, please contact Call Center 1200”. I have emailed the NBCT for guidance.
    – FYI, the drone registration has no time limit: it lasts for as long as you own the drone.

    Ideally, I would now register for a pilot license at:
    https://uav.caat.or.th
    (this website is also badly designed, so be prepared)

    However, there are 3 reasons I will not be doing this.
    1. My insurance policy document doesn’t include everything the CAAT requires:

    “Please kindly submit the insurance policy which covers damages caused to the body, life and properties of the third parties. The minimum sum insured is not less than 1 Million Baht per time.
    What should be mentioned on insurance policy are:
    – UAV Brand
    – UAV Model
    – **UAV Serial Number**
    – UAV Weight
    – Your name as an insured on the paperwork as well
    – Please also mention if this insurance policy will be covered in Thailand or Worldwide
    – Please make sure that your insurance policy is translated in English.”

    In my case, the drone insurance policy does not specify my drone brand/model/serial number etc.

    2. By the time I get my insurance company to add the necessary information (assuming this is even possible) AND then wait for the CAAT clearance to comes through (15 days), I will have left Thailand.
    3. The requirement to carry a fire extinguisher when operating the drone (which is clearly absurd for a micro drone and impractical for a tourist).

    However, it is still useful to have the drone registration as it resolves any potential legal issues about possessing a drone in Thailand. Furthermore, the drone registration can only be done while in Thailand.

    As for the pilot license, it’s possible that the drone laws will change in future so there won’t be any need to lug a fire extinguisher around. At this point, I can get the necessary insurance paperwork and apply for a pilot license. So far as I can see, it is not a requirement to be in Thailand to apply for a pilot license. Which means that, in theory, I could apply a month or two in advance of a future trip to Thailand so that any delays won’t impact my plans.

    TLDR: for most tourists visiting for 2-4 weeks, it’s highly unlikely that you will have enough time to complete this process. In addition, you may decide that the cumbersome application process and excessive requirements are not worth the hassle.

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      Thank you so much for sharing your experience.

      Reply
    2. Cappuccino Monkey

      Further update:
      When I was completing the NBCT application, it said the drone registration wouldn’t expire. This is not the case for tourists.

      About 2 days after receiving confirmation of payment by email, I received the NBCT certificate (you get an email with a link to a PDF). At the bottom of the PDF, the certificate expiry date is the same as when my tourist visa expires (60 days from when I entered Thailand). There are also additional notes which state in English: “Please note that, There will be a fine according to the non-renewal after it expires.” I’m confused by the language here as it suggests I will be fined for not renewing an expired certificate that I will be unable to renew as I will be outside the country. Bizarre.

      So it appears that the NBCT *does* expire for tourists. There are obvious complications here for people who may wish to extend their tourist visa or who wish to use their drone on a subsequent visit to Thailand.

      Reply
  2. Jose R

    Hi! I am travelling to Thailand on Feb 2- Feb 24th. I have a DJI mini2 that weighs only 249g. it does have a camera though so I understand that I need to register the drone. i will only take occasional shots purely for recreational purposes.

    -can I register the drone online before I arrive to Thailand?
    – I will be traveling to many places in Thailand, if the permit takes 15 days AND can only be done upon my arrival it probably wouldn’t work for me.

    If anyone can guide me on the process I would be very thankful.

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      Adding this for any travelers with experience.

      Reply
    2. Rui Manso

      I’m in the same situation. I’m going to travel in April for 15 days… with DJI Mini 3 Pro and I won’t have time to finish the registration. Any help???

      Reply
    3. Ad

      Hi Jose.

      I assume your trip has finished already. Could you share you experiences ? I spent 3hrs on research for the same question unfortunately unsuccessfully.

      Thanks in advance!

      Reply
  3. 818Pilotguy

    Thank you not only for the Article, which is highly detailed, but for recommending a pre and post-flight checklist.

    As a licensed pilot of an Aircraft, I would never take off without completing my checklist, nor would I just taxi up and park the plane at a jetbridge or on a ramp without completing my post-flight.

    It’s refreshing to you advocating for the same when operating a drone.

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      Thank you. We hope every drone user will use a checklist before and after their flight. It is so much better for everyone.

      Hope others follow your lead.

      All the best

      Reply
  4. Kelvin choo

    My drone is DJI mini 2, it comes with camera built in. I would like to bring it to Thailand for my tour in Chiangmai and BKK.
    Which department should head firstly to register and buy the insurance from?

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      This is accomplished upon arrival in Thailand. You will register with the NBTC and CAAT. See section above with notes for foreign visitors.

      Reply
  5. Michel

    This is what I received today from CAAT

    Pre-flight Conditions

    Ensure that the aircraft is in a safe condition for flight, including the aircraft itself and its control systems.
    Obtain permission from the owner of the area for flight.
    Study the area and airspace to be used for flight.
    Have an emergency plan, including medical treatment and solutions for accidents and situations where aircraft cannot be controlled.
    Maintain and service the aircraft according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
    Possess knowledge and expertise in operating the aircraft and its systems.
    Understand the aviation regulations.
    Carry the aircraft operator’s registration document (for externally controlled flight) during flight.
    Have functional fire extinguishing equipment on board at all times during flight.
    Have aircraft insurance covering bodily injury, life, and property damage of third parties, with a minimum coverage of 1 million Baht/incident. The insurance policy must be carried along with the aircraft operator’s registration document and renewed at least 30 days before expiry.
    In-flight Conditions

    Prohibit flights that could endanger the life, body, property, and peace of other individuals.
    Prohibit flights in restricted, prohibited, and danger areas as declared in the Aeronautical Information Publication – Thailand (AIP – Thailand), including government facilities and hospitals, unless permitted by the area owner.
    Flight paths must be clear of obstacles.
    Pilots must have continuous visual contact with the aircraft during flight and cannot control the aircraft using onboard cameras or similar equipment.
    Flights must occur during daylight hours, with clear visibility of the aircraft.
    Prohibit flights near or into clouds.
    Prohibit flights within 9 kilometers (5 nautical miles) of temporary takeoff or landing sites, or airports, unless authorized by airport authorities.
    Prohibit flights above 90 meters (300 feet) from the ground.
    Prohibit flights over cities, villages, communities, or areas with gatherings of people.
    Prohibit enforcing aircraft into or near aircraft with pilots.
    Prohibit flights infringing on the personal rights of others.
    Prohibit flights causing disturbance or annoyance to others.
    Prohibit carrying hazardous materials as defined by ministry regulations or laser-emitting devices on the aircraft.
    Prohibit flights at a horizontal distance less than 50 meters (150 feet) from people, vehicles, structures, and buildings not related to flight operations.
    For inquiries or additional information regarding flight permissions, contact +662 568 8800 ext. 1603 or email: uav@caat.or.th.
    (Note: The translation provided may not capture all the legal nuances and may require further review by a legal professional for accuracy.)

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Thanks for this update Michel. We will review against the published regulations and make changes above if necessary. Cheers

      Reply
  6. David Tayar

    How much time take to get application from from Registration of CAAT?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      We understand it takes typically 15 days

      Reply
      1. Bob

        I live in Thailand and recently purchased a DJI Mini 4 Pro. With the assistance of the retailer, it took just under 30 days to complete the registration process.

        Reply
  7. Dave

    Hi, I have a mini se that I have registered with the NBTC & CAAT+ the required insurance. I would like to use it to make a little extra money, what other requirement do I need??

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Follow the commercial section above.

      Reply
    2. Bob

      Making money in Thailand is considered working and requires an appropriate VISA and Work Permit. As a tourist, you can’t make a little money. As a legal resident, most VISA prohibits working.

      Reply
  8. Adofo

    Very good ay. I am in transit in Bangkok and I will spend a night in a hotel. The next morning I will move from the other airport to fly to Cambodia. I will bring my drone with me and will be only for transit. I am not using it in Thai. I need to register it or is not a problem?

    Thanks

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Adofo, you don’t need to register the drone since you are in transit. Ordinarily, one would declare the drone at the airport, where they sometimes decide to keep it for you to pick up on departure. In your situation, the authorities may allow you to take the drone if you are departing from another airport. Hard to predict how they will handle this exactly, but drones are allowed to be brought to Thailand by foreigners, and you don’t need to register them unless you are flying them or leaving them there. Please let us know how your experience goes.

      Reply
      1. Mirko

        Hi,
        could please tell me where to find this information? i mean the law reference.

        Thanks,
        Mirko

        Reply
        1. Editorial Team

          Mirko, this is the procedure followed by the customs officials as experienced by travelers. You may contact the Customs authority directly for precise guidance.

          Reply
  9. Graeme McKenzie

    Hi. I’m heading to Koh Samui next week. My drone is 249g (DJI Mini SE), it has a camera and will only be used for recreational purposes. Do I still need to register it? Do I need insurance?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Your drone has a camera that is not exempt, so it needs to be registered.

      Reply
    2. Ramone

      Hi , How Koh Samui you brings drone?

      Reply
  10. Marko

    Great information.. I appreciate it.
    I’m going to Thailand for 28 days I’ll probably not get approval that trip.. so can I take a picture of the drone and controller and leave them at home and then wait for approval and take it next time I’m in Thailand ?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Sounds like a smart plan

      Reply
  11. André Comte

    Im a little confused.
    I have over 40 small Drones under 250g and all with camera.
    Many i have make it self with 3D/Printer and i fly it only for fun in my garden.
    And now ? I need realy a registration for all ?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      We recommend you check with the regulator for your specific circumstances

      Reply
  12. Patrick

    Hi,
    You say you cannot fly close to buildings and not over cities.
    But at the same time you say :”Here is a sample of what you might expect if you follow the drone laws and fly in Thailand”.
    This is completely contradictory.

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Patrick, the promotional videos are not ours. We try to link to videos by drone operators that are sourcing their videos legally, getting the appropriate approvals, and are typically operating as commercial operators. Those rules are different than hobbyist rules.

      Reply
      1. Henrik

        Drone insurance can make online on FEIC it cost 1500 Bath.

        Reply
  13. Noyb

    Drones are loud, annoying, dangerous and unnecessary. There are is already tons of Drone footage available on YouTube for almost any area of the world. No need to endanger others with your amateur flying. Just look it up on YouTube.

    Reply
    1. So Cal

      Drones under the weight of 250g are not loud. As to them being annoying, that is certainly a subjective opinion, not fact. As to what qualifies as “unnecessary,” again, subjective. No one is being “endangered.” Your animosity has left you jaded, and your comment is merely an opinion, and is not based in fact at all. There is a reason drone pilots have to take certifications and safety classes before operating. You’d do well to familiarize yourself with what is required before you go spouting hateful remarks to drone operators.

      Reply
    2. Marko

      Mavic mini 3 is so quiet I sometimes don’t know where it is lol

      Reply
    3. MV

      Hi, I plan to get my drone but I don’t want to fly in Thailand. I want to take it to vietnam and cambodia. I plan to stay in Thailand for ten days before heading to other places, will it be a problem to carry? Should I leave it behind?

      Reply
      1. Editorial Team

        The Thai can be very accommodating. They may offer to keep the drone at the airport for you to pick up on your way out.

        Reply
  14. DANNY

    Hi I have a zino 2 plus. It has a very nice camera but definitely ways less than 2kg.
    Every website I’ve visited says different things. Can anyone please clarify.

    My drone has a camera but weighs less than 2 kg. Do I have to register it?

    Can I register it online? I’m only in phuket for 10 days. Will it be worth taking?

    I understand I have to have insurance. Can anyone please suggest a reputable insurance provider please.

    Thanks for your help.

    Reply
    1. Travelling Joey

      According to the below statement which published on this site, you must register your drone.

      “All drones equipped with cameras must be registered.”

      Good luck and have fun flying.

      Reply
      1. So Cal

        “All drones equipped with cameras AND over 2kg…” Read the entire thing as it relates to Notes for Recreational fliers.. the area where you got that statement from, is under “general rules..” Meaning, that’s a GENERAL rule. Specifics follow under the headline of Notes for Recreational fliers.

        Reply
  15. Mark

    These two points in your list of important rules seem to contradict each other:

    Drones must not be flown within 30 meters (98 feet) of any person, vehicle, construction, or building.

    You cannot approach people, vehicles, or buildings closer than 50 meters.

    Is it 30 metres or 50 metres?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Mark, your drones must be 30 meters from any person, vehicle. construction or building. We have removed the reference which was an older recommendation regarding the pilot (which is not found in the current regulation). Thanks for your inquiry.

      Reply

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44 thoughts on “Drone Laws in Thailand”

  1. November 2024 update:
    – I was able to bring my DJI Mini 4 Pro into Thailand without any issues (this may be relevant for folks who want to bring their drone into Thailand but not use it here).
    – After arrival, I registered the drone with the NBTC: https://anyregis.nbtc.go.th/sign_up/foreigner/

    This involved taking photos of:
    drone
    controller
    serial numbers of both drone and controller
    passport
    entry stamp on passport

    You complete an online form for this. This website has a terrible/old design so be prepared to be frustrated.

    – It takes 5-7 working days for them to process/approve the application (4 days in my case).
    – Once the application has been approved, you receive an email with a PDF form to deposit the registration fee.
    – Print out the form and bring it to a Krungthai Bank branch (you can only pay in cash at this bank).
    – It cost 214 Baht + 10 Baht service fee (November 2024).
    – 2 hours after I deposited the money, I received an automated confirmation email (check your spam/junk folder regularly: most of the NBCT emails ended up there).
    – The confirmation email includes a password-protected PDF file with the receipt. The instructions are unclear about how to unlock this PDF: “Entering password as follows: SMS Ref.Code from Mobile phone number that you registered for further information, please contact Call Center 1200”. I have emailed the NBCT for guidance.
    – FYI, the drone registration has no time limit: it lasts for as long as you own the drone.

    Ideally, I would now register for a pilot license at:
    https://uav.caat.or.th
    (this website is also badly designed, so be prepared)

    However, there are 3 reasons I will not be doing this.
    1. My insurance policy document doesn’t include everything the CAAT requires:

    “Please kindly submit the insurance policy which covers damages caused to the body, life and properties of the third parties. The minimum sum insured is not less than 1 Million Baht per time.
    What should be mentioned on insurance policy are:
    – UAV Brand
    – UAV Model
    – **UAV Serial Number**
    – UAV Weight
    – Your name as an insured on the paperwork as well
    – Please also mention if this insurance policy will be covered in Thailand or Worldwide
    – Please make sure that your insurance policy is translated in English.”

    In my case, the drone insurance policy does not specify my drone brand/model/serial number etc.

    2. By the time I get my insurance company to add the necessary information (assuming this is even possible) AND then wait for the CAAT clearance to comes through (15 days), I will have left Thailand.
    3. The requirement to carry a fire extinguisher when operating the drone (which is clearly absurd for a micro drone and impractical for a tourist).

    However, it is still useful to have the drone registration as it resolves any potential legal issues about possessing a drone in Thailand. Furthermore, the drone registration can only be done while in Thailand.

    As for the pilot license, it’s possible that the drone laws will change in future so there won’t be any need to lug a fire extinguisher around. At this point, I can get the necessary insurance paperwork and apply for a pilot license. So far as I can see, it is not a requirement to be in Thailand to apply for a pilot license. Which means that, in theory, I could apply a month or two in advance of a future trip to Thailand so that any delays won’t impact my plans.

    TLDR: for most tourists visiting for 2-4 weeks, it’s highly unlikely that you will have enough time to complete this process. In addition, you may decide that the cumbersome application process and excessive requirements are not worth the hassle.

    Reply

    • Further update:
      When I was completing the NBCT application, it said the drone registration wouldn’t expire. This is not the case for tourists.

      About 2 days after receiving confirmation of payment by email, I received the NBCT certificate (you get an email with a link to a PDF). At the bottom of the PDF, the certificate expiry date is the same as when my tourist visa expires (60 days from when I entered Thailand). There are also additional notes which state in English: “Please note that, There will be a fine according to the non-renewal after it expires.” I’m confused by the language here as it suggests I will be fined for not renewing an expired certificate that I will be unable to renew as I will be outside the country. Bizarre.

      So it appears that the NBCT *does* expire for tourists. There are obvious complications here for people who may wish to extend their tourist visa or who wish to use their drone on a subsequent visit to Thailand.

      Reply

  2. Hi! I am travelling to Thailand on Feb 2- Feb 24th. I have a DJI mini2 that weighs only 249g. it does have a camera though so I understand that I need to register the drone. i will only take occasional shots purely for recreational purposes.

    -can I register the drone online before I arrive to Thailand?
    – I will be traveling to many places in Thailand, if the permit takes 15 days AND can only be done upon my arrival it probably wouldn’t work for me.

    If anyone can guide me on the process I would be very thankful.

    Reply

    • I’m in the same situation. I’m going to travel in April for 15 days… with DJI Mini 3 Pro and I won’t have time to finish the registration. Any help???

      Reply

    • Hi Jose.

      I assume your trip has finished already. Could you share you experiences ? I spent 3hrs on research for the same question unfortunately unsuccessfully.

      Thanks in advance!

      Reply

  3. Thank you not only for the Article, which is highly detailed, but for recommending a pre and post-flight checklist.

    As a licensed pilot of an Aircraft, I would never take off without completing my checklist, nor would I just taxi up and park the plane at a jetbridge or on a ramp without completing my post-flight.

    It’s refreshing to you advocating for the same when operating a drone.

    Reply

    • Thank you. We hope every drone user will use a checklist before and after their flight. It is so much better for everyone.

      Hope others follow your lead.

      All the best

      Reply

  4. My drone is DJI mini 2, it comes with camera built in. I would like to bring it to Thailand for my tour in Chiangmai and BKK.
    Which department should head firstly to register and buy the insurance from?

    Reply

    • This is accomplished upon arrival in Thailand. You will register with the NBTC and CAAT. See section above with notes for foreign visitors.

      Reply

  5. This is what I received today from CAAT

    Pre-flight Conditions

    Ensure that the aircraft is in a safe condition for flight, including the aircraft itself and its control systems.
    Obtain permission from the owner of the area for flight.
    Study the area and airspace to be used for flight.
    Have an emergency plan, including medical treatment and solutions for accidents and situations where aircraft cannot be controlled.
    Maintain and service the aircraft according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
    Possess knowledge and expertise in operating the aircraft and its systems.
    Understand the aviation regulations.
    Carry the aircraft operator’s registration document (for externally controlled flight) during flight.
    Have functional fire extinguishing equipment on board at all times during flight.
    Have aircraft insurance covering bodily injury, life, and property damage of third parties, with a minimum coverage of 1 million Baht/incident. The insurance policy must be carried along with the aircraft operator’s registration document and renewed at least 30 days before expiry.
    In-flight Conditions

    Prohibit flights that could endanger the life, body, property, and peace of other individuals.
    Prohibit flights in restricted, prohibited, and danger areas as declared in the Aeronautical Information Publication – Thailand (AIP – Thailand), including government facilities and hospitals, unless permitted by the area owner.
    Flight paths must be clear of obstacles.
    Pilots must have continuous visual contact with the aircraft during flight and cannot control the aircraft using onboard cameras or similar equipment.
    Flights must occur during daylight hours, with clear visibility of the aircraft.
    Prohibit flights near or into clouds.
    Prohibit flights within 9 kilometers (5 nautical miles) of temporary takeoff or landing sites, or airports, unless authorized by airport authorities.
    Prohibit flights above 90 meters (300 feet) from the ground.
    Prohibit flights over cities, villages, communities, or areas with gatherings of people.
    Prohibit enforcing aircraft into or near aircraft with pilots.
    Prohibit flights infringing on the personal rights of others.
    Prohibit flights causing disturbance or annoyance to others.
    Prohibit carrying hazardous materials as defined by ministry regulations or laser-emitting devices on the aircraft.
    Prohibit flights at a horizontal distance less than 50 meters (150 feet) from people, vehicles, structures, and buildings not related to flight operations.
    For inquiries or additional information regarding flight permissions, contact +662 568 8800 ext. 1603 or email: uav@caat.or.th.
    (Note: The translation provided may not capture all the legal nuances and may require further review by a legal professional for accuracy.)

    Reply

    • Thanks for this update Michel. We will review against the published regulations and make changes above if necessary. Cheers

      Reply

  7. Hi, I have a mini se that I have registered with the NBTC & CAAT+ the required insurance. I would like to use it to make a little extra money, what other requirement do I need??

    Reply

    • Making money in Thailand is considered working and requires an appropriate VISA and Work Permit. As a tourist, you can’t make a little money. As a legal resident, most VISA prohibits working.

      Reply

  8. Very good ay. I am in transit in Bangkok and I will spend a night in a hotel. The next morning I will move from the other airport to fly to Cambodia. I will bring my drone with me and will be only for transit. I am not using it in Thai. I need to register it or is not a problem?

    Thanks

    Reply

    • Adofo, you don’t need to register the drone since you are in transit. Ordinarily, one would declare the drone at the airport, where they sometimes decide to keep it for you to pick up on departure. In your situation, the authorities may allow you to take the drone if you are departing from another airport. Hard to predict how they will handle this exactly, but drones are allowed to be brought to Thailand by foreigners, and you don’t need to register them unless you are flying them or leaving them there. Please let us know how your experience goes.

      Reply

        • Mirko, this is the procedure followed by the customs officials as experienced by travelers. You may contact the Customs authority directly for precise guidance.

          Reply

  9. Hi. I’m heading to Koh Samui next week. My drone is 249g (DJI Mini SE), it has a camera and will only be used for recreational purposes. Do I still need to register it? Do I need insurance?

    Reply

  10. Great information.. I appreciate it.
    I’m going to Thailand for 28 days I’ll probably not get approval that trip.. so can I take a picture of the drone and controller and leave them at home and then wait for approval and take it next time I’m in Thailand ?

    Reply

  11. Im a little confused.
    I have over 40 small Drones under 250g and all with camera.
    Many i have make it self with 3D/Printer and i fly it only for fun in my garden.
    And now ? I need realy a registration for all ?

    Reply

  12. Hi,
    You say you cannot fly close to buildings and not over cities.
    But at the same time you say :”Here is a sample of what you might expect if you follow the drone laws and fly in Thailand”.
    This is completely contradictory.

    Reply

    • Patrick, the promotional videos are not ours. We try to link to videos by drone operators that are sourcing their videos legally, getting the appropriate approvals, and are typically operating as commercial operators. Those rules are different than hobbyist rules.

      Reply

  13. Drones are loud, annoying, dangerous and unnecessary. There are is already tons of Drone footage available on YouTube for almost any area of the world. No need to endanger others with your amateur flying. Just look it up on YouTube.

    Reply

    • Drones under the weight of 250g are not loud. As to them being annoying, that is certainly a subjective opinion, not fact. As to what qualifies as “unnecessary,” again, subjective. No one is being “endangered.” Your animosity has left you jaded, and your comment is merely an opinion, and is not based in fact at all. There is a reason drone pilots have to take certifications and safety classes before operating. You’d do well to familiarize yourself with what is required before you go spouting hateful remarks to drone operators.

      Reply

    • Hi, I plan to get my drone but I don’t want to fly in Thailand. I want to take it to vietnam and cambodia. I plan to stay in Thailand for ten days before heading to other places, will it be a problem to carry? Should I leave it behind?

      Reply

  14. Hi I have a zino 2 plus. It has a very nice camera but definitely ways less than 2kg.
    Every website I’ve visited says different things. Can anyone please clarify.

    My drone has a camera but weighs less than 2 kg. Do I have to register it?

    Can I register it online? I’m only in phuket for 10 days. Will it be worth taking?

    I understand I have to have insurance. Can anyone please suggest a reputable insurance provider please.

    Thanks for your help.

    Reply

    • According to the below statement which published on this site, you must register your drone.

      “All drones equipped with cameras must be registered.”

      Good luck and have fun flying.

      Reply

      • “All drones equipped with cameras AND over 2kg…” Read the entire thing as it relates to Notes for Recreational fliers.. the area where you got that statement from, is under “general rules..” Meaning, that’s a GENERAL rule. Specifics follow under the headline of Notes for Recreational fliers.

        Reply

  15. These two points in your list of important rules seem to contradict each other:

    Drones must not be flown within 30 meters (98 feet) of any person, vehicle, construction, or building.

    You cannot approach people, vehicles, or buildings closer than 50 meters.

    Is it 30 metres or 50 metres?

    Reply

    • Mark, your drones must be 30 meters from any person, vehicle. construction or building. We have removed the reference which was an older recommendation regarding the pilot (which is not found in the current regulation). Thanks for your inquiry.

      Reply

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