Drone rules in Thailand are actually very simple and straightforward.
If you bring a drone from overseas, you get 30 days (or before your first take-off) to complete the registrations:
• NBTC → drone registration
• CAAT → pilot registration
• Insurance → mandatory for CAAT
The NBTC fee is just 214 THB, and the total cost for NBTC + CAAT + Insurance usually comes to 1,100–1,600 THB, depending on your drone’s size/weight.
And yes — any drone with a camera must be registered in Thailand. No exceptions.
A new rule introduced in late September makes it even stricter:
If you buy a drone inside Thailand, the store must register it with NBTC before handing it over to you. They cannot deliver or release the drone without completing NBTC registration.
Operational rules
- Visual line of sight: You must be able to see your drone at all times.
- Do not fly within
9 kilometers of any airport or temporary airfield without special authorization.
- Avoid restricted areas, such as military zones, government buildings, hospitals, and national parks, unless you have proper permission.
- Prohibited activities:
- Do not fly over crowds, large gatherings, or events.
- Night flights are prohibited unless specifically authorized and the drone has lights.
- Do not fly into or near clouds.
- Do not transport hazardous materials, including laser devices.
- Takeoff and landing:
- Takeoff and landing zones must be unobstructed.
- Ensure you have permission from the property owner for takeoff and landing.Â