Complete Document Checklist for Drone Registration (NBTC & CAAT 2024)
To legally register a drone in Thailand, you need to contact two main agencies: the NBTC for the radio frequency license, and the CAAT for the drone pilot registration. Both agencies require slightly different supporting documents.
To save time and prevent errors during submission, RRCT Drone Services has compiled a complete list of necessary documents for both Thais and foreigners.
Documents for NBTC Registration
For NBTC, the law states you must register within 30 days of purchasing the drone. Here are the required documents:
1. Thai ID Card or Passport
A copy of a valid Thai ID card (for Thais) with a certified true copy signature, or a Passport (for foreigners).
2. Proof of Purchase
Receipt or tax invoice with the buyer's name matching the registrant's name, and a clear purchase date to confirm ownership and registration within 30 days.
3. Full Drone Photo
A clear, non-blurry photo showing the entire drone.
4. Drone Serial Number (S/N) Photo
A photo of the sticker showing the Serial Number (S/N) on the drone, usually located in the battery compartment or under the drone. The image must be clear, and all letters and numbers must be readable.
5. Remote Control Serial Number (S/N) Photo
Like the drone, you also need a clear photo of the remote control's S/N.
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Documents for CAAT Registration
After you get your NBTC license, or while proceeding in parallel, CAAT requires the following additional documents:
- ID Card / Passport: Signed copy (same as NBTC).
- House Registration: Copy of the house registration page with the registrant's name (for Thais), signed.
- Drone Insurance Policy: A third-party insurance policy with coverage not less than 1,000,000 THB. This is an essential document for CAAT.
- NBTC Registration Proof: The license received from NBTC or proof of application.
- Drone and S/N Photos: Full drone photo and Serial Number photo, the same ones used for NBTC.
Additional Documents for Foreigners
Foreigners who want to fly a drone in Thailand need additional documents to verify their identity and entry into the country:
1. Passport page with photo and personal details.
2. Visa or Entry Stamp.
3. Work Permit or proof of address/accommodation in Thailand, such as a hotel booking.
4. Thai Phone Number that can actually be reached.
Tips and Precautions for Preparing Documents
- File Size: Government systems usually limit document file sizes to a maximum of 1 MB per file. It is recommended to compress images and PDFs before uploading.
- Taking S/N Photos: Small Serial Number stickers often have glare or focus issues. Take the photo in good lighting, use the macro mode on your phone, and make sure all characters are readable.
- Signatures: All document copies must be signed with a blue pen as certified true copies.
RRCT Provides Free Document Checks Before Registration
RRCT Drone Services offers a FREE document accuracy check service before actual registration for both Thais and foreigners, ensuring your documents are complete, correct, and won't be rejected.
Conclusion
Preparing complete and correct documents is the most important step in drone registration. If documents are incomplete or photos are unclear, the approval process can be delayed by weeks.
If you find preparing these documents complicated or are not comfortable navigating the online systems yourself, RRCT Drone Services is happy to upload the documents on your behalf and take care of the entire process until you receive both licenses.
Don't want the hassle? Let RRCT handle everything in one place
Professional team handles NBTC + CAAT registration completely, with 3rd party insurance. DJI partner, starting at ฿1,299