Thailand drone laws for travelers

The trip, step by step

Bring it

Before the trip, only the insurance can be done: CAAT accepts a policy bought at home or in Thailand. Registration needs a Thai SIM, so plan for a day after landing before you fly. National parks and temples can still ban launch.

Register it

Register the drone with NBTC first: CAAT's UAS Portal checks the serial number against NBTC records. A UAS Portal account needs a Thai mobile number for the one-time code, which is why CAAT's guidance puts registration after arrival.

Fly it

CAAT requires registration for any drone with a camera, whatever its weight, for drones without a camera over 2 kg, and for drones over 25 kg. NBTC radio registration is also required, and so is third-party liability insurance of at least 1,000,000 baht for drones under 25 kg.

Map check

Avoid airports, military sites, national parks, crowds, and royal/security-sensitive areas. CAAT Notice No. 16, effective June 26, 2026, lifted the nationwide security restriction adopted during the Thai-Cambodian border tensions but keeps controlled districts in seven border provinces (Ubon Ratchathani, Si Sa Ket, Surin, Buri Ram, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Trat) closed; check the current notice before planning anything in the east.

Before you travel

1. 01Before travel: buy third-party liability insurance (at least 1,000,000 baht for drones under 25 kg).
2. 02After landing: buy a Thai SIM for the UAS Portal one-time code.
3. 03Register the drone with NBTC, then register the drone and pilot on CAAT's UAS Portal.
4. 04Carry the registrations and the insurance proof when you fly.
5. 05Get site permission for resorts, parks, temples, and commercial shoots.

Operating notes

Max altitude

90 m / 300 ft AGL is the common limit; verify current CAAT conditions.

Commercial work

Commercial use requires CAAT compliance and may need additional permissions.