The process of radio equipment registration for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) owned by individuals

     The radio equipment registration for use in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is divided into two main parts: manufacturers and owners. The resolution of the Office of The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) prohibits drones from being used until they are registered. Violators may face a maximum penalty of 5 years imprisonment, a fine of up to 100,000 baht, or both. Therefore, the registration process has different procedures and conditions. For owners (individuals/ legal entities) of unmanned aerial vehicles for general use, registration with the Office of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission NBTC and the NBTC regional office is required, based on the following criteria.

1. Owners (individuals/ legal entities) of radio equipment for unmanned aerial vehicles – which use correct frequency and transmitting power as specified by NBTC regulations on criteria and conditions for authorizing the use of frequencies for unmanned aircraft operations for general use – are required to register by submitting an application for registration and attaching supporting documents, including a copy of the proof of purchase, receipt/ invoice from the seller, technical specifications of the communication radio equipment and accessories, or a copy of the supplier's declaration of conformity (SDoC) from the manufacturer/importer.
2. Owners of UAV radio equipment for general use, once registered with the NBTC, must comply with the Ministry of Transport's announcement on criteria for requesting permission and conditions for controlling or releasing unmanned aircraft, type of unmanned aircraft controlled by external flight control, B.E. 2558, and its amendments. Failure to comply may result in legal penalties under the Air Navigation Act, B.E. 2497.
3. Owners of UAV radio equipment for general use as personal effects, which are temporary and not intended for commercial purposes, and will be taken out of the Kingdom when it is no longer necessary, must apply for registration of UAV radio equipment for general use (Form Khor Tor 30), along with a self-declaration form of conformity for UAV radio equipment for personal use (Owner Declaration of Conformity) (Form CT 32). Examples include using the aircraft for mass media communication or filming by an international team, or research and development purposes.
4. In the case of foreigners importing UAV radio equipment for personal use, which is temporary and not intended for commercial purposes, they must submit an application for registration of the radio equipment for general use (Form Kor Tor 30), along with a self-declaration form of conformity for the radio equipment for personal use (Owner Declaration of Conformity) (Form Kor Tor 32).

Information as of 4 April 2023
Source: Digital Government Development Agency
Tel. +66 2612 6060