Any unmanned aircraft (UA) with a total weight exceeding 250 grams must be registered with CAAS before operation in Singapore. The only exception is UA operated solely for light shows under a Class 1 Activity Permit. This requirement covers drones, radio-controlled aircraft, and remote-controlled kites that exceed the weight threshold.
Who Must Register
Registration applies to any individual or organisation operating a UA above 250 grams in Singapore. The registrant must be at least 16 years of age. For organisations, a designated representative handles the registration on behalf of the entity.
The 250-gram threshold is measured as the total take-off weight, including the battery, propeller guards, and any attached payload such as a camera gimbal.
The Two-Step Registration Process
Step 1: Purchase a Registration Label
Each drone requires a unique registration label, priced at S$25 per label. Two purchasing options are available:
- Online — Through caas.shop.singpost.com. Delivery takes up to 5 working days via standard SingPost mail.
- Over the counter — At designated SingPost post offices. Available for immediate collection.
The label is a physical sticker with a unique alphanumeric code. It is designed to be tamper-evident — once affixed, it cannot be cleanly removed and reused on another aircraft.
Step 2: Complete Online Registration
After receiving the label, the owner must:
- Affix the label on a visible, non-detachable part of the aircraft's main body (not on a removable battery or propeller guard)
- Take a clear photograph of the aircraft with the label visibly attached
- Log in to the CAAS UA Portal and submit the registration form with the photo and aircraft details
Required information during online submission includes the aircraft make, model, serial number (if available), total weight, label code, and the registrant's identification details.
Label Placement Guidelines
- Must be on the main body — not on a battery, propeller, or removable accessory
- Must be visible without disassembly
- Must not obstruct sensors, vents, or moving parts
- Surface should be clean and dry before application for best adhesion
Weight Categories and Requirements
| Weight Category | Registration | Operator Permit | Activity Permit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 250 g | Not required | Not required | May be required (based on activity/location) |
| 250 g – 7 kg | Required | Required for non-recreational use | Based on activity class |
| 7 kg – 25 kg | Required | Required | Class 1 for educational >7 kg |
| Above 25 kg | Required | Required | Class 1 mandatory |
CFMS Tracker Attachment
Since June 2022, all registered drones operated under an Operator Permit must carry a CFMS (Centralised Flight Management System) tracking device. The tracker transmits the drone's position to a central server, enabling CAAS to monitor airspace usage.
As of December 2025, B-RID (Broadcast Remote Identification) modules are additionally required. B-RID broadcasts the drone's identity and position locally via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, allowing nearby receivers — including law enforcement — to identify the aircraft without relying on server connectivity.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Singapore imposes significant penalties for operating unregistered drones or violating airspace rules:
Providing false or misleading information during the registration process is a separate offence, carrying a maximum fine of S$10,000 and/or up to 6 months imprisonment.
Registration Portal and Contacts
- UA Portal: esoms.caas.gov.sg/uaportal
- Label Purchase: caas.shop.singpost.com
- CAAS UA Registration Info: caas.gov.sg — UA Registration
- CAAS Enquiries: caas_ats_ansp@caas.gov.sg
Content last reviewed: April 3, 2026 — Sources: CAAS UA registration page, dronefly.sg registration guide, Singapore Statutes Online