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Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore

Unmanned aircraft pilot licence

Learn about the requirements for having an Unmanned Aircraft Pilot Licence for various unmanned aircraft operations, and how to apply.

Last updated 9 May 2026

UAPL requirements 

You must obtain an Unmanned Aircraft Pilot Licence (UAPL) if you operate your UA, including drones, for any of the following purposes, regardless of the UA’s weight: 

  • commercial 

  • non-recreational 

  • non-educational 

You must also obtain a UAPL if you operate UAs, including drones, weighing more than 7kg for any of the following purposes: 

  • recreational  

  • educational  

Exemption 

A UAPL is not required if the UA is operated indoors and is not publicly accessible.  

This exemption does not apply to any of the following: 

  • a sporting activity such as a competitive race or tournament

  • an event that is attended by more than 50 individuals at any time during the event 

These UAPL requirements ensure that drones and other unmanned aircraft are operated safely in Singapore.

For details, refer to the Advisory Circular on Unmanned Aircraft Pilot Licence.  

How to apply for a UAPL 

To obtain a UAPL: 

  1. Attend training (optional) 

You are strongly encouraged to attend a training course conducted by any CAAS-approved UA Training and Assessment Organisation (UATO) before attempting the theory test and practical assessment.  

Note: CAAS does not regulate the fees charged by UATOs, which may vary.

  1. Register for a CAPELS account  

Register for a Civil Aviation Personnel Licensing System (CAPELS) account to obtain your Personal Identification (PID) number.  

A PID is required for the theory test and practical assessment.  

  1. Pass theory test 

Pass a theory test administered by CAAS.  

Book your theory test on https://caas.studyworks.com.sg/.  

  1. Pass practical assessment

Pass a practical assessment conducted by an Authorised Flight Examiner from a UATO. 

To book your practical assessment, contact a CAAS-approved UATO directly.  

Note: CAAS does not regulate the fees charged by UATOs, which may vary.

  1. Submit application

Submit your UAPL application on CAPELS.  

You must be at least 16 years old at the point of application. 

  1. View digital licence

Once approved, you can view your digital licence on the SGFlight mobile app. 


Failure to comply is an offence as summarised by the table below:


Offence 

First offence 

Subsequent offences 

Failure to comply with UAPL requirements 


Fine of up to S$50,000 or imprisonment of up to 2 years, or both 

Fine of up to S$100,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 5 years 


Failure to produce valid documents (such as a UA Basic Training Certificate, UAPL, Activity Permit, or Operator Permit) during verification checks by CAAS enforcement officers 

Fine of up to S$20,000 

Fine of up to S$40,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 15 months 

Contact information 

Unmanned Systems Group
Contact us using the Enquiries & Feedback Form.