UA Pilot Licence

Users who operate their UA under the following conditions are required to obtain a UA Pilot Licence (UAPL):

  • For commercial purpose, or for a purpose that is neither recreational nor educational, regardless of the UA weight; or
  • For either recreational or educational purpose and with a UA of total weight exceeding 7kg.

However, a UAPL is not required if the UA is operated indoor and is not publicly accessible. This exemption does not apply to:

  • a sporting activity such as a competitive race or tournament; or
  • an event that is attended by more than 50 individuals at any time during the event.

To obtain a UAPL, users will need to do the following:

1

Register for a CAPELS account

Register for a Civil Aviation Personnel Licensing System (CAPELS) account to obtain a unique CAPELS Personal Identification (PID) number. This is required for the theory test and practical assessment. 
2

Pass theory test

Pass a theory test administered by CAAS.

Please click here to book the theory test.  
3

Pass practical assessment

Pass a practical assessment conducted by an Authorised Flight Examiner within a UA training and assessment organisation (UATO).

Please contact any CAAS-approved UATO directly to make an appointment. However, please note that as CAAS does not regulate the chargeable fees, they may vary between organisations.
4

Submit UAPL application

Submit a UAPL application via CAPELS. Users need to be at least 16 years old at the point of application.
5

View digital licence

Upon approval of the UAPL application, users can view their UAPL via the SGFlight mobile app.

*Users are strongly encouraged to complete a training programme with any CAAS-approved UATOs to acquire the relevant knowledge and practical experience before attempting the theory test and practical assessment. 

Refer to the advisory circular titled “Unmanned Aircraft Pilot Licence” for more information on UAPL requirements.

Important Note


Users who fail to comply with the UAPL requirements could face a fine of up to $50,000, or imprisonment not exceeding 2 years, or both for a first offence and up to $100,000, or imprisonment not exceeding 5 years, or both for a second or subsequent offence. In addition, users who fail to produce a valid UA Basic Training certificate, UAPL, activity or operator permit during the verification checks by CAAS enforcement officers could face a fine up to $20,000 for a first offence, and a fine of up to $40,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 15 months, or both for a second or subsequent offence.

If your organisation is interested in conducting UA-related training, please click here.