- RePL training generally costs around $995 to $1,750 as of mid 2026, depending on the weight category, course and training provider.
- Common add-ons include an AROC at around $425 to $500 and an MR25e endorsement at around $525 to $600.
- ReOC training may cost around $1,500 to $2,500, depending on the provider and the scope of your operation.
- Budget for extras where they apply, including drone registration, public liability insurance, medical requirements and further approvals.
- Package deals that bundle RePL with AROC, MR25e or ReOC training are usually cheaper than buying each course separately.
Earning your drone licence in Australia can give your career the head start or boost it needs. With drone rules and regulations constantly being refined, it is essential to stay up to date with drone safety and licensing requirements.
Drone licence costs vary depending on the type of licence, certification or endorsement you are looking to obtain. If you are at the beginning of your career, you may simply be looking for your Remote Pilot Licence (RePL), but many training providers, including Global Drone Solutions, offer package deals that include additional certifications and endorsements.
Here is everything you need to know about drone licence costs in Australia.
Average Costs of Getting a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL)
A Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) is the CASA licence held by an individual remote pilot, allowing them to operate the categories of remotely piloted aircraft covered by the licence.
The cost of getting your RePL will vary depending on the weight category, training provider and course you choose. As a general guide, you can expect to pay around $995 to $1,750 for RePL training as of mid 2026.
If you choose a package that includes additional certifications or endorsements, the total cost will increase.
Additional training can include:
- Around $425 to $500 for an Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate (AROC).
- Around $525 to $600 for a Multirotor 25kg Endorsement (MR25e).
Once obtained, your RePL does not expire, although you must continue to meet the applicable requirements to legally operate your drone.
Indicative Training Costs at a Glance
| Qualification | What it covers | Indicative cost |
|---|---|---|
| Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) | Licence for the individual remote pilot | Around $995 to $1,750 |
| Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate (AROC) | Use of aviation radio where required for the operation | Around $425 to $500 |
| Multirotor 25kg Endorsement (MR25e) | Operation of applicable multirotor drones in the relevant weight category | Around $525 to $600 |
| Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operator’s Certificate (ReOC) | Operating a drone service for hire or reward | Around $1,500 to $2,500 |
These figures are a general guide only. Always confirm current pricing with your chosen provider.
Hidden Expenses: Registration, Medicals and Insurance
The cost of your drone licence is not the only expense to consider. Depending on how you intend to operate your drone, you may also need to budget for:
- Drone registration: Drones that are required to be registered must be registered with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), with applicable registration fees depending on the type of operation.
- Public liability insurance: If you are operating drones professionally, appropriate insurance can help protect you against potential property damage or injury claims. Costs vary depending on your coverage and business.
- Medical requirements: Depending on the type of drone operation and role, you may need to meet applicable medical requirements. The cost will depend on the assessment required.
- Additional training or approvals: Certain drone operations may require additional endorsements, certifications or approvals.
These costs vary depending on your reason for drone operation. Not every drone pilot will need all of them, particularly if they are flying recreationally or operating under an applicable excluded category.
If you are unsure what you need, speak with your drone training provider or check the latest requirements on the CASA drones website before beginning your training.
The Cost of Obtaining a Remote Operator’s Certificate (ReOC)
A Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operator’s Certificate (ReOC) is different from an RePL. An RePL is a licence for the individual remote pilot, while an ReOC relates to the individual or organisation operating a drone service.
An ReOC can allow you to operate a drone service for hire or reward and conduct RPA operations that are not available under certain excluded categories, subject to the relevant requirements and approvals.
The cost of obtaining an ReOC will vary depending on the training provider, the scope of your operation and whether you enrol in a package alongside other training. As a general guide, ReOC training may cost around $1,500 to $2,500, although you should check current pricing with your chosen provider.
Is a Drone Licence Worth the Investment? (ROI Analysis)
If you are wondering whether getting your drone licence is worth the investment, the answer depends on your career goals and the type of drone work you want to pursue.
An RePL can help you pursue opportunities across a growing range of industries, including:
- Construction.
- Infrastructure.
- Agriculture.
- Public safety.
- Entertainment.
- Tourism.
- And more.
Investing in additional certifications or endorsements alongside your RePL can also expand the types of drone operations you are trained and qualified to undertake, depending on the requirements of your chosen career.
How to Save Money on Drone Training and Certification
One of the most cost-effective ways to complete your drone training and certification is to look for a provider that offers package deals. Some drone training providers offer AROC, MR25e or ReOC training alongside RePL courses, which can provide better value than completing each course separately.
A few practical ways to reduce your total spend:
- Map out the licences and endorsements your intended drone work actually requires before enrolling, so you avoid paying for training you will not use.
- Compare bundled course packages against the cost of the same qualifications booked individually.
- Complete related endorsements at the same time rather than returning for separate short courses later.
At Global Drone Solutions, you can access high-quality, flexible drone courses in Australia, from standalone licences through to training packages designed to help you kickstart or advance your career in the drone industry.
Combining theory training with hands-on, instructor-led flight practice, you will develop the knowledge and practical skills you need for safe and compliant drone operations.
Browse our drone courses today and take the next step towards your career in the drone industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a drone licence cost in Australia?
As a general guide, RePL training costs around $995 to $1,750 as of mid 2026, depending on the weight category, course and training provider. Additional endorsements and certificates increase the total cost.
Does a drone licence expire in Australia?
No. Once issued, your RePL does not expire. However, you must continue to meet the applicable requirements to legally operate your drone, and you may need further training or endorsements to fly categories not covered by your licence.
What other costs should I budget for beyond the course fee?
Depending on your operation, you may need to budget for drone registration with CASA, public liability insurance, applicable medical requirements, and any additional endorsements or approvals your work requires.
Is it cheaper to buy a drone training package?
Usually, yes. Packages that bundle RePL training with AROC, MR25e or ReOC training generally cost less than completing each course separately, provided the included qualifications match the drone work you plan to do.
