Drones have created exciting new career opportunities and revolutionised industries. However, if you plan to work with drones, you need the proper certifications.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about commercial drone licences in Australia, including who needs one, the different types, the benefits of continued learning, and how to get started.
Who Needs a Commercial Drone Licence in Australia?
If you use a drone for work, you are likely to need some form of certification. That applies even if you fly a small drone, and even if you aren’t a full-time drone pilot.
Whether you need a commercial drone licence, advanced training, or a less formal accreditation depends on the nature of your drone operations.
However, the key thing to know is that unless you’re flying for fun or sport, you are likely to need certification.
Understanding the Different Types of Commercial Drone Licences in Australia
Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) oversees the use of drones nationwide. CASA has introduced a certification framework to ensure drones are used safely and responsibly as they become more widespread across Australia.
Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Operator Accreditation
The entry-level Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) operator accreditation is free, completed online, and mandatory if your work involves flying drones that are:
- 250g or lighter (micro RPA).
- 250g to 2kg (very small RPA).
- 2kg to 25kg and only flown over your own land (small RPA).
These are known as the “excluded” drone categories because you don’t need a commercial drone licence to fly them. However, you typically can’t get insurance or realistically do much more than hobby flights with RPA accreditation, which is why we don’t recommend it for aspiring professionals.
Remote Pilot Licence (RePL)
A Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) is seen as the industry standard for commercial drone pilots. Holding your RePL is generally required if you want to hold insurance as a drone pilot, fly for a business with a Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC; see below) or apply for your own ReOC.
RePL certification requires you to undergo theoretical and practical training through a CASA-certified drone training provider like Global Drone Solutions.
On completion, your RePL will show the type and weight category of drones that you are licenced to fly. The standard RePL enables you to fly drones up to 7kg, and you can undertake endorsements for higher weight classes:
- Less than 25kg.
- Less than 150kg (certain types only).
- Over 150kg (certain types only).
RePLs never expire, and there is no minimum age requirement.
Note: You don’t need RPA operator accreditation if you hold a RePL. Obtaining your RePL gives you greater flexibility, better job prospects, and more confidence. This is why we recommend RePL certification over the less formal RPA accreditation.
Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC)
Officially called a “Remote Piloted Aircraft Operator’s Certificate,” a ReOC is for businesses that operate drones. Essentially, a ReOC enables you to:
- Trade as a drone service provider.
- Employ drone pilots who hold a RePL.
- Apply for permission to operate outside of standard drone safety rules.
Importantly, a ReOC doesn’t authorise you to fly a drone. You must either hold a commercial drone licence or employ RePL-certified pilots.
The Benefits of Holding a Commercial Drone Licence
While you can work as a drone pilot in a limited capacity with an RPA operator accreditation, holding a proper commercial drone licence offers significant advantages:
- Advanced operations: Fly larger drones, operate at night (with approval), and fly in controlled airspace (with approval).
- Increased credibility: Establish trust with clients by demonstrating your professional qualifications and commitment to safety.
- Broader opportunities: Work with top-tier companies, command higher rates, or start your own drone services business*.
- Obtain insurance: RePL certification enables you to take out drone pilot insurance to protect the public, your equipment, and your finances.
- Peace of mind: Operate with confidence, knowing you’re adhering to best practices and safety standards.
*ReOC required.
A Quick Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Commercial Drone Licence
Remote Pilot Licence (RePL)
- Obtain an ARN through CASA’s online portal.
- Enrol with a CASA-certified training provider like Global Drone Solutions.
- Complete theoretical and practical training to gain experience and knowledge.
- Receive your licence; after training with us, we’ll apply for your RePL on your behalf.
Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC)
- Prepare supporting documentation, such as an operational manual detailing procedures and safety measures.
- Submit your application to CASA via an industry delegate.
- Pass a Chief Remote Pilot (CRP) assessment in an extended interview with CASA to prove your operational and management abilities.
- Receive your ReOC; processing can take up to 70 days.
We support you through every stage, collaborating with you to generate compliant documentation, submitting your application through an industry delegate, and preparing you for your CASA interview through a 1-day CRP course.
Can RePL Holders Expand Capabilities with a ReOC?
Yes, RePL holders can apply for a ReOC. Many drone pilots start with a RePL and progress to a ReOC as their skills develop, and when they’re ready to launch their own business.
Commercial Drone Licence Costs: How Much Will It Set You Back?
We recommend you budget around $1,300 to $3,000 for a RePL certification with Global Drone Solutions for the best training Australia wide. This includes:
- All course materials.
- Expert Instructors
- Hands-on training on multiple drones
- All CASA application fees.
- Free drone business resource kit (valued at $3,000).
We also offer multiple packages that bundle RePL certification with, 25kg Endorsements, Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate (AROC) training and ReOC and CRP training offering some generous savings. Explore our commercial drone licence courses with detailed information about costs, inclusions, and prerequisites, here.
Earn Your Commercial Drone Licence with Australia’s Best Drone Training Provider
Earning a commercial drone licence isn’t just about compliance with CASA regulations. It’s about developing your capabilities and confidence to stand out in a competitive industry.
As Australia’s most-awarded CASA-certified drone training provider, Global Drone Solutions is the best choice for certification. Our courses are thorough, hands-on, and tailored to ensure you gain not only the required skills but also the confidence to operate at the highest standards.
