Meta description: Learn how to get a drone licence australia in 2026, including RePL steps, costs, jobs and training options. Start your career today.
Short Answer: How Do You Get a Drone Licence in Australia?
To get a drone licence australia, apply for a CASA Aviation Reference Number, complete approved RePL theory and practical training, pass the assessments, and lodge your licence application. Most professional pilots also need AROC training and operate under a ReOC held by their employer or business.
What Is a Drone Licence in Australia?
The official name for a commercial drone licence is a Remote Pilot Licence, or RePL. CASA, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, issues this licence.
A RePL shows that you can plan and conduct drone operations safely. It covers aviation law, airspace, weather, human factors, emergency procedures and practical flight skills.
You may also hear people use these terms:
- Drone licence
- Drone pilot licence
- UAV licence
- Remote pilot licence
- Commercial drone licence
In most professional situations, these terms refer to the RePL.
However, a RePL is only one part of a compliant commercial operation. You may also need:
- A CASA Aviation Reference Number, or ARN
- Drone registration
- Operator accreditation for some small-drone operations
- An AROC, or Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate
- Access to a ReOC, or Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operator’s Certificate
- Public liability insurance
- Additional approvals for higher-risk work
The exact requirements depend on the aircraft, location, purpose and operating conditions. Therefore, always check the current CASA RePL guidance before you begin work.
Do You Need a Commercial Drone Licence in Australia?
You usually need a RePL when you want to fly drones as part of professional work. This includes flying for payment, reward, employment or business benefit.
Examples include:
- Aerial photography for a real estate agency
- Construction progress surveys
- Mining and infrastructure inspections
- Agricultural spraying or spreading
- Powerline and solar farm inspections
- Mapping and surveying
- Film and television production
- Asset cleaning
- Emergency services support
Some limited, low-risk operations may fit within CASA’s excluded category. These operations generally involve small drones and strict operating conditions.
Even so, a RePL remains the strongest foundation for a professional career. It gives employers confidence and prepares you for more complex work.
You may also work under an existing operator’s ReOC. In that case, you do not always need your own ReOC. The ReOC holder remains responsible for the operation, procedures and approvals.
RePL and ReOC: What Is the Difference?
| Credential | Who holds it? | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| RePL | An individual pilot | Shows that you are trained and competent to fly a specified aircraft category |
| ReOC | A business or operator | Allows an organisation to conduct approved commercial drone operations |
| AROC | An individual operator | Certifies you to use aviation radio equipment |
| ARN | An individual | Identifies you within CASA’s aviation system |
| Operator accreditation | An eligible operator | Supports some small-drone operations under standard conditions |
A simple way to remember the difference is this:
The RePL qualifies the pilot. The ReOC authorises the operation.
How to Become a Drone Pilot in Australia
The pathway is practical and straightforward. However, good preparation makes the process easier.
Step 1: Decide What Work You Want to Do
Start with your career goal. Different industries use different aircraft, software and operating procedures.
For example:
- Photography may require a small multirotor and strong camera skills.
- Surveying may require mapping software and accurate mission planning.
- Agriculture may require a larger aircraft category and chemical safety training.
- Mining may require site inductions and specialist data skills.
- Night work may require additional training and operating approvals.
Your target industry should guide your RePL category and course choice.
Step 2: Apply for Your ARN
An ARN is your unique CASA identification number. You use it for aviation licence and registration matters.
Apply through CASA’s online systems before your training begins. Your training provider will generally need your ARN for the RePL application.
Step 3: Choose a CASA-Approved Training Provider
Choose a provider that offers more than a quick online certificate. Look for:
- CASA-approved RePL training
- Experienced aviation instructors
- Practical flight assessment
- Training aircraft supplied
- Clear support before and after assessment
- AROC options
- ReOC guidance
- Industry and employment pathways
- Current course information and transparent pricing
Ace Aviation has trained more than 4,000 students and operates under CASA.ReOC.1421. Its training and support model covers licensing, compliance, commercial operations and employment pathways.
You can compare current pathways on the Ace Aviation courses page.
Step 4: Complete RePL Theory
RePL theory gives you the knowledge needed to make safe decisions.
Common subjects include:
- CASA rules and air law
- Airspace classifications
- Aerodrome restrictions
- Meteorology and weather risks
- Navigation and charts
- Human factors
- Communication procedures
- Risk management
- Emergency procedures
- Mission planning
- Aircraft limitations
Theory may be delivered online, in a classroom or through a blended model. Ace Aviation provides online study, virtual classroom sessions and practical training.
You do not need previous aviation experience. However, you should be comfortable reading and understanding aviation material in English.
Step 5: Attend Practical Flight Training
Practical training turns theory into safe, repeatable habits.
You will normally practise:
- Pre-flight inspections
- Aircraft setup
- Battery and equipment checks
- Take-off and landing
- Hovering and controlled manoeuvres
- Direction changes
- Navigation exercises
- Emergency procedures
- Lost-link responses
- Site risk assessments
- Post-flight checks
Training aircraft are often provided. This means you can focus on learning instead of buying equipment before you understand your career direction.
Step 6: Pass Your Assessments
The RePL pathway includes theory and practical assessment.
The theory assessment tests your understanding of aviation and operating requirements. The practical assessment tests your ability to control the aircraft safely.
Your assessor will look for:
- Correct preparation
- Safe aircraft control
- Sound situational awareness
- Compliance with instructions
- Correct emergency responses
- Clear communication
- Professional decision-making
If you need more support, ask your trainer early. Strong providers help students close knowledge gaps before the final assessment.
Step 7: Receive Your RePL
After you complete the requirements, your training provider helps lodge the RePL application with CASA.
Your licence applies to the aircraft category and weight class covered by your training. Common pathways include sub-7 kg and sub-25 kg multirotor categories. Larger aircraft require additional training and ratings.
A RePL does not replace operational approval. You still need to operate within the rules of your employer’s ReOC or your own approved operation.
Step 8: Add AROC and Other Skills
An AROC can support work that involves aviation radio communications. It is especially useful for pilots working near controlled airspace or in structured aviation environments.
You can explore a combined RePL and AROC pathway if you want a broader entry-level qualification.
Later, you may add:
- Night visual line of sight training
- BVLOS or beyond visual line of sight theory
- EVLOS or extended visual line of sight skills
- Agricultural drone training
- Mapping and photogrammetry
- Chief Remote Pilot training
- Certificate III in Aviation
- Specialist cleaning or inspection skills
Key Facts About Getting a Drone Licence Australia
| Question | 2026 answer |
|---|---|
| Official licence name | Remote Pilot Licence, or RePL |
| Regulator | CASA |
| Is prior flying experience required? | Usually no |
| Is an aviation medical required? | A standard RePL generally does not require a manned aviation medical |
| Does the RePL expire? | The licence is generally treated as ongoing, but competence and compliance remain your responsibility |
| Can you work under another company’s ReOC? | Yes, if the operator authorises and supervises your work |
| Do commercial drones need registration? | Commercial aircraft may need registration, depending on the aircraft and operation |
| Is AROC always required? | No, but it can be important for radio and controlled-airspace work |
| How long does training take? | Many pathways combine online study with several days of practical training |
| What does CASA RePL cost? | It varies by aircraft category, provider, inclusions and additional certificates |
| Can you use your own drone? | Some providers supply aircraft for training and assessment |
| Can a RePL lead to employment? | Yes, across sectors such as surveying, agriculture, construction, inspection and media |
CASA RePL Cost: What Should You Budget For?
The casa repl cost depends on the training package and the work you plan to do.
Common cost factors include:
- RePL aircraft category
- Weight rating
- AROC inclusion
- Night operations training
- ReOC setup support
- Chief Remote Pilot training
- Certificate III study
- Travel and accommodation
- Reassessment fees
- Equipment and insurance
Ace Aviation’s current course page lists packages from entry-level RePL and AROC training through to business-ready and enterprise pathways. For example, the Silver package includes RePL training, AROC, night VLOS training and additional career support. Prices and promotions can change, so check the current course packages before enrolling.
A practical budget should also include:
- Drone registration
- Public liability insurance
- Batteries and maintenance
- Flight planning software
- Mapping or editing software
- Personal protective equipment
- Travel to client sites
- Business registration and accounting
The cheapest course is not always the lowest-cost option. Poor training can lead to failed assessments, damaged aircraft, rejected jobs and compliance problems.
Where Can You Train in Australia?
Ace Aviation provides training across Australia and supports students through online theory and practical sessions.
Brisbane
A drone course Brisbane pathway suits students in Queensland who want to enter construction, agriculture, surveying, inspection or media.
Sydney
A drone course Sydney option can support students targeting property, infrastructure, utilities, film and government work.
Melbourne
A drone course Melbourne pathway is useful for students interested in construction, mapping, energy, media and commercial inspections.
Perth
A drone pilot course Perth can help candidates pursue mining, resources, surveying, infrastructure and agricultural opportunities.
Hobart
Drone training Hobart gives Tasmanian students access to a professional pathway without relocating interstate.
Ace Aviation also has a global footprint, with training and industry activity across Australia, Singapore, Dubai, Korea and Malaysia. This international perspective helps keep the learning relevant to modern aviation operations.
What Jobs Can You Get With a Drone Licence?
A RePL is a starting point. Your career value grows when you combine it with industry knowledge.
Surveying and Mapping
Surveying companies use drones to create aerial maps, orthomosaics, point clouds and three-dimensional site models.
You may need:
- Mapping software skills
- Ground control knowledge
- Accurate mission planning
- Data processing skills
- Strong reporting ability
Construction
Construction teams use drones for progress reports, site documentation, stockpile measurements and safety reviews.
A pilot who understands construction workflows can deliver more useful results than a pilot who only captures video.
Mining and Resources
Mining work can include pit surveys, haul-road checks, rehabilitation monitoring and infrastructure inspection.
These roles often require site inductions, strict safety procedures and experience with large organisations.
Agriculture
Agricultural pilots may support crop monitoring, spraying, spreading and livestock management.
Large agricultural aircraft require additional training and careful attention to state chemical laws. CASA licensing alone may not cover every agricultural requirement.
Inspection and Utilities
Drones can inspect roofs, solar farms, towers, bridges, powerlines and industrial assets.
Thermal imaging, reporting and asset-management skills can improve your employment prospects.
Media and Real Estate
Aerial video remains useful for property, tourism, events, marketing and film.
However, professional clients expect more than attractive footage. They also expect safe planning, reliable delivery and legal compliance.
How to Find Drone Pilot Jobs in Australia
Many new pilots focus only on earning the licence. However, your next goal should be building evidence of capability.
Use this approach:
- Choose one or two target industries.
- Learn the software used in those industries.
- Create a simple portfolio.
- Practise writing risk assessments and job plans.
- Complete relevant site inductions.
- Connect with operators and employers.
- Apply for entry-level remote pilot roles.
- Continue building logged experience.
Ace graduates receive access to DroneWork, a platform connecting qualified pilots with commercial tasks, employers and career opportunities.
You can also review drone pilot career pathways to understand the industries hiring remote pilots.
How Altitude+ Supports Your Career
A licence is important, but professional development does not stop after assessment.
Ace Aviation’s Altitude+ program provides ongoing student benefits designed to support long-term growth. Depending on the pathway, benefits may include:
- Refresher training access
- Industry events
- Career development support
- Learning resources
- Networking opportunities
- Access to commercial opportunities
- Continued guidance after graduation
This approach helps students move from “licensed” to “work-ready”. Explore why students choose Ace Aviation for more information about the broader training ecosystem.
Common Mistakes New Drone Pilots Make
Mistake 1: Assuming a Small Drone Removes Every Requirement
A lightweight drone may fit an excluded category. However, you still need to follow CASA rules, registration requirements and operating limits.
Mistake 2: Treating the RePL as a Business Licence
A RePL qualifies you as a pilot. It does not automatically authorise your entire business operation.
You may need a ReOC, operations manual, insurance and client-specific procedures.
Mistake 3: Buying Expensive Equipment Too Early
Start with training and a clear career plan. Then choose equipment that matches your target work.
Mistake 4: Ignoring Airspace
Airspace restrictions can change by location and operation. Always check current information before flight.
Mistake 5: Flying Over People
Standard operating conditions place strict limits on flying over people and near people. A busy event or construction site needs careful planning.
Mistake 6: Forgetting Privacy and State Laws
CASA manages aviation safety. Privacy, trespass, surveillance and chemical use may involve other laws.
Mistake 7: Focusing Only on Flying
Commercial clients pay for outcomes. Learn reporting, communication, data handling and customer service.
CASA Considerations for Professional Pilots
Before every operation, confirm the following:
- You are authorised by the correct operator.
- Your aircraft is registered where required.
- Your licence covers the aircraft category.
- Your operation follows the relevant ReOC.
- Your risk assessment is complete.
- You have checked weather and airspace.
- You understand nearby aerodrome restrictions.
- You have a safe emergency procedure.
- You maintain visual line of sight when required.
- You stay within height and distance limits.
- You keep clear of people and property.
- You protect personal information.
- You follow workplace safety procedures.
Standard operations commonly involve daylight flying, visual line of sight and a maximum height of 120 metres above ground level. Night operations, controlled airspace, BVLOS and flights near people may need additional approval or procedures.
For current requirements, review CASA’s drone information. Regulations and guidance can change. Therefore, use current official information before conducting paid work.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the official drone licence in Australia?
The official licence is the Remote Pilot Licence, commonly called a RePL. CASA recognises it for individual remote pilots.
2. Do I need a RePL to fly a drone commercially?
For most professional operations, yes. Some limited small-drone work may fit an excluded category, but a RePL supports broader career options.
3. What is the difference between a RePL and a ReOC?
A RePL qualifies an individual pilot. A ReOC authorises an organisation or operator to conduct approved commercial drone operations.
4. Can I work under someone else’s ReOC?
Yes. Many pilots work for an established operator that already holds a ReOC. The operator must authorise your work and provide the correct procedures.
5. How much does a drone licence cost in Australia?
Costs vary by provider and package. RePL-only, RePL and AROC, business-ready and enterprise packages have different prices.
6. How long does it take to get a RePL?
Many students complete online theory before attending several practical training and assessment days. Your timeline depends on study pace and course availability.
7. Do I need previous drone experience?
No. Approved training is designed for beginners and experienced operators. Basic technology confidence can still help.
8. Is there a minimum age for a RePL?
CASA requirements can depend on the licence pathway and current rules. Confirm eligibility with your training provider before enrolling.
9. Does a RePL expire?
The RePL is generally treated as an ongoing qualification. However, pilots must maintain competence and follow current CASA requirements.
10. Do I need an AROC?
You may need an AROC when your work involves aviation radio operations. It is also a useful addition for pilots targeting controlled-airspace work.
11. Can I complete RePL theory online?
Many providers offer online or blended theory. You still need practical training and assessment with an approved provider.
12. Do I need to buy a drone before training?
Usually not. Training providers may supply aircraft for practical sessions and assessment.
13. Can I fly a drone at night after getting a RePL?
Not automatically. Night operations require appropriate procedures, training and approvals. Check your operator’s authorisations.
14. Can I fly beyond visual line of sight?
BVLOS operations require specific approval and procedures. A standard RePL alone does not automatically permit BVLOS flying.
15. Can I use a drone for real estate photography?
Yes, but paid real estate work is commercial activity. You must follow CASA rules and any requirements applying to your operator.
16. What industries hire drone pilots?
Surveying, mapping, construction, agriculture, mining, utilities, infrastructure, media, real estate and emergency services all use drones.
17. How can I find drone pilot jobs in Australia?
Build a focused portfolio, gain industry skills and connect with employers. Ace graduates can also access DroneWork opportunities.
18. Can I start a drone business after getting my RePL?
Yes. You may need an ABN, insurance, aircraft registration, a ReOC and an operations manual. The requirements depend on your operation.
19. What drone licence should I choose for agricultural work?
Agricultural work may require a larger RePL category, specialist aircraft training and compliance with state chemical laws. Choose training based on the aircraft and service.
20. Is a drone licence worth it?
A RePL can open the door to professional work and higher-value projects. Its value increases when combined with practical skills, industry knowledge and compliance support.
Summary: Start Your Drone Career in 2026
Getting a drone licence in Australia involves more than learning to control an aircraft. You need aviation knowledge, practical competence and a clear understanding of CASA compliance.
The usual pathway is:
- Apply for an ARN.
- Choose a CASA-approved RePL provider.
- Complete theory training.
- Attend practical flight training.
- Pass the theory and flight assessments.
- Add AROC or specialist training where needed.
- Work under an existing ReOC or establish your own.
- Build industry skills and pursue professional opportunities.
Ace Aviation combines CASA-approved training, practical instruction and career support. With more than 4,000 students trained, CASA.ReOC.1421, a global footprint and access to Altitude+ and DroneWork, the pathway continues beyond the licence.
Ready to start? Book your training at aaa.edu.au or call 1300 336 366.
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