Remote Pilot Licence Made Simple: From Beginner to Certified RePL Holder

The Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) opens doors to professional drone operations across Australia’s thriving industries, including real estate, film, construction, and emergency services. 

While many operators of drones under 2kg can fly commercially without certification, securing a RePL significantly expands your operational capabilities.

We understand that navigating the certification process might seem daunting at first. However, the path to becoming a certified drone pilot is quite straightforward, requiring just 14 hours of theoretical knowledge and 5 to 6 hours of practical training. 

The best part? Once you obtain your RePL, it’s valid for life, making it a valuable investment in your professional future.

In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know about a Brisbane RePL training course, from initial requirements to certification completion. 

We will also help you understand whether you truly need one and how to navigate common challenges during the certification process.

Do You Actually Need a Remote Pilot Licence?

Deciding whether you need a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) primarily depends on your planned use for the drone. Unlike recreational drone enthusiasts, professional operators must adhere to specific regulatory requirements.

When you DON’T need a Remote Pilot Licence:

• If you’re flying solely for fun or recreation (no licence/registration needed)
• If you’re operating a drone weighing 2kg or less for commercial purposes (you’ll need operator accreditation)
• If you’re a landowner flying drones up to 25kg exclusively over your property

When you DO need a Remote Pilot Licence:

• If you’re operating drones weighing more than 2kg for commercial purposes
• If you want to fly outside the standard operating conditions
• If you’re operating drones heavier than 7kg that require additional certification

Essentially, the “excluded category” allows commercial operation without a RePL for drones under 2kg; however, you must still notify CASA before flying and operate within standard conditions.

Even if this is not something you need legally, you will get a lot of benefit from this. RePL holders can get special permission to fly at night, operate in a controlled airspace, fly closer to people (15m), and conduct operations beyond visual line of sight.

Furthermore, many professional-grade drones weigh over 2kg, meaning that without certification, you would be limited to more basic equipment. Insurance companies need proper certification, which is difficult to get without a RePL. 

Remember that a RePL alone isn’t enough for independent commercial operations. You’ll need to either work under someone else’s Remote Operator’s Certificate (ReOC) or obtain your own. The ReOC is what businesses require, whereas the RePL is what individual pilots need.

So, if you are serious about making a career in professional drone work in film production, surveying, or agriculture, obtaining your RePL offers the greatest flexibility and boosts your credibility as a professional operator.

Comparing Remote Pilot Certificate Options

Understanding the available training options is crucial for making an informed decision when selecting a pathway to obtain your remote pilot licence (RePL).

In-Person vs Online Training

Training formats offer distinct advantages based on your learning style. In-person training provides hands-on flight practice, immediate instructor feedback, and networking opportunities. 

Online courses, meanwhile, offer the flexibility to study at your own pace, typically cost less, and provide continuous access to materials for review. Some providers offer blended approaches that combine virtual classrooms with in-person practical sessions.

Course Components

Comprehensive RePL courses typically include:

• Theory components covering aviation regulations and drone operations
• Practical skills training for specific drone types and weight categories
• Aeronautical Radio Operator’s Certificate (AROC) – sometimes included in the cost
• Recognition of prior aviation experience (if applicable)

Your initial RePL can certify you for specific weight categories:

• Less than 7kg
• Less than 25kg
• Less than 150kg (type-specific ratings)
• More than 150kg (type-specific ratings)

Overcoming Common Challenges in RePL Certification

Many aspiring drone pilots face significant hurdles on their journey to becoming certified. Despite the structured nature of the RePL certification process, these challenges can be overcome with proper preparation and strategy.

The theory component of the RePL favours factual rote learning over depth of understanding. This approach has resulted in some highly competent drone operators initially failing the theory component. 

To tackle this challenge, dedicate at least two weeks to focused study time before taking your knowledge test. 

Working smart is more effective than working hard – approximately one-third to half of the test questions typically cover aircraft operations, so allocate your study time accordingly.

Creating a condensed ‘cram sheet’ with key concepts can significantly enhance your revision efficiency. Take multiple practice tests to familiarise yourself with question formats and identify knowledge gaps. 

For the CAA Drone Theory Test, you’ll face 40 multiple-choice questions requiring a pass mark of 30 (75%), whereas the Australian BVLOS exam requires a pass rate of 70%.

On the practical side, many candidates report inadequate training in essential skills. Common gaps include proper drone setup, troubleshooting, emergency procedures, and automated mission planning. 

Accordingly, supplementing your official training with additional hands-on practice is highly beneficial. Consider seeking a mentor or joining drone enthusiast groups for extra flying opportunities.

Time management presents another substantial challenge for many candidates. Develop a detailed schedule allocating specific time blocks for work, personal commitments, and RePL studies. Calendars and to-do lists can help you stay organized while maintaining realistic timelines.

Anxiety and confidence issues often undermine performance. Remember that in most jurisdictions, you can retake tests as needed. Focus on your strengths and regularly practise flying under various conditions to build your technical confidence before the assessment day.

Making An Informed Decision

To get a remote pilot license, you need dedication and careful planning. Even if the certification process seems challenging, you can simplify it by breaking it into manageable steps. 

However, to get there, you will need a good training provider. Also, you must dedicate time to studying and get some practical experience through hands-on flying.

Above all, remember that a RePL opens numerous professional opportunities beyond the basic excluded category operations. 

The certification allows pilots to operate larger drones, fly in controlled airspace, and conduct specialised operations that basic operator accreditation doesn’t permit.

Therefore, whether starting fresh or upgrading existing skills, success relies on thorough preparation. 

Many pilots find that combining structured training with additional practice sessions helps build both competence and confidence. The RePL’s lifetime validity makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about professional drone operations in Australia.