Some types of RPAs (also called drones) do not require their operator to have a remote pilot licence (RePL) or remotely piloted aircraft operator's certificate (ReOC) to be flown for commercial or business use. This is called excluded category.
Watch our short video to learn more about operating in an excluded category and how you can gain your operator accreditation to fly your drone.
There are a number of different types of RPA. Each are classified by weight and operations. Types include:
You can learn more about each type by reading our drone weight categories and requirements webpage.
You must get an operator accreditation if you fly for business or as part of your job, including, but not limited to:
Accreditation is:
You must be 16 or older to become an accredited operator. An accredited adult (over 18) must supervise you if you’re under 16.
You must follow the:
To understand the rules and standard operating conditions that apply:
Follow these steps to get your operator accreditation:
You need to create an account if you haven't used the myCASA portal before.
Navigate to the myCASA portal and enter your email address and password to log in.
You can also use Digital Identity to login to the portal.
After you have logged in, navigate to 'Need an ARN?' and select 'Apply for aviation reference number (ARN)'.
You can link your existing ARN or apply for a new one. If you’re operating on behalf of a business, you’ll also need an organisation ARN.
You will then enter your personal details. These include:
After entering your personal details, you will see a prompt to submit your identification.
You will only need one type of identification. Most identity documents can be verified online, including:
Select ‘Individual account’ then select ‘Drone accreditation’. Read the declaration carefully.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the accreditation quiz.
You will need to score 85% or higher to pass the quiz.
Once you’ve passed the online quiz, you can download your accreditation using myCASA.
To download your operator accreditation:
Navigate to the myCASA portal and enter your email address and password to log in.
Select 'View your operator accreditation details'.
Choose to download either to your Apple Wallet for iPhone or Google Pay for Android.
Select the 'add to Apple Wallet' or 'Save to phone' button.
Your licence will then load into your Apple Wallet or Google Pay.
Have a question? Need help? Try asking our virtual assistant.
You can also contact us through our online enquiry form.
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Watch our step-by-step video on how to get an RPA operator accreditation.
