Operator accreditation

You must get a remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) operator accreditation to fly for business or as part of your job, if your drone weighs:

• 250 g or less (a micro RPA)
• more than 250 g but no more than 2 kg (a very small RPA)
• more than 2kg but no more than 25 kg and you only fly it over your own land (a small RPA).

You can learn more about each type by reading about drone weight categories and requirements.

You do not need an operator accreditation if:

• you hold a remote pilot licence (RePL)
• you hold a remotely piloted aircraft operator's certificate (ReOC) 
• you’re flying for fun, including model aircraft association members flying at CASA-approved model airfields.

You must also register your drone before you can fly.

Operator accreditation requirements

You must get an operator accreditation if you fly for business or as part of your job, including, but not limited to:

• selling photos or videos taken from a drone
• inspecting industrial equipment, construction sites or infrastructure
• monitoring, surveillance or security services
• research and development
• any drone activities for your employer.

Accreditation:

• is free
• can be completed online
• is valid for three years
• is required to fly and supervise others.

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:

• drone safety rules that apply to all types of drones
• standard operating conditions for micro and excluded category RPA.

To understand the rules and standard operating conditions that apply:

• download or print the Micro and Excluded Category RPA plain English guide
• watch our short safety video about operating an excluded category or micro RPA.