Question 1

How much does a RePL drone licence cost in Australia?

Accepted Answer

ACE Aviation commercial course packages start from $999 for our ACE Ready RePL package. Bundled pathways that combine your RePL with AROC and ReOC are available at a discount. We also offer 0% interest payment plans, so you can start your drone career without paying the full amount upfront.

Question 2

How long does it take to get a RePL (drone licence)?

Accepted Answer

Most of our standard RePL courses run over five days of intensive, hands-on training. With our flexible learning approach you complete the online theory modules at your own pace beforehand, then attend the practical flying days to finish your assessment.

Question 3

What is a RePL (Remote Pilot Licence)?

Accepted Answer

A RePL (Remote Pilot Licence) is the CASA credential that lets you fly drones commercially in Australia, including drones over 2 kg and operations outside the standard 'excluded' category. It stays with you for life and is the foundation qualification for a professional drone career.

Question 4

Do I need previous experience to get a commercial drone licence?

Accepted Answer

No prior experience is necessary. Our commercial drone training is designed for complete beginners through to advanced operators, and our instructors take you from the fundamentals to a confident, assessment-ready standard.

Question 5

Do you offer RePL training in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We deliver RePL and drone pilot training Australia-wide across eight major locations — Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Newcastle, Darwin, Cairns and Hobart — plus flexible online theory you can complete from anywhere.

Question 6

Does a RePL expire, and how long is it valid?

Accepted Answer

Your RePL does not expire — once you've earned it, it's yours for life. To fly commercially under a business you'll operate under a ReOC, and staying current with recent flight experience and any aircraft type ratings is recommended.

Question 7

Do I actually need a RePL to fly a drone commercially?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the drone and how you fly it. Sub-2 kg drones can be flown commercially under CASA's 'excluded' category with a free operator accreditation, but to fly drones over 2 kg commercially — or to operate outside the standard rules — you generally need a RePL. Our advisors can confirm exactly what applies to your situation.

Question 8

What is a ReOC (Remote Operator's Certificate)?

Accepted Answer

A ReOC (Remote Operator's Certificate) is essentially a business licence from CASA. It allows your organisation to operate drones commercially, employ RePL-qualified pilots, and apply for approvals to fly outside the standard operating conditions.

Question 9

What is the difference between a RePL and a ReOC?

Accepted Answer

A RePL (Remote Pilot Licence) is an individual credential that lets you personally fly a drone commercially. A ReOC (Remote Operator's Certificate) is a business authorisation that lets a company run drone operations, hire RePL pilots and seek approvals for advanced work such as night, BVLOS or flights over people. Many professionals hold a RePL and work under an employer's ReOC, while business owners obtain both.

Question 10

How do I get a ReOC, and can ACE help?

Accepted Answer

ACE Aviation can guide you through the full ReOC application, including the operations manual, key personnel and documentation CASA requires. Most operators complete their RePL (and often AROC) first, then apply for the ReOC to run their own drone business.

Question 11

What licence do I need for an XAG P150 Max?

Accepted Answer

The XAG P150 Max is a large agricultural drone (well over 25 kg), so you'll need a RePL rated for its size class, and you'll operate it commercially under a ReOC. Because it carries and applies chemicals, additional chemical-application accreditation may also apply. ACE Aviation offers XAG P150 Max training and will confirm the full licensing pathway for your circumstances.

Question 12

Do you offer XAG P150 Max agricultural drone training?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide hands-on XAG P150 Max agricultural drone training for crop spraying and spreading — ideal for farmers, agronomists and contractors wanting to add drone application services or start an agricultural spraying business.

Question 13

What is agricultural drone training?

Accepted Answer

Agricultural drone training prepares you to use large spraying and spreading drones for crop protection, fertilising, seeding and pasture management. It combines your drone licensing with type-specific training on agricultural aircraft such as the XAG P150 Max.

Question 14

What licence do I need to fly an agricultural spraying drone?

Accepted Answer

To fly a large agricultural spraying drone commercially you'll generally need your RePL, and because ag drones are heavy and often carry chemicals you'll also operate under a ReOC with the appropriate approvals. Chemical application may require additional accreditation. Our team maps out the exact pathway for your operation.

Question 15

What is drone cleaning (JTC30) training?

Accepted Answer

Drone cleaning uses purpose-built spraying drones — such as the Joyance JTC30 — to clean building facades, roofs and solar panels safely from the ground. ACE Aviation's cleaning drone training covers the equipment, techniques and licensing you need to offer these services commercially.

Question 16

How do I start a drone cleaning business?

Accepted Answer

Start with your RePL so you can fly commercially, add JTC30 cleaning-drone training for the practical skills, and operate under a ReOC to run the business and take on advanced jobs. From there it's equipment, insurance and finding clients — areas our advisors can help you plan.

Question 17

How do I start a drone spraying business?

Accepted Answer

Get your RePL to fly commercially, complete agricultural drone (XAG P150 Max) training for the practical spraying skills, and operate under a ReOC to run the business and apply for the approvals ag work requires. Chemical-application accreditation and insurance round out your setup.

Question 18

Do you offer payment plans?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer 0% interest payment plans so you can begin your training and career without paying the full course fee upfront. Speak with our team to choose a plan that suits your budget.

Question 19

Do I need insurance to run a drone business?

Accepted Answer

While training itself doesn't require it, most commercial drone operators carry public liability insurance (commonly $5–20 million) and often equipment cover. Requirements vary by client and job, so it's worth arranging appropriate cover before taking on paid work.

Question 20

What is UAMP?

Accepted Answer

UAMP refers to an Unmanned Aircraft Management Plan — a documented plan that sets out how a drone operation will be conducted and managed safely, covering procedures, risk controls and responsibilities. If your operation or a client requires one, ACE Aviation can point you in the right direction.

Question 21

Can ACE Aviation help me find work?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Every ACE graduate gets exclusive access to DroneWork — our dedicated platform that connects qualified pilots with real commercial drone jobs across Australia — so you can start turning your licence into paid work.

Question 22

What jobs and pay can I get with a drone licence?

Accepted Answer

Licensed drone pilots work across surveying and mapping, construction, agriculture, inspections, real estate, film and emergency services. Pay varies widely with experience and specialisation, and building a niche — such as agricultural or inspection work — typically commands higher rates.

Question 23

Can I operate drones at night?

Accepted Answer

Flying at night is outside CASA's standard operating conditions, so it generally requires operating under a ReOC with a specific night-operations approval, along with appropriate procedures and equipment. ACE Aviation can help you understand and work toward these requirements.

Question 24

What are CASA's standard operating conditions?

Accepted Answer

CASA's standard operating conditions include flying in daylight and within visual line of sight, at or below 120 m above ground level, at least 30 m from people, no more than one drone at a time, and away from aerodromes and emergency operations. Flying outside these conditions requires additional approvals, usually under a ReOC.

Question 25

Do I need to register my drone or get operator accreditation?

Accepted Answer

If you fly commercially you generally need to register your drone with CASA, and sub-2 kg commercial flyers need a (free) operator accreditation. Larger and business operations are covered by your RePL and ReOC. We'll walk you through what applies.

Question 26

Can I fly near airports or in controlled airspace?

Accepted Answer

Flying near controlled aerodromes or in controlled airspace is restricted and usually not permitted under the standard rules. Such operations require appropriate approvals and are typically conducted under a ReOC — something ACE can help you plan for.

Question 27

What is BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight)?

Accepted Answer

BVLOS stands for Beyond Visual Line of Sight — operating a drone beyond the point where the pilot can see it unaided. It unlocks long-range work such as linear infrastructure and large-area surveys, but it's an advanced operation outside the standard rules.

Question 28

Do I need approval to fly BVLOS?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BVLOS is outside CASA's standard operating conditions and requires specific approval, generally held under a ReOC along with suitable procedures, technology and risk assessment. ACE can help you build toward BVLOS capability.

Question 29

What is EVLOS (Extended Visual Line of Sight)?

Accepted Answer

EVLOS stands for Extended Visual Line of Sight — extending your visual range using trained observers who maintain sight of the drone and communicate with the pilot. Like BVLOS, it's an advanced operation that goes beyond the standard rules.

Question 30

What's the difference between EVLOS and BVLOS?

Accepted Answer

With EVLOS (Extended Visual Line of Sight) trained observers keep the aircraft in sight and relay information to the pilot, whereas BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) removes the visual-sighting requirement altogether and relies on technology and procedures. Both sit outside the standard rules and need CASA approval, typically under a ReOC.

Question 31

Do you train on DJI drones, and which is best for a RePL?

Accepted Answer

DJI drones (such as the Mavic, Air and Matrice series) are among the most common platforms for commercial work, and the skills from your RePL transfer directly to them. Your RePL is tied to a size and weight class rather than a single brand, so you can apply it across compatible DJI aircraft.

Question 32

DJI vs XAG — which drone should I choose?

Accepted Answer

DJI aircraft are popular for mapping, inspection, photography and lighter commercial work, while XAG builds large purpose-built agricultural drones like the P150 Max for spraying and spreading. The right choice depends on your intended work — general commercial services versus dedicated agricultural application.

Question 33

What is the No Pass Training Guarantee?

Accepted Answer

We're confident in our training. If you put in the work and don't pass your required assessments, we'll keep training you at no extra cost until you do — so you can enrol and train with complete confidence.

Question 34

What is an AROC and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

An AROC (Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate) qualifies you to operate aviation radio, which is required for many commercial drone and aviation operations Australia-wide. ACE Aviation are AROC specialists, offering flexible self-paced training with real aviation radio scenarios.

Question 35

Is there a minimum age to get a drone licence (RePL)?

Accepted Answer

CASA doesn't set a minimum age to hold a RePL itself, but you need to be able to complete the theory and practical assessment and take responsibility for commercial operations — and operator accreditation for excluded-category flying does require you to be at least 16. In practice ACE Aviation trains students from around 16 years of age. If you're unsure whether the course suits your situation, our advisors are happy to talk it through.

Question 36

Do I need a medical or health check to get a RePL?

Accepted Answer

No. Unlike a manned pilot licence, a RePL does not require an aviation medical certificate. There are no formal fitness or health requirements to earn your remote pilot licence — the focus is on your knowledge and flying competency.

Question 37

What's involved in the RePL assessment — is there an exam?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Your RePL combines theory and practical assessment. The theory covers air law and CASA rules, meteorology, human factors, aerodynamics and radio procedures, and is assessed by exam. You then complete a practical flight test to demonstrate safe, competent operation. ACE Aviation's instructors prepare you thoroughly for both, and our No Pass Training Guarantee means we keep training you until you succeed.

Question 38

What drone weight classes does a RePL cover (sub-7kg, sub-25kg)?

Accepted Answer

A RePL is issued for a category and size of aircraft — commonly multirotor sub-7 kg or sub-25 kg, with separate ratings for fixed-wing or larger aircraft. Heavier drones over 25 kg, such as large agricultural platforms, need the appropriate higher weight-class rating and often type-specific training. We'll recommend the right rating for the drones you plan to fly.

Question 39

Can I do the RePL theory online?

Accepted Answer

Yes. With ACE Aviation you complete the theory component online at your own pace, then attend the practical flying days to finish your assessment. This blended approach lets you fit study around work and travel while still getting hands-on instruction where it matters.

Question 40

Can I fly commercially in Australia on an overseas drone licence?

Accepted Answer

Australian commercial drone operations are governed by CASA, so overseas drone qualifications generally aren't directly recognised — you'll typically need an Australian RePL to work here. The good news is prior experience often makes the course faster and easier. Contact our team to discuss how your background fits our training.

Question 41

Is getting a RePL worth it?

Accepted Answer

If you want to earn from drone work, a RePL is the foundation that opens up commercial jobs, higher-value projects and the ability to operate heavier, more capable aircraft. Combined with ACE's DroneWork job platform and business pathways, it's a practical investment in a fast-growing industry.

Question 42

How much does a ReOC cost and how long does it take?

Accepted Answer

A ReOC involves CASA application fees plus the cost of preparing your operations manual and documentation, and timeframes vary with how ready your paperwork is and CASA's processing time. Because every operation is different, the best approach is a tailored quote and plan. ACE Aviation helps you prepare a compliant application to avoid costly delays.

Question 43

I have a RePL — do I also need a ReOC?

Accepted Answer

Not always. If you fly as an employee or contractor under someone else's ReOC, your RePL is enough. You need your own ReOC when you want to run your own drone business, take on commercial clients directly, or apply for advanced approvals such as night, BVLOS or flights over people.

Question 44

What is a chief remote pilot and does my ReOC need one?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A ReOC requires nominated key personnel, including a chief remote pilot (CRP) who holds a RePL and is responsible for the safety and standards of your operations, plus a maintenance controller. For small businesses, the owner often fills these roles once appropriately qualified. ACE can help you understand and meet these requirements.

Question 45

Can a sole trader or small business get a ReOC?

Accepted Answer

Yes. ReOCs can be issued to sole traders and companies that hold an ABN or ACN, so you don't need to be a large organisation. Many successful drone businesses start as a single operator who holds a RePL and runs their own ReOC.

Question 46

What's the difference between XAG models like the P100 and P150 Max?

Accepted Answer

XAG builds a range of agricultural drones that differ mainly in tank capacity, payload and coverage rate — larger models like the P150 Max carry more and cover more ground per hour, suiting bigger operations. The right model depends on your acreage, crops and budget. ACE's agricultural drone training focuses on the platforms you'll actually fly.

Question 47

XAG vs DJI Agras — which agricultural drone is better?

Accepted Answer

Both XAG and DJI Agras are leading spray-drone platforms used across Australian agriculture. The best choice depends on local support, spare parts, dealer network, the specific tasks (spraying vs spreading) and your budget — and both are large aircraft that need the appropriate RePL rating and a ReOC for commercial work. Our ag specialists can help you weigh up the options for your operation.

Question 48

Do I need a chemical licence to spray with an agricultural drone?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. On top of your CASA licensing, applying agricultural chemicals is regulated at the state and territory level, so you may need a commercial chemical-use or aerial application accreditation depending on where you operate and what you spray. Requirements vary between states — our team can point you to what applies in your area.

Question 49

Can I fly a spraying drone on my own farm without a full licence?

Accepted Answer

There can be concessions for landholders operating over their own property, but large spray drones (often over 25 kg) and chemical application still bring significant CASA and state chemical requirements. The exact rules depend on the aircraft weight and how you operate. ACE Aviation can map out the simplest compliant pathway for your farm.

Question 50

Can agricultural drones spread seed and fertiliser, not just spray?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many agricultural drones accept a spreading attachment for broadcasting seed, granular fertiliser and pasture products, in addition to liquid spraying. This makes them versatile tools for cropping, pasture renovation and hard-to-reach terrain. Our XAG training covers both spraying and spreading workflows.

Question 51

What are the benefits of using drones for agriculture?

Accepted Answer

Agricultural drones can treat crops quickly and precisely, reach waterlogged or steep terrain that machinery can't, reduce chemical use through targeted application, and keep operators out of contact with chemicals. For many farms and contractors they cut costs and open new service revenue.

Question 52

What licence do I need to run a cleaning drone?

Accepted Answer

Cleaning drones are spraying aircraft, so commercial cleaning work generally needs your RePL to fly, a ReOC to operate as a business, and aircraft-specific training such as JTC30. Because you're spraying water and cleaning agents at height, appropriate procedures and insurance are also important.

Question 53

What equipment do I need for a drone cleaning business?

Accepted Answer

You'll typically need a purpose-built cleaning/spraying drone such as the Joyance JTC30, tanks and pumps, suitable cleaning agents, safety and ground equipment, and reliable batteries. ACE's cleaning drone training walks you through the gear and how to use it safely and effectively.

Question 54

How much can a drone cleaning business earn?

Accepted Answer

Earnings depend on your services (solar, roof, facade, gutters), location and how you price jobs, but drone cleaning can command strong rates because it's fast, safe and avoids scaffolding or working at height. Building repeat commercial clients — like solar farms and property managers — is key to steady income.

Question 55

How much does it cost to start a drone spraying business?

Accepted Answer

Your biggest cost is the aircraft — large agricultural spray drones typically run from tens of thousands of dollars depending on the model and kit — on top of licensing (RePL, ReOC), chemical accreditation, insurance and support equipment. ACE's 0% interest payment plans help spread training costs, and our advisors can help you build a realistic startup budget.

Question 56

Do I need an ABN, and what are the steps to set up a drone business?

Accepted Answer

A typical pathway is: get your RePL, register an ABN (and a company if needed), obtain your ReOC to operate commercially, arrange insurance, choose your equipment and niche, then start winning clients. Many operators add specialisations like agriculture or cleaning to stand out. ACE can support you across the licensing and operational steps.

Question 57

How do I find clients for my drone business?

Accepted Answer

Focus on a niche where you add clear value — agriculture, inspections, real estate, construction or solar cleaning — build a portfolio, and target local businesses that need those services. ACE graduates also get access to DroneWork, our platform that connects qualified pilots with real commercial jobs.

Question 58

What equipment do I need to start a commercial drone operation?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your niche, but most operators need a capable commercial drone (or specialised aircraft for ag/cleaning), spare batteries, a controller and tablet, storage and data tools, plus safety and ground gear. Insurance and a maintenance routine round out a professional setup.

Question 59

How much do drone pilots earn in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Pay varies widely with experience, industry and specialisation. Entry-level roles often start around $30,000–$65,000, while experienced and specialised commercial pilots can earn roughly $70,000–$120,000 or more per year. Niche skills like agricultural spraying, surveying or inspections typically command the highest rates.

Question 60

Which industries hire commercial drone pilots?

Accepted Answer

Licensed pilots are in demand across surveying and mapping, construction, agriculture, mining and energy, powerline and asset inspection, real estate and property, film and media, environmental monitoring, and emergency services. Building expertise in one sector is often the fastest route to well-paid work.

Question 61

Can I get into drone surveying and mapping work?

Accepted Answer

Yes — surveying and mapping is one of the largest and best-paid areas of commercial drone work, used in construction, mining, planning and the environment. Beyond your RePL, employers value skills in flight planning, data capture and processing software. ACE's training and DroneWork platform help you move toward this kind of work.

Question 62

Do I need a licence to do real estate drone photography?

Accepted Answer

If you're paid for real estate photography or video — including for an agency or your own business — it's a commercial operation, so you generally need a RePL and to operate under a ReOC (your own or an employer's). Sub-2 kg work may fall under the excluded category with operator accreditation, but agencies increasingly expect full licensing.

Question 63

Can I fly drones commercially as a side hustle or part-time?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Many licensed pilots start part-time — doing weekend real estate shoots, inspections or agricultural work — before scaling up. Your RePL doesn't expire, so it's a flexible qualification you can build a side income around at your own pace.

Question 64

What are CASA's drone weight categories?

Accepted Answer

CASA groups drones by take-off weight: micro (up to 250 g), very small / sub-2 kg (250 g–2 kg), small (2–25 kg), medium (25–150 kg) and large (over 150 kg). Weight drives what you can fly under the excluded category versus what needs a RePL and, for commercial work, a ReOC.

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How much does a RePL drone licence cost in Australia?

How long does it take to get a RePL (drone licence)?

What is a RePL (Remote Pilot Licence)?

Do I need previous experience to get a commercial drone licence?

Do you offer RePL training in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth?

Does a RePL expire, and how long is it valid?

Do I actually need a RePL to fly a drone commercially?

What is a ReOC (Remote Operator's Certificate)?

What is the difference between a RePL and a ReOC?

How do I get a ReOC, and can ACE help?

What licence do I need for an XAG P150 Max?

Do you offer XAG P150 Max agricultural drone training?

What is agricultural drone training?

What licence do I need to fly an agricultural spraying drone?

What is drone cleaning (JTC30) training?

How do I start a drone cleaning business?

How do I start a drone spraying business?

Do you offer payment plans?

Do I need insurance to run a drone business?

What is UAMP?

Can ACE Aviation help me find work?

What jobs and pay can I get with a drone licence?

Can I operate drones at night?

What are CASA's standard operating conditions?

Do I need to register my drone or get operator accreditation?

Can I fly near airports or in controlled airspace?

What is BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight)?

Do I need approval to fly BVLOS?

What is EVLOS (Extended Visual Line of Sight)?

What's the difference between EVLOS and BVLOS?

Do you train on DJI drones, and which is best for a RePL?

DJI vs XAG — which drone should I choose?

What is the No Pass Training Guarantee?

What is an AROC and do I need one?

Is there a minimum age to get a drone licence (RePL)?

Do I need a medical or health check to get a RePL?

What's involved in the RePL assessment — is there an exam?

What drone weight classes does a RePL cover (sub-7kg, sub-25kg)?

Can I do the RePL theory online?

Can I fly commercially in Australia on an overseas drone licence?

Is getting a RePL worth it?

How much does a ReOC cost and how long does it take?

I have a RePL — do I also need a ReOC?

What is a chief remote pilot and does my ReOC need one?

Can a sole trader or small business get a ReOC?

What's the difference between XAG models like the P100 and P150 Max?

XAG vs DJI Agras — which agricultural drone is better?

Do I need a chemical licence to spray with an agricultural drone?

Can I fly a spraying drone on my own farm without a full licence?

Can agricultural drones spread seed and fertiliser, not just spray?

What are the benefits of using drones for agriculture?

What licence do I need to run a cleaning drone?

What equipment do I need for a drone cleaning business?

How much can a drone cleaning business earn?

How much does it cost to start a drone spraying business?

Do I need an ABN, and what are the steps to set up a drone business?

How do I find clients for my drone business?

What equipment do I need to start a commercial drone operation?

How much do drone pilots earn in Australia?

Which industries hire commercial drone pilots?

Can I get into drone surveying and mapping work?

Do I need a licence to do real estate drone photography?

Can I fly drones commercially as a side hustle or part-time?

What are CASA's drone weight categories?

Can I fly a drone over people?

What's the difference between recreational and commercial drone flying?

Can I fly FPV drones, and can I use them commercially?

How high can I legally fly a drone in Australia?

How much does it cost to register a drone with CASA?

What are the privacy rules for flying drones?

What are the penalties for breaking drone rules in Australia?