General Entry Requirements
To start training toward your RPL, you must be:
- at least 16 years old; and
- able to speak and understand English to at least an upper intermediate level; and
- meet any criteria specified by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).
Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Criteria
To receive approval to undertake flight training for this course, applicants must:
Note: An ARN is a simple process that involves corresponding with CASA and obtaining a unique CASA identifier. Please refer to the Aviation Reference Number (ARN) section on CASA’s website for instructions.
- be eligible to obtain a Recreational Aviation Medical Practitioners Certificate; and
Note: A valid Class 1 medical certificate is a is highly recommended if you are considering training toward a CPL. Details and further information are available from CASA – https://www.casa.gov.au/licences-and-certificates/aviation-medicals/medical-certificates.
- be eligible to obtain an Australian Aviation Security Identity Card (ASIC); and
Note: Obtaining an ASIC requires police clearance by way of a background criminal check that can include:
-
- National police check
- Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission criminal assessment
- Australian Security Intelligence Organisation national security assessment
- Department of Home Affairs Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system check
If you have significant criminal history, you may not be eligible to hold an ASIC.
ASIC applications require support for operational needs. This is provided to you by us after your successful enrolment along with instructions for lodging an ASIC application.
- have sufficient English language ability to pass the aviation General English Language Assessment (GELP). This can be arranged and conducted in-house for your convenience.
Note: CASA has requirements for the minimum standards of English language. Trainees will undergo testing to gain CASA certification (at a minimum of level 4) of their aviation English standard during the early stages of the course if intending to continue on to the PPL training stage.
The process for gaining a Recreational Pilot Licence is as follows. Please explore the links to the CASA website for additional information.
1. Lodge an application
Applying is simple and there is no application fee. Apply using our online application form →
2. Sit the general English language assessment
As you will use an aeronautical radio, you will need to meet the aviation general English language proficiency (GELP). You only need to do this once and we usually arrange this inhouse when you commence.
Visit the CASA website to learn more about the GELP assessment.
3. Get the required aviation medical certificate
You will need a Recreational Aviation Medical Practitioners Certificate (RAMPC). Learn more about the RAMPC on the CASA website.
4. Pass the RPL exam
You will need to pass the RPL theory exams. Learn more about RPL exams on the CASA website.
5. Complete at least 25 hours flying time
Complete your required flying time. This includes 20 hours dual and 5 hours as pilot-in-command.
6. Pass an RPL flight test and gain your RPL
Undertake your official flight test (included in your training) and receive your RPL.
Additional Information:
You will need a CASA Aviation Reference Number in order to get your aviation medical and English results. The ARN is simple and free. Apply for your ARN on the CASA website.
The RPL has several restrictions regarding passengers and flights that may be undertaken and is not internationally recognised. To gain additional independence, RPL holders will usually undertake additional training that is included in the PPL phase, or work toward gaining their PPL. Please seek additional information from the RPL page of the CASA website.
Flight One Private Hire Program: Your Path to Independence
At Flight One, our commitment to your aviation journey doesn’t end with obtaining your license; it’s just the beginning. We are thrilled to introduce our Private Hire Program, exclusively available to our students who have successfully gained their licenses through our school.
With this program, you can now take your newfound skills and passion for flying to the next level. Imagine the freedom to choose from our extensive fleet of meticulously maintained aircraft, including the versatile Cessna 172 and the high-performance Cirrus SR20. Our Private Hire Program empowers you to explore the skies on your terms, offering unparalleled opportunities for adventure and personal growth as a pilot. It’s time to spread your wings and embark on your own aviation adventures with Flight One.
Explore rates and fees for Private Hire →
Explore Private Hire Agreement →
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