Home
Level 1 Remote Pilot Certificate

Level 1 Remote Pilot Certificate

Take the next step in professional drone operations with Coptrz.

Coptrz is redefining the future of drone training—frictionless, modular, and free to begin.

First to offer a fully modular RPC-L1 structure: online theory + optional add-on for practical training/assessment

Only provider offering online, self-paced theory learning (vs. fixed classroom blocks)

Backed by 10-year CAA-approved training pedigree with 12,000+ pilots certified

Lower barrier to entry: reduced upfront cost and time commitment through modular access

Strong brand trust from existing enterprise clients and consistent 5-star reviews

What is the Level 1 Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC-L1) Training Course?

Take the next step in professional drone operations with Coptrz. We are approved as a UK CAA Recognised Assessment Entity for Pilot Competence (RAE(PC)) to deliver the Level 1 Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC-L1) for both RPC-L1 Fixed Wing and RPC-L1 Rotorcraft.

RPC-L1 is the foundation of the CAA’s competency-based framework for Specific Category operations, focusing on real-world capability, decision making and safe, compliant flying, not just classroom knowledge.

To introduce the new Remote Pilot Certificate framework, the CAA will phase out the General VLOS Certificate (GVC) over twenty-four months. During this period both the GVC and RPCs will remain valid so that RAEs and remote pilots can adapt at a comfortable pace. As more operators gain RPCs, use of the GVC is expected to reduce naturally.

The RPC-L1 will replace the GVC over a 2-year period, with no new GVCs issued from 31^st December 2027.

Key features of RPC-L1 include:

Eligibility

No official minimum age, though Coptrz recommends 16+. You must have a valid UK CAA Flyer ID (i.e. passed the basic online CAA Drone Code test) before enrolling.

Training & Assessment

Complete a theory course covering key aviation subjects, pass a multiple-choice exam, and undertake at least 2 hours of flight instruction with an approved instructor plus a flight assessment with one of our assessors. GVC holders are exempt from the RPC-L1 theory exam. No operations manual is required.

Operational Scope

RPC-L1 allows VLOS drone operations in the Specific Category (e.g., populated areas), subject to an Operational Authorisation. Under UKPDRA-01, this permits VLOS flights up to 120m AGL with drones weighing up to 25kg.

Validity

The certificate is valid for five years and requires ongoing flight currency (minimum 2 logged flight hours every 90 days). Renewal after five years involves a refresher process rather than full retraining.

Crucially, RPC-L1 is the first step in a new tiered certification system. It forms the foundation for higher levels like RPC-L2 and RPC-L3, which unlock beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) and more complex operations. This makes RPC-L1 not just a standalone license, but the gateway to an evolving drone career path in the UK.

Who Is RPC-L1 For?

RPC-L1 is designed for:

Professional drone pilots operating, or preparing to operate, in the Specific Category
Operators who want a future-ready qualification aligned to UK SORA
New entrants to commercial drone operations
Existing GVC holders looking to convert to the CAA’s new pilot competence framework
Enterprise, public sector and infrastructure pilots requiring robust competency evidence

Why RPC-L1 Matters (RPC-L1 vs GVC)

The RPC-L1 framework represents a fundamental shift in how pilot competence is assessed in the UK.

Future regulatory alignment

RPC-L1 is built around the UK Specific Operations Risk Assessment (UK SORA) model, replacing the older, prescriptive GVC framework.

No Operations Manual assessment

RPC-L1 focuses solely on pilot competence. There is no requirement to create, submit or approve an Operations Manual as part of the course.

Competency-based training

Emphasis is placed on decision making, threat and error management, and real-world flying capability.

Clear progression pathway

RPC-L1 is the gateway to higher certifications such as RPC-L2 and RPC-L3, unlocking BVLOS and more complex operations.

Future-proof choice

From January 2026, the CAA expects RPC certificates to be used for UK SORA-based Operational Authorisations.

In short: the GVC is a legacy qualification, while RPC-L1 is the new industry standard.

How the RPC-L1 Course Works

RPC-L1 is delivered through a structured, staged approach that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on flight instruction and independent assessment.

Training is conducted on the specific aircraft category you are qualifying on: Rotorcraft or Fixed Wing.

RPC-L1 Course Stages

Stage 1

Obtain UK CAA Flyer ID

You must hold a valid Flyer ID before starting the course. You can obtain your Flyer ID by passing the CAA’s free online theory test: https://www.caa.co.uk/drones/getting-started-with-drones-and-model-aircraft/get-a-flyer-id/

Stage 2

Theoretical Knowledge Instruction

Complete structured learning covering the regulatory and operational foundations required for Specific Category operations. Training is delivered via classroom learning or e-learning, depending on your chosen route.

Stage 3

Theoretical Knowledge Assessment

Candidates complete a formal multiple-choice theory exam in line with CAA requirements.

40 questions
75% pass mark
90 minutes duration
GVC holders converting to RPC-L1 may be exempt from this exam.

Stage 4

Ground and Practical Flight Instruction

Undertake a minimum of 2 hours of instructor-led ground and flight training with a Coptrz-approved Practical Flight Instructor. This phase focuses on competency-based coaching rather than manoeuvre repetition.

Stage 5

Practical Flight Assessment

Once signed off by the instructor, you will complete an independent practical flight assessment with a Coptrz Practical Flight Assessor, evaluating real-world pilot competence.

Stage 6

Issue of RPC-L1 Certificate

On successful completion, Coptrz issues your Level 1 Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC-L1) under our CAA RAE(PC) privileges.

Stage 7

Apply for CAA Operational Authorisation

You can then apply to the UK CAA for a PDRA-01 or UK SORA-based Operational Authorisation to operate in the Specific Category.

What You Will Learn

During the course you will complete six core learning modules, plus preparatory reading:

Air Law
Airspace Operating Principles
Human Performance and Limitations
Meteorology
Unmanned Aircraft General Knowledge
Operating Procedures

Practical Flight Training & Assessment

Practical training focuses on applying knowledge in realistic operational scenarios, including:

Operational planning and risk assessment aligned to UK SORA
Aircraft handling and control
Navigation and airspace awareness
Abnormal and emergency procedures
Decision making, threat and error management
Compliance with operating procedures and authorisations

All practical instruction and assessment is conducted using Coptrz-owned aircraft under Coptrz insurance, ensuring a safe, consistent and fully compliant environment.

Two Ways to Complete RPC-L1

Face-to-Face Training

Fast-track your certification with our 4 day in-person training course. The classroom course is an interactive and hands-on experience, with expert instructors guiding you every step of the way.

Ideal for structured, expert-led learning.

Typically 4 days (Tuesday–Friday)
Classroom theory instruction and assessment
Ground and practical flight instruction
Practical flight assessment
Access to online course resources

Online Theory + Face-to-Face Practical

Learn in your own time and at your own pace from anywhere with an internet connection. Complete all online modules to unlock exam booking. After passing your online theory exam, we can book your practical flight instruction and assessment at our Leeds venue.

Online self-paced theory course and assessment
Typically 2 days of ground and practical flight instruction followed by your practical flight assessment

Additional Course Routes

GVC to RPC-L1 Conversion Course

For existing GVC holders transitioning to the new framework.

No RPC-L1 theory exam required
Theory training still completed
Full practical flight instruction and assessment required

RPC-L1 Bridging Course

For pilots who already hold RPC-L1 on one aircraft category (either Rotorcraft or Fixed Wing).

Ground and practical instruction on the alternate aircraft category
Practical flight assessment on the alternate aircraft category
No repeat of theory training or examination

Why Train with Coptrz?

Coptrz is at the forefront of delivering the new RPC-L1 certification in the UK. As the leading CAA-approved training provider (Recognised Assessment Entity), Coptrz was among the first to receive approval to offer the RPC-L1 course.

Expertise & Recognition

Coptrz is an established name in drone training with over 12,000+ pilots trained and a 99% pass rate on courses. We are trusted across industries – enterprise clients like the BBC and Balfour Beatty have chosen Coptrz to train their drone teams. Coptrz’ courses are OFQUAL accredited and developed by seasoned professionals, so you know you’re getting quality instruction grounded in real-world UAV operations.

Comprehensive Course Structure

The RPC-L1 course at Coptrz has been built from the ground up with a competency-based approach. Training combines robust online theory modules with structured hands-on practice. You’ll cover all required topics and then put them into practice with guided flight training. After honing your skills with Coptrz’ instructors, you’ll undergo an independent practical flight assessment to confirm your competence. The course is offered for both multirotor and fixed-wing platforms – Coptrz lets you choose your certification as needed. If you want to qualify on both drone types, Coptrz provides an efficient bridging option so you don’t have to repeat the full course for the second category. This flexibility is great for pilots who operate diverse fleets.

Ongoing Support and Value

When you train with Coptrz, you join a community. Students get access to the Coptrz Academy e-learning platform with 300+ online courses and resources beyond the core curriculum – from project management to specialised drone skills – adding extra value to your investment. Coptrz also offers post-course support like operations manual templates, free document reviews, and expert mentorship to help you secure your CAA Operational Authorisation smoothly. We are also an ELCAS-approved provider for those using UK armed forces resettlement funding, underlining their commitment to supporting public sector and ex-military personnel alongside enterprise clients.

Practical Flying Locations

All RPC-L1 practical flight instruction and assessments are conducted exclusively at the approved Coptrz Leeds flying site.

Strategic Positioning Statement:

"As the UK’s most experienced drone trainer, Coptrz offers a modular RPC-L1 route that saves time—online theory at your pace, followed by in-person flight testing built on over a decade of training excellence."