Get CAA Certified and Start Flying Commercially with RPC-L1
Complete your RPC-L1 faster with flexible training, online learning and real-world assessment with Coptrz — trusted by 12,000+ pilots and backed by 10+ years of CAA-approved experience.
Self-paced online learning
10+ years CAA-approved training
Modular training — lower upfront cost
Trusted by enterprise clients
GVC is being phased out
Operators are already transitioning to RPC-L1 to stay compliant, secure future contract, and remain competitive.
The UK’s Leading RAE(PC) Training Provider: Join 12,000+ Certified Pilots with a Proven 99% Pass Rate.
Get certified to operate commercially and stay compliant
This is the first step in the fastest route to achieving RPC-L1 and remaining compliant as GVC is phased out.
It puts you in a position to meet CAA requirements, apply for Operational Authorisation, and operate commercially within the Specific Category.
The GVC is being phased out, with no new certifications issued after 31st December 2027.
RPC-L1 is the certification replacing it. Starting here now means you won’t need to retrain or transition later.
Ways to Complete RPC-L1 Part A
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
- Ground and practical flight instruction, followed by your practical flight assessment, all completed within 1 day, provided you are signed off as competent following instruction
GVC to RPC-L1 Part A Conversion Course
For existing GVC holders transitioning to the new framework.
- No RPC-L1 Part A theory exam required
- Theory training still completed
- Full practical flight instruction and assessment required
Additional Course Routes
RPC-L1 Part A Bridging Course
For pilots who already hold RPC-L1 Part A 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
What this allows you to do
This certification is designed to get you operational, compliant, and ready for commercial work.
Become compliant
Meet the requirements to operate legally under CAA regulations.
Operate commercially
Carry out paid drone work within the correct category.
Work within the Specific Category
Apply for Operational Authorisation and fly under the appropriate permissions.
Avoid retraining later
Start with the certification that replaces the GVC and won’t require switching.
Your Drone Certification Pathway
Crucially, RPC-LI Part A is the first step in a new tiered certification system.
It forms the foundation for higher levels like RPC-L1 Part B, RPC-L2 and RPC-L3, which unlock Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) and more complex operations.
This makes the RPC-L1 Part A not just a standalone license, but the gateway to an evolving drone career path in the UK.
Who Is RPC-L1 Part A For?
RPC-L1 Part A 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 Part A Matters (RPC-L1 Part A vs GVC)
The RPC-L1 Part A framework represents a fundamental shift in how pilot competence is assessed in the UK.
Future regulatory alignment
RPC-L1 Part A is built around the UK Specific Operations Risk Assessment (UK SORA) model, replacing the older, prescriptive GVC framework.
Operations Manual Not Assessed (But Still Required)
The RPC-L1 Part A course doesn’t require creating or submitting an Operations Manual, but you must still have one to legally operate in the Specific Category.
We offer a PDRA-01 Operations Manual Review Service (£125 + VAT) to support you in creating your manual and CAA application after 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 Part A is the gateway to higher certifications such as RPC-L1 Part B, 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 Part A is the new industry standard.
How you get certified
A straightforward process designed to get you compliant and ready to operate commercially.
This isn’t just a course. It’s the quickest way to stay compliant and keep flying commercially as GVC is phased out.
RPC-L1 Part A Course Stages
The course is structured as a clear step-by-step process, taking you from foundational knowledge through to assessment and readiness for commercial drone operations.
How it works
You’ll move through a series of guided stages that take you from learning the fundamentals through to completing your assessment.
Learn the fundamentals
Build your understanding of UK regulations, airspace, safety, and how to plan compliant drone operations.
Apply your knowledge
Work through practical scenarios and planning exercises to prepare for real-world use.
Pass your assessment
Demonstrate your understanding and confirm you’re ready to progress towards practical training and commercial operations.
If you’d like a full breakdown of each stage, see below:
Stage 1
Obtain UK CAA Flyer ID
Build your understanding of how drone operations are regulated in the UK and what is required to operate safely and compliantly.
Stage 2
Theoretical Knowledge Instruction
Learn how to assess airspace, identify restrictions, and plan flights in line with UK CAA requirements.
Stage 3
Theoretical Knowledge Assessment
Develop your knowledge of risk management and how to prepare for safe drone operations in different environments.
Stage 4
Ground and Practical Flight Instruction
Understand the key operational principles required to carry out structured and compliant drone flights.
Stage 5
Practical Flight Assessment
Apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios, preparing you for practical use and commercial environments.
Stage 6
Issue of RPC-L1 Part A Certificate
Refine your understanding across all key areas and ensure you’re fully prepared for assessment.
Stage 7
Apply for CAA Operational Authorisation
Complete your assessment to demonstrate your understanding of the material and confirm you’re ready to progress towards practical training and commercial drone operations.
Once completed, you’ll have the theoretical foundation needed to move forward to practical assessment and take the next step towards operating commercially within the Specific Category.
Practical Flight Training Locations
Complete your practical flight training and assessment at one of our CAA-approved sites in Leeds or Kent — both selected for accessibility and convenience for pilots across the UK.
With flexible booking and expert instructors, you can plan your training around your schedule and complete your assessment efficiently.
What to expect
- CAA-approved training locations
- Flexible booking dates — no fixed schedule
- Designed for minimal travel disruption
- Expert instructors at every session
Travelling from outside these areas? Our team will help you plan the most convenient option and schedule your training efficiently.
What you’ll be able to do
By the end of this, you’ll have the knowledge and capability to operate safely, meet CAA requirements, and carry out commercial drone work.
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.
Why Train with Coptrz?
Coptrz is at the forefront of delivering the new RPC-L1 Part A 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 Part A 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 Part A 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 with our PDRA-01 Operations Manual Review Service, like operations manual templates and 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.
Strategic Positioning Statement:
"As the UK’s most experienced drone trainer, Coptrz offers a modular RPC-L1 Part A route that saves time—online theory at your pace, followed by in-person flight testing built on over a decade of training excellence."
Course Pricing
RPC-L1 Part A Online Drone Training Course
(Online Course with In-Person Flight Instruction and Flight Assessment)
£697.00 excl. VAT
RPC-L1 Part A Face-to-Face Drone Training Course
(In-Person Classroom Course with Flight Instruction and Flight Assessment)
£1194.00 excl. VAT
GVC To RPC-L1 Part A Conversion Drone Training Course
(Online Course with In-Person Flight Instruction and Flight Assessment)
£497.00 excl. VAT
Not sure which training route is right for you?
Our team can recommend the best pathway based on your experience, goals, and timeline. Speak to an expert to get personalised guidance before you book.
Questions? We've Got Answers.
The RPC-L1 Part A is a CAA-recognised certification that allows drone pilots to operate in the Specific Category under the UK SORA framework. It replaces legacy qualifications like the GVC and focuses on real-world competency rather than just theoretical knowledge.
No prior flying experience is required. However, you must hold a valid UK CAA Flyer ID before starting the course.
The RPC-L1 is part of a new, modular certification framework. Unlike the GVC, it focuses on competency-based assessment, removes the requirement for an Operations Manual during training, and provides a clear progression pathway to more advanced certifications.
Yes. You can complete the theory portion online at your own pace. Practical flight training and assessment are completed in person at one of our CAA-approved locations.
The duration depends on your chosen route. Many pilots complete the theory within a few days, followed by practical training and assessment shortly after. The flexible structure allows you to progress at your own pace.
The course includes structured theoretical learning, knowledge assessments, practical flight training, and a final competency-based flight assessment with a Coptrz instructor.
Unlike older qualifications, the RPC-L1 does not require you to create or submit an Operations Manual as part of the course - but you must still have one to legally operate in the Specific Category.
Once you successfully complete the course, you will be issued your RPC-L1 Part A certificate. You can then apply for a CAA Operational Authorisation to legally operate in the Specific Category.
Yes. The RPC-L1 Part A is designed for professional drone pilots operating commercially or preparing to work in regulated environments.
Practical flight training and assessments are conducted at Coptrz-approved locations across the UK.
Yes. The RPC-L1 Part A is the first step in a modular pathway. You can progress to higher-level certifications such as RPC-L1 Part B and beyond, enabling more advanced operations like BVLOS.
You’ll have access to expert instructors, structured learning materials, and ongoing support throughout both the theory and practical stages of your training.
Pricing depends on the training route you choose (online + practical or full face-to-face). Full pricing details are available in the course pricing section above.
You can start immediately with the online theory component. There are no fixed start dates, giving you complete flexibility.
