Learn with the National Drones Institute
CASA-accredited drone training courses for every skill level. From recreational awareness to commercial licensing, there's a course that's right for you.
Why Train with National Drones?
National Drones Institute is your all-in-one service for RPAS training, backed by official CASA accreditation.
CASA Accredited
Officially accredited by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority for drone pilot training across Australia.
Expert Instructors
Learn from experienced commercial drone pilots with real-world industry knowledge and operational expertise.
Nationwide Delivery
Training delivered across Australia with practical sessions in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, and Canberra.
Our Courses
Choose from our range of drone training courses to suit your experience level and career goals.
RePL Licence
Get your Remote Pilot Licence in 5 days — the CASA certification you need to fly drones commercially anywhere in Australia.
$2,400 + GST
Certificate III in Aviation (Remote Piloting)
Australia's most comprehensive drone qualification — your RePL plus advanced operations in one 10-day nationally recognised course.
Drone Awareness Course
A one-day crash course for teams exploring drones — understand the regulations, capabilities, and ROI before you invest.
$199
Sub 2kg Course
Fly sub-2kg drones commercially without a full RePL — a 2-day course covering CASA rules, safety, and practical skills.
Online RePL
Study the RePL theory at your own pace from anywhere, then complete a 2-day practical — the most flexible path to your licence.
From $999 inc GST$1,650 inc GST
Upcoming Course Dates
Secure your place on an upcoming course.
Melbourne — Melbourne metropolitan area — exact venue confirmed on enrolment
26–27 May 2026
Do I Need a RePL Qualification?
CASA requires a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) for anyone conducting commercial drone operations with aircraft exceeding 2kg. If you plan to use drones for business purposes such as aerial photography, surveying, inspections, or agricultural spraying, you will need a RePL.
For recreational flying of drones under 2kg, a RePL is not required, but our Drone Awareness Course is recommended to ensure you understand the rules and fly safely.
What is the Difference Between the Cert III and RePL?
Both the Certificate III in Aviation (Remote Piloting) and the RePL provide the equivalent commercial licensing outcome. The key difference is that the Certificate III is a nationally recognised qualification that includes industry-specific knowledge and may qualify for university credit.
The Certificate III is ideal for students entering drone-dependent industries who want a broader educational foundation, while the RePL is suited for professionals who need efficient, focused licensing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there any free drone courses in Australia?
- Yes. National Drones offers a free Drone Awareness Course — an interactive, self-paced online course covering air law, airspace rules, meteorology, and safe flying practices. It is perfect for beginners and recreational pilots. We also offer a free sample lesson from the Online RePL course so you can try before you commit.
- What drone licence do I need to fly commercially in Australia?
- You need a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) issued by CASA. National Drones offers the RePL as a 5-day in-person course ($2,400 + GST) or as a flexible Online RePL ($1,650 inc GST) with self-paced theory and a 2-day practical. Both include the Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate (AROC).
- What is the cheapest way to get a drone licence in Australia?
- The Online RePL at $1,650 inc GST is the most affordable pathway. You study theory at your own pace online, then attend a 2-day practical assessment. Promotional pricing may be available — check our schedule for current offers.
- How long does drone training take?
- The in-person RePL is 5 days. The Online RePL theory is self-paced (most complete it in 2–4 weeks) plus a 2-day practical. The Certificate III in Aviation is 10 days. The free Drone Awareness Course can be completed in a few hours.
- Where does National Drones run drone training courses?
- We run in-person courses in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, and Canberra. The Online RePL theory can be completed from anywhere in Australia, with practical assessments at all major locations monthly.
Ready to See What Drones Can Do?
Tell us about your project and we'll send you a tailored proposal — most quotes are turned around within 24 hours.