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    RPC-L1 Online Drone Training Course
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    RPC-L1 Online Drone Training Course

    RPC-L1 Online Drone Training Course

    Regular price £836.40 Incl. VAT Save £-836.40


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    Next-Gen Commercial Drone Training Aligned With The UK SORA Framework
    Set To Replace The GVC By January 2028
    Study Remotely, Sit Your Theory Exam Online
    In-Person Flight Instruction & Assessment Held In Leeds
    CAA-Recognised Qualification For Commercial Operations
    Get Certified To Fly VLOS Missions In The Specific Category
    Valid For Five Years With 2-Hour/90-Day Flight Currency
    Future-Ready Certification Aligned To UK SORA Model
    The First Step In A New Tiered Certification System (RPC-L1, RPC-L2 & RPC-L3)

    Browse the Range

    RPC-L1 Online Drone Training Course

    Regular price £836.40

    RPC-L1 Drone Training Course (In-Person Classroom)

    Regular price £1,432.80

    GVC To RPC-L1 Conversion Drone Training Course

    Regular price £596.40

    Trusted By 12,000+ Drone Operators

    The UK's Leading Drone Experts

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    RPC-L1 Online Drone Training Course

    £836.40

    DESCRIPTION

    Get future-ready with the RPC-L1 Online Drone Training Course from Coptrz, the UK’s leading CAA-approved training provider. As the General Visual Line of Sight Certificate (GVC) is being phased out by the end of 2027, RPC-L1 is set to replace it as the new industry standard for professional drone operations in the Specific Category. This flexible online course delivers in-depth theoretical training across six essential modules, followed by in-person flight instruction and assessment at the Coptrz Leeds site. Learn at your own pace with expert-led webinars and digital resources, and qualify using Coptrz-owned aircraft and insurance. With no operations manual required and a direct path to Operational Authorisation, RPC-L1 prepares you for safe, compliant flying under the UK SORA model. Stay ahead of regulatory change and secure your next-level certification with Coptrz today.

    WHAT'S INCLUDED?

    RPC-L1 (Remote Pilot Certificate - Level 1) is a pilot competency assessment programme, recognised by the UK CAA for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) operations within the Specific category, that consists of:

    Stage 1 - Obtain a UK CAA Flyer ID

    Stage 2 - Theoretical Knowledge Instruction (e-learning)
    You will complete theoretical knowledge training covering 6 modules of regulatory and operational foundations required for Specific Category operations. This stage ensures a strong understanding of air law, airspace operating principles, human performance and limitations, meteorology, unmanned aircraft general knowledge, and operating procedures. Training is completed at your own pace through the Coptrz Academy e-learning platform.

    Stage 3 - Theoretical Knowledge Assessment (remote)
    This stage confirms your understanding of the core RPC-L1 theoretical syllabus through a formal examination conducted in line with CAA requirements. The RPC-L1 theory assessment has 40 multiple choice questions with a 75% pass mark and lasts 90 minutes (with additional time available for eligible candidates). Remote examinations are taken under controlled conditions, with an evidence audit period before the result is confirmed.

    Stage 4 - In-Person Ground and Practical Flight Instruction (training is delivered on the specific aircraft category you are qualifying on, either rotorcraft or fixed wing)
    You will undertake a minimum of 2 hours structured ground and flight instruction with an approved Coptrz Practical Flight Instructor in Leeds. This phase focuses on competency-based coaching, developing:

    • Aircraft handling and control
    • Normal and abnormal procedures
    • Threat and error management
    • Decision making and situational awareness

    Stage 5 - In-Person Practical Flight Assessment
    Once the instructor signs you off as competent after Practical Flight Instruction, you will complete a practical flight assessment conducted by an independent Coptrz Practical Flight Assessor in Leeds. This assessment evaluates real-world pilot competence, not just manoeuvre completion, and is conducted separately from instruction.

    Stage 6 - Issue of Level 1 Remote Pilot Certificate by Coptrz
    On successful completion of all required elements, Coptrz will issue your Level 1 Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC-L1) under our CAA Recognised Assessment Entity privileges which allows you to apply for an Operational Authorisation from the UK CAA. An RPC-L1 is valid for a period of five years from the date shown on the certificate. To remain current, the remote pilot must maintain a minimum of two hours of live flight experience within the preceding 90 days from the date of issue.

    Stage 7 - Candidate applies to Civil Aviation Authority for an Operational Authorisation
    You will then apply for a PDRA-01 or UK SORA-based Operational Authorisation from the UK CAA to operate in the Specific Category.

    DELIVERY & RETURNS

    DELIVERY
      Standard delivery is FREE on all UK orders over £99. For orders below £99, our standard shipping is £5.99. All shipments are sent via next working day delivery in the UK. Free shipping does not apply to equipment hire orders. Online orders placed by 12.30pm will be dispatched same day from our warehouse/distribution partners. Orders placed after 12.30pm will be dispatched on the next working day (excluding weekends and bank holidays). Your order should be with you on the next working day from dispatch. If you haven't received your order within 5 working days, then please log-in to your account and you will be able to find the status there. If you checked-out as a guest and/or don't have an account, then please get in touch for help by contacting our team at services@coptrz.com. Currently we only ship to the UK but hopefully soon we'll be in more countries. Digital products purchased on shop.coptrz.com like online training courses (incl. F2F training courses), drone service plans and e-gift vouchers are exempt from shipping costs, no matter their selling price.
    RETURNS

    We’re committed to making your shopping experience seamless. Coptrz has a 30-day return policy for consumer purchases, which means you have 30 days after receiving your item to request a return. To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unused, and in its original packaging (unless the product is faulty). You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase. To start a return, you can contact us at services@coptrz.com. If your return is accepted, we’ll send you instructions on how and where to send your package. Items sent back to us without first requesting a return will not be accepted. You can always contact us for any return question at services@coptrz.com. If you are a corporate business, Coptrz standard terms and conditions apply (call our customer support team at 0330 111 7177).

    Damages and issues

    Please inspect your order upon reception and contact us immediately if the item is defective, damaged or if you receive the wrong item, so that we can evaluate the issue and make it right.

    Exceptions / non-returnable items

    Certain types of items cannot be returned under this policy, such as custom-made goods, online training courses or activated drones/software. For detailed terms and guidance, feel free to contact us at services@coptrz.com. Please get in touch if you have questions or concerns about your specific item. Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns on gift cards.

    Exchanges

    The fastest way to ensure you get what you want is to return the item you have, and once the return is accepted, make a separate purchase for the new item.

    Refunds

    We will notify you once we’ve received and inspected your return, and let you know if the refund was approved or not. If approved, you’ll be automatically refunded on your original payment method. Please allow at least 3-5 working days for your refund to be processed once it has been approved by our team.

    FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

    What is the RPC-L1 drone training course?
    The Level 1 Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC-L1) is a CAA-approved certification designed for drone pilots operating in the Specific Category. It replaces the older GVC and focuses on real-world pilot competence, decision-making, and compliant flying aligned with the UK SORA framework.

    Is RPC-L1 replacing the GVC?
    Yes. The CAA is phasing out the General Visual Line of Sight Certificate (GVC) by January 2028. RPC-L1 is the new standard for professional drone pilots and is already required for SORA-based Operational Authorisations from January 2026 onwards.

    Who is the RPC-L1 course for?
    RPC-L1 is ideal for professional drone operators working in the Specific Category, those seeking future-ready certification aligned to UK SORA, and current GVC holders looking to upgrade to the new framework.

    What does the RPC-L1 course include?
    The course includes six theory modules (air law, meteorology, operations, etc.), a multiple-choice theory exam (theory exam not required with the conversion course), at least 2 hours of practical flight instruction, and a practical flight assessment.

    How long is the RPC-L1 valid for?
    The RPC-L1 certificate is valid for five years. To maintain it, pilots must log a minimum of 2 hours of flight time every 90 days. After five years, a short renewal course and check exam are required.

    What is the difference between RPC-L1 and GVC?
    RPC-L1 is aligned to the flexible, risk-based UK SORA model. It does not require an operations manual, is category-specific (rotorcraft or fixed-wing), and is part of a progression path toward advanced certifications like RPC-L2 and RPC-L3. GVC is a legacy, one-off qualification.

    Can I choose between online and classroom training?
    Yes. You can complete theory training online with flexible access, or in person through a structured classroom course at Coptrz Leeds. Both routes include in-person flight instruction and assessment at our approved flying site.

    Where does the practical flight assessment take place?
    All flight instruction and assessments are conducted at the Coptrz Leeds site (Spring End Farm). This is the only CAA-approved location for RPC-L1 courses under our RAE(PC) status.

    Do I need my own drone or insurance?
    No. All practical flight elements are completed using Coptrz-owned drones under Coptrz’ insurance, providing a consistent, safe and compliant training environment.

    Can I convert my GVC to an RPC-L1?
    Yes. GVC holders can take a conversion course to upgrade to RPC-L1. You won’t need to sit the theory exam again, but you must complete the online theory modules, in addition to the in-person flight training and practical assessment.

    Can I train for both rotorcraft and fixed-wing drones?
    Yes. RPC-L1 is category-specific, so you’ll need separate certificates for each. Coptrz offers a bridging course if you already hold one and want to add the other.

    How do I apply for Operational Authorisation after RPC-L1?
    Once certified, you can apply to the UK CAA for a PDRA-01 or UK SORA-based Operational Authorisation to operate in the Specific Category.

    Why should I train with Coptrz?
    Coptrz is a leading CAA-approved training provider with over 12,000 pilots trained since 2016, a 99% pass rate, and a reputation trusted by enterprise clients like the BBC and Balfour Beatty. Our courses combine regulatory expertise with real-world application and post-training support.

    Choose Your Path To RPC-L1 Professional Drone Certification

    Whether you're starting your drone career, upgrading your credentials or stepping into regulated operations, the RPC-L1 framework offers a flexible, future-focused certification aligned to the UK SORA model. Valid for five years and recognised by the CAA for Specific Category flights, RPC-L1 sets the foundation for advanced drone operations. Choose the course format that fits your learning style and experience level.

    Online Training With In-Person Flight Assessment

    Learn at your own pace with our flexible online theory modules, backed by expert-led webinars and 24/7 access to course materials before taking the online theory exam. Once complete, attend your practical flight instruction and assessment in person at our Coptrz Leeds site. Ideal for professionals balancing training with a busy schedule.

    Classroom Training With In-Person Flight Assessment

    Prefer face-to-face learning? This immersive classroom option delivers two full days of expert-led theory instruction and exam at our Coptrz Leeds centre. You'll then progress to hands-on flight instruction and assessment. Perfect for those who value structure, support and peer interaction.

    GVC To RPC-L1 Conversion With In-Person Flight Assessment

    Already hold a GVC? Fast-track your future-readiness with this conversion course. While you're exempt from the theory exam, you’ll still complete the theory modules online and undertake in-person flight instruction and assessment to meet CAA standards. A streamlined route to stay compliant under the new UK drone regulations.

    What Modules Are Covered?

    For the theoretical learning aspect of this RPC-L1 course, you will go through 6 modules in total:

    - Module 1: Air Law
    - Module 2: Airspace Operating Principles
    - Module 3: Human Performance and Limitations
    - Module 4: Meteorology
    - Module 5: Unmanned Aircraft General Knowledge
    - Module 6: Operating Procedures

    Flight Instruction & Assessment

    Flight instruction focuses on applying theoretical knowledge in realistic operational scenarios, including UK SORA based planning, aircraft handling and control, navigation and airspace awareness, abnormal and emergency procedures, and effective decision making with threat and error management. All candidates must complete this phase and pass an independent Practical Flight Assessment, including those holding a valid GVC. While GVC holders are exempt from the RPC-L1 theory exam, the practical assessment ensures consistent, evidence based competence in line with CAA RPC-L1 standards.

    What’s Driving The Shift From GVC To RPC-L1?

    The move from GVC to RPC-L1 reflects changes in UK drone regulation, with the CAA introducing the RPC framework in 2025 to align pilot training with the UK SORA risk-based model. As the GVC is gradually phased out, RPC-L1 is becoming the new entry-level standard for Specific Category operations, with many new Operational Authorisations from January 2026 expected to require it. Insurers and employers are also increasingly recognising RPC-L1 as the preferred proof of competence, making it the future-ready qualification for UK drone professionals.

    Why Train With Coptrz?

    Coptrz is one of the UK’s most established CAA Recognised Assessment Entities and was among the first approved to deliver the RPC-L1 certification. With over 12,000 pilots trained and a 99 percent pass rate, Coptrz is trusted by enterprise organisations including the BBC and Balfour Beatty. The RPC-L1 course combines structured online theory with hands-on flight training and an independent practical assessment, with options for both multirotor and fixed-wing aircraft. Learners also benefit from ongoing support, access to the Coptrz Academy, and expert guidance to help secure CAA Operational Authorisation.

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