Agricultural Drone Licensing in Australia: RePL, Chemical Certification & Operator Requirements

Operating agricultural spray drones commercially in Australia requires compliance with aviation regulations (CASA) and agricultural chemical application standards. This guide outlines the complete licensing pathway.

Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) Requirements

CASA requires all commercial drone operators to hold a Remote Pilot Licence. For agricultural spray operations, an agricultural rating endorsement is mandatory.

Training pathway: Complete approved RePL training (20–40 hours), pass theoretical exam, demonstrate practical competency, obtain medical certificate (basic Class 2 sufficient for most operations).

Timeline: 3–6 months from training commencement to licence issue, depending on training provider availability and examination schedules.

Cost: $4,000–$8,000 for training, examination, and initial certification.

Agricultural Rating Endorsement

The agricultural rating qualifies pilots specifically for aerial application operations. Requirements include additional training on spray system operation, meteorological considerations, and agricultural application techniques.

Practical assessment includes demonstrated competency in spray pattern control, drift management, and operational safety procedures.

Chemical Application Certification

Separate from aviation licensing, agricultural chemical application requires certification under state-based agricultural regulations. Requirements vary by state but typically include:

Completion of approved chemical application training course (ChemCert or equivalent). Understanding of label requirements, mixing procedures, and environmental protection measures. Demonstrated knowledge of spray equipment calibration and maintenance.

Operator Accreditation

Commercial spray operations require operator accreditation beyond individual pilot licensing. This includes business registration, insurance coverage, and operational procedures documentation.

Liability insurance: Minimum $20 million public liability coverage standard for commercial aerial application.

State-Specific Variations

Queensland, NSW, Victoria, WA, and SA each maintain slightly different agricultural chemical application requirements. Operators must verify requirements with their state agricultural authority.

Our compliance checklist identifies jurisdiction-specific requirements based on your operational location.

Certification Timeline for New Operators

Complete pathway from zero to operational typically requires 6–9 months:

Months 1–3: RePL training and examination Months 3–5: Agricultural rating training and practical assessment Months 4–6: Chemical application certification Months 5–7: Insurance procurement and operator accreditation Months 6–9: Equipment acquisition and operational readiness

Already hold existing certifications? Assessment timeline reduces significantly for operators with current RePL or chemical qualifications.