How to convert an RAAus RPC to a CASA RPL in Australia.
Converting your RAAus RPC to a CASA RPL opens up controlled airspace, heavier aircraft, and one-time endorsement transfers. Here's the paperwork, flight review requirements, and what you need to know.
Mission Profile: RPC to RPL Conversion
Controlled Airspace & Heavy Aircraft
2–3 Months (CASA Processing)
Rent Cessnas & Pipers (VH-Reg)
Admin Fee + Flight Review
An RAAus Recreational Pilot Certificate (RPC) is equivalent to a CASA Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL). The conversion gives you access to controlled airspace, heavier aircraft, and CASA's regulatory framework.
Why convert?
If you're happy buzzing around in RAAus aircraft, you may never need an RPL. But conversion opens up capabilities you can't access with an RPC.
- Controlled airspace and aerodromes: You need an RPL to add controlled airspace and controlled aerodrome endorsements. Without these, you're locked out of major airports and busy airspace.
- Wider aircraft selection: An RPL lets you fly aircraft up to 1,500 kg and rent Cessnas at most flying schools. Useful for outback trips or when RAAus aircraft aren't available.
- One-time endorsement transfer: Anything on your RPC automatically transfers to your RPL when you first submit the paperwork. You only get one shot at this. Get nav and tailwheel endorsements on your RPC first — training is cheaper in the RAAus system.
Warning: Processing timeline The conversion can take several months. Start early if you need the endorsements for a specific trip or goal.
What transfers across
Your category rating, aircraft class rating, and design feature endorsements transfer directly from your RPC to your RPL.
You'll also receive a recreational navigation endorsement if you meet both conditions:
- Your RPC authorizes cross-country flights.
- You've completed at least 25 hours flying time (including 20 hours dual and 5 hours as pilot-in-command).
| Endorsement Code | What it allows | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| RPCT | Controlled Aerodrome Endorsement | Required to land at Towered airports (Class D/C) |
| RPCA | Controlled Airspace Endorsement | Required to fly through controlled airspace |
| RPFR | Flight Radio Endorsement | Automatic if you hold a flight radiotelephone operator licence |
| RPNA | Recreational Navigation Endorsement | Requires 5 hours solo cross-country minimum |
Conversion steps
CASA requires paperwork and a flight review. Note that flying schools often add their own assessment flights before signing you off.
- Complete application form 61-1RTX: Fill out the Recreational Pilot Licence application form. The form specifies what evidence to provide.
- Complete a flight review: Do a flight review for your aircraft rating. An instructor authorized to conduct flight training for your aircraft rating will assess your competence.
- Submission: Once you pass, the instructor informs CASA and CASA updates your licence record.
RPL Limitations
An RPL offers the same navigation capabilities as a private pilot licence (PPL) without an instrument rating. However, distinct restrictions apply.
Single-engine aircraft only
You can only fly single-engine aircraft up to 1,500 kg. To fly multi-engine aeroplanes or heavier aircraft, you need a Private Pilot Licence and a class rating.
Not recognized internationally
The RPL is not an ICAO licence. Other countries (like the USA or New Zealand) generally do not recognize it. To fly in another country, you need approval from that country's aviation authority.
Passenger carrying rules
With an RPC, you can carry one passenger. With an RPL, you can carry more than one passenger if you either:
- Hold a Class 1 or Class 2 medical certificate.
- Fly with another pilot who holds a Class 1 or Class 2 medical certificate in a control seat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my Navigation endorsement transfer?
Only if you have completed at least 25 hours flying time (20 dual / 5 solo PIC) and your RPC authorizes cross-country flights. If you haven't met the hours, the endorsement won't transfer.
Can I fly at night with an RPL?
Only solo and only during training under flight instructor supervision. You cannot carry passengers at night.
How do I keep my RPL active?
You must complete a flight review every 2 years. To carry passengers, you must also have completed 3 take-offs and landings in the previous 90 days.