What Is the Drone Licence RPC Framework Uk

If you're operating a drone in the UK, you'll need to understand the new RPC Framework. It’s a tiered qualification system designed to align your skills with specific operational complexities, from VLOS to advanced BVLOS.

This framework is essential for SORA compliance, but how the progressive levels work might affect your ability to fly legally.

What exactly does each certificate level require, and where will you fit within this new structure?

What is the RPC Framework

A progressive pathway, the Remote Pilot Competency (RPC) framework is your qualification system for conducting increasingly complex drone operations. It’s now mandatory if you’re operating under the UK SORA (Specific Operations Risk Assessment) framework, which officially replaced the Operating Safety Case (OSC) process on April 23, 2025. You’ll need this qualification to lawfully conduct your specific category missions.

The framework's advanced levels—RPC-L2, L3, and L4—form a tiered structure for drone pilots undertaking various Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations. Each certificate is directly linked to an operation’s Air Risk Class (ARC).

This means you can’t fly a high-risk mission without holding the corresponding qualification. This direct link between your drone pilot competency and mission risk guarantees you’re properly equipped for the complexity of the flight, ensuring safety and full regulatory compliance.

RPC-L1 (Remote Pilot Certificate Level 1)

Your gateway into the RPC system, the RPC-L1 certificate qualifies you to conduct Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) operations up to 120 meters AGL under a UK SORA-based Operational Authorisation. To earn it, you'll have to pass both a comprehensive theoretical knowledge exam and a practical flight assessment.

The theory test covers essential topics like air law, navigation, meteorology, human factors, and the principles of UK SORA.

During your practical flight assessment, you'll prove your drone piloting competence by executing VLOS drills, navigation exercises, and critical emergency procedures. Your certificate is issued specifically for the drone type you trained on: either rotorcraft (RPC-L1R) or aeroplanes (RPC-L1A).

While your RPC-L1 is valid for five years, you must stay current. This means you’re required to log at least two hours of flight time within every 90-day period to maintain your qualification.

RPC-L2: Intermediate Competence

The second tier in the framework, the RPC-L2 certificate qualifies you for VLOS and Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations within ARC-a environments—low-risk, segregated airspaces like Atypical Air Environments (AAEs) where no other traffic operates. Before you can pursue this certificate, you'll need to meet a few key prerequisites.

You must hold a valid RPC-L1, be at least 18 years old, and have logged a minimum of 50 flight hours in the Specific Category using the same drone type, whether it’s a rotorcraft or an aeroplane.

Your training for the RPC-L2 delves into more advanced concepts. You'll cover BVLOS theory, operational planning, and comprehensive risk management. The course also demands at least five hours of hands-on flight instruction, culminating in a practical flight assessment to prove your skills.

Once earned, your RPC-L2 certificate remains valid for three years.

RPC-L3: Advanced Competence

Progressing beyond intermediate operations, the RPC-L3 certificate is designed for en-route BVLOS flights up to ARC-c, allowing you to operate in moderate-risk environments such as controlled airspace and near populated areas. To qualify, you must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid RPC-L2 certificate.

You'll also need to prove you've logged a minimum of 50 BVLOS flight hours within the same drone category and possess a Light Aircraft Pilot Licence (LAPL) medical certificate.

Your training journey includes advanced theoretical modules and in-depth practical training, which you're required to complete within a six-month window. To demonstrate your high level of competence, you'll successfully pass three distinct flight assessments.

Once issued, your RPC-L3 certificate remains valid for three years, confirming your ability to conduct advanced, moderate-risk drone operations.

RPC-L4: Expert Competence

As the highest level of competency, the RPC-L4 certificate permits VLOS and BVLOS operations in any ARC, including high-risk ARC-d airspace alongside crewed aviation. To qualify, you'll need to be at least 18 and hold a valid RPC-L3 certificate. You must also prove significant experience by logging a minimum of 75 BVLOS flight hours within the same drone category. Additionally, you're required to possess a valid LAPL medical certificate.

This expert qualification is forward-thinking, preparing for a future where drones might fully integrate into IFR airspace with manned aviation. However, you should note the framework is still evolving. Widespread operations can't start until several national and international policies are adopted.

You'll find that the certificate is valid for one year, and you must complete an annual renewal to maintain your expert qualification.

Progressive System Benefits The New RPC Framework

Beyond the specifics of any single certificate level, this new tiered system creates a fairer approach where your training requirements scale with operational risk.

You won't be over-training for simple, low-risk flights, nor will you find yourself under-prepared for highly complex missions. It's a sensible structure.

You'll progress systematically through a clear competency ladder, gaining significant professional recognition as you advance into more sophisticated operations. This deliberate progression does more than just track your skills; it actively raises the entire industry's standards.

For your clients, this is a game-changer. It provides them with absolute confidence that each operation you undertake is backed by a proven, verified level of training and competency. This framework ensures that your capabilities perfectly match the mission’s complexity, creating a safer and more reliable professional drone industry for everyone involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Connect with Certified UK Drone Pilots for Your SORA Mission

Navigating the UK's complex RPC framework to find a drone operator with the correct certification for high-risk missions is a significant challenge for businesses. Securing a professional who is not just skilled, but also holds the specific RPC-L1 to L4 certificate that matches your operation's Air Risk Class, is crucial for compliance and safety.

HireDronePilot solves this problem. As the UK's premier managed marketplace, we specialise in connecting businesses with verified professional drone pilots for hire. Our network includes CAA-approved drone operators holding the full range of RPC certifications, ensuring you can find the right expert for any SORA requirement, from simple VLOS jobs to complex BVLOS operations.

We streamline drone services through competitive bidding, ensuring quality, compliance, and value for every aerial project across the United Kingdom. When you need to find expert RPC-qualified drone pilots, our platform makes the process simple and secure.

Ready to ensure your high-risk drone operation is fully compliant and professionally executed? Post your project on HireDronePilot and connect with the UK’s leading SORA-qualified drone pilots today.