The Remote Pilot Certification (RPC) from RocketDNA
Unlock the Skies: Take Flight with Confidence through our Remote Pilot Certificate Training.

Course Information
Our Remote Pilot Certification Training is designed to equip aspiring drone pilots with the knowledge, skills, and certification required to operate drones commercially. This comprehensive course covers all essential aspects of remote piloting, ensuring a solid foundation for safe and successful operations.
- 18 years & older
- High School diploma or equivalent
- Class 3 Medical required for BVLOS candidate, OR Class 5 "self-declaration" Medical
- Proficiency in the English language, both spoken and written
Course Duration
Course Cost
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Learning Outcomes
- Remote Pilot Certificate Theoretical Training
- Understanding of Regulations
- Remote Pilot Certificate Practical Training
- Proficiency in Flight Principles
- Medical, Language Proficiency, Radio 02 license, Skills Test & DRE Sign Out
- Flight Planning Skills
- All Administration and Application
- Drone Equipment Knowledge
- A South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Remote Pilot Certificate
- Safety and Risk Management
- Weather Assessment
- Aeronautical Charts and Airspace Awareness
- Emergency Procedures
- Practical Flight Skills

Who is the Course for?
- Drone Enthusiasts
- Aspiring Commercial Drone Operators
Individuals working in industries such as:
- Photography
- Insurance
- Cinematography
- Infrastructure maintenance
- Agriculture
- Construction
- Government and Public Sector Employees
- Real Estate
- Researchers and Scientists

Key Focus Areas
- Drone Flight Principles
- Weather Conditions and Effects
- Safety and Risk Management
- Aeronautical Charts and Airspace
- Navigation and Flight Planning
- Emergency Procedures and Risk Mitigation
- Drone Equipment and Maintenance
- Ethical and Legal Considerations
- Communication and Situational Awareness

- Legally Operate Commercially
- Expanded Career Opportunities
- Expanded Service Offerings
- Enhanced Skill Set and Versatility
- Teamwork and Leadership Skills
- Increased Earning Potential
- Safety and Risk Management
- Credibility
Interested in becoming a qualified drone pilot?
Launch your career today and benefit from our hands-on training & knowledge

Frequently Asked Questions
- Yes – You need a Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) if you are flying a drone for commercial, corporate, or non-private use (i.e., if you are receiving remuneration for flying).
- No – If you are flying purely for personal and recreational use, under certain restrictions:
- Not in controlled airspace
- Below 120m AGL
- Away from people and property
The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) is the sole authority that issues RPCs in South Africa.
- Age requirement: Minimum of 18 years old
- Medical certificate: Class 3 Medical Certificate from an aviation doctor
- English proficiency: At least ICAO level 4
- Exams: Pass various modules with 75% or higher
No. A theory course can be an excellent starting point even without prior experience.
You must complete an approved RPC training course at a SACAA-approved Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems Training Organisation.
The course covers:
- Air Law
- Aircraft Technical
- Principles of Flight
- Meteorology
- Human Factors
- Operational Procedures
- Navigation
Yes. The practical training takes place in Rayton at the Willem Prinsloo Agricultural Museum over a 5-day period.
A full-time course, including theory and practical components, typically takes around 2 weeks, depending on student progress and weather conditions.
Yes. The RPC must be renewed every 2 years by:
- Maintaining a valid medical certificate
- Meeting currency requirements (e.g., recent flying hours)
- Possibly undergoing a revalidation check
No. The RPC is only valid in South Africa. Other countries may require you to convert it to their own licensing standards.
You may face:
- Fines
- Seizure of equipment
- Legal action
- Blacklisting from future certification
Visit the SACAA official website: https://www.caa.co.za
- Yes, an Unmanned Aerial Systems Operating Certificate (UASOC) is required for businesses or organisations operating drones commercially.
- Individual pilots flying under a company ROC must hold an RPL.
- You don’t need an ROC for personal/recreational flying.

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