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RePL practice questions

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First 50 of 200 questions. Each one lists the choices, the correct answer, and an explanation. The checker at the top of this page saves progress in this browser when it is available.

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Question 1Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

What is the minimum age for a person to be issued a remote pilot licence (RePL) by CASA?

  1. 16 years Correct answer.
  2. 18 years
  3. 21 years
  4. 14 years

Explanation

CASA sets the minimum age for an RePL at 16 years, so a younger person cannot hold a remote pilot licence even after completing training. The higher age of 18 applies to an individual who wishes to hold a remote operator's certificate.

Question 2Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

Which body issues a remote pilot licence in Australia?

  1. Airservices Australia
  2. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau
  3. The Part 141 training organisation that delivers the training
  4. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority Correct answer.

Explanation

CASA is the regulator that issues RePLs and ReOCs under CASR Part 101. Training organisations deliver the training and assessment, but the licence itself is issued by CASA, while Airservices Australia manages airspace and the ATSB investigates accidents.

Question 3Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

Under the standard operating conditions, what is the maximum height above ground level at which an RPA may be flown?

  1. 100 m
  2. 120 m Correct answer.
  3. 150 m
  4. 75 m

Explanation

The standard operating conditions cap RPA height at 120 m (about 400 ft) above ground level. Flying above that height requires approval because of the risk of conflict with manned aircraft.

Question 4Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

Under the standard operating conditions, what is the minimum distance an RPA must keep from people who are not involved in the operation?

  1. 15 m
  2. 20 m
  3. 30 m Correct answer.
  4. 10 m

Explanation

The standard operating conditions require the RPA to be kept at least 30 m away from anyone not taking part in the operation. This horizontal separation protects bystanders if control of the aircraft is lost.

Question 5Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

What does keeping an RPA within visual line of sight require?

  1. Seeing the RPA directly with the unaided eye Correct answer.
  2. Having a spotter use binoculars while the pilot watches the feed
  3. Watching the RPA through binoculars from a distance
  4. Watching the live video feed from the RPA's camera

Explanation

Visual line of sight means the remote pilot can see the RPA directly, continuously and unaided, apart from normal corrective spectacles or contact lenses. Camera feeds and magnification devices do not satisfy the requirement because they narrow the field of view and delay detection of other aircraft.

Question 6Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

Under the standard operating conditions, when may an RPA be flown?

  1. At night, provided the RPA is fitted with anti-collision lighting
  2. At any time, provided the pilot holds a night rating
  3. Only during the day Correct answer.
  4. Only with prior approval from Airservices Australia

Explanation

Daylight operation is one of the standard operating conditions, so flying at night requires CASA approval. Fitting lights or holding other ratings does not remove the need for that approval.

Question 7Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

Above what weight must an RPA be registered with CASA?

  1. 250 g Correct answer.
  2. 25 kg
  3. 150 g
  4. 2 kg

Explanation

RPA weighing more than 250 g must be registered with CASA, whether they are flown recreationally or commercially. Registration is a separate requirement from licensing.

Question 8Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

Which part of the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations sets out the rules for operating RPA in Australia?

  1. CASR Part 61
  2. CASR Part 101 Correct answer.
  3. CASR Part 91
  4. CASR Part 141

Explanation

CASR Part 101 deals with unmanned aircraft and rockets and is the principal source of RPA operating rules. Part 61 covers flight crew licensing generally, Part 91 general operating rules and Part 141 flight training organisations.

Question 9Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

What is the maximum weight of an RPA that may be operated commercially under the excluded category without a remote operator's certificate?

  1. 7 kg
  2. 2 kg Correct answer.
  3. 250 g
  4. 25 kg

Explanation

The excluded category covers commercial RPA operations with aircraft weighing less than 2 kg flown within the standard operating conditions. Above that weight an ReOC is required.

Question 10Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

Which person must an organisation nominate when it applies for a remote operator's certificate?

  1. A chief remote pilot who holds an RePL Correct answer.
  2. A licensed aircraft maintenance engineer
  3. A safety manager approved by Airservices Australia
  4. A head of training holding a Part 141 certificate

Explanation

An ReOC holder must have a chief remote pilot who holds the relevant RePL and is responsible for the operator's RPA operations. The other roles are not required by Part 101 for RPA operators.

Question 11Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

Which document must an applicant provide to CASA when applying for a remote operator's certificate?

  1. A maintenance schedule approved by the aircraft manufacturer
  2. A copy of every remote pilot's logbook for the past five years
  3. An operations manual setting out how operations will be managed Correct answer.
  4. A letter of support from the local council

Explanation

An ReOC application must include an operations manual that sets out how the operator manages and conducts its RPA operations. Pilot logbooks and council support are not part of the application.

Question 12Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

A remote operator's certificate holder wants to conduct flights at night. What must the operator obtain?

  1. Nothing further, provided the RPA is fitted with lights
  2. Approval from CASA Correct answer.
  3. Notification to Airservices Australia on the day of the flight
  4. Approval from the local police

Explanation

Flying at night falls outside the standard operating conditions, so the operator needs CASA approval before conducting such flights. Aircraft lighting alone does not authorise night operations.

Question 13Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

Which of these operations always requires approval from CASA?

  1. Flying over private land with the owner's permission
  2. Flying at 100 m above ground level
  3. Flying within 30 m of a building
  4. Flying beyond visual line of sight Correct answer.

Explanation

Remaining within visual line of sight is a standard operating condition, so any flight beyond it needs CASA approval. The other three situations fall within the standard operating conditions.

Question 14Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

An RPA is sharing airspace with other aircraft. To which aircraft must the RPA give way?

  1. Only aircraft that are in radio contact with the pilot
  2. Only aircraft larger than the RPA
  3. Manned aircraft Correct answer.
  4. None, because all aircraft have equal right of way

Explanation

An RPA must give way to all manned aircraft, because the manned crew may not see the RPA and cannot manoeuvre as freely. Right of way rules never give an RPA priority over an aircraft carrying people.

Question 15Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

When may a person who does not hold a remote pilot licence operate an RPA for an ReOC holder?

  1. When directly supervised by a remote pilot holding the relevant RePL Correct answer.
  2. When the RPA weighs less than 2 kg
  3. When they have completed CASA's online drone quiz
  4. When the flight stays below 30 m above ground level in an unpopulated area

Explanation

An unlicensed person may operate an RPA only under the direct supervision of a remote pilot who holds the appropriate RePL, so the supervisor can take control if needed. The weight or height of the flight does not change that requirement.

Question 16Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

A remote pilot holds a multirotor RePL within one weight category. Which flight is authorised by that licence?

  1. Flying a fixed-wing RPA of the same weight
  2. Flying a multirotor within the endorsed weight category Correct answer.
  3. Flying any RPA weighing less than 2 kg
  4. Flying a helicopter RPA provided an observer is present on the ground

Explanation

An RePL is issued for particular RPA types and weight categories and authorises flight only within those endorsements. Flying a different type or a heavier aircraft requires further training and endorsement.

Question 17Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

A person flies a 900 g RPA purely for recreation within the standard operating conditions. What must they hold?

  1. A remote operator's certificate
  2. No qualification of any kind
  3. A remote pilot licence
  4. An operator accreditation Correct answer.

Explanation

Recreational operators of RPA heavier than 250 g must hold an operator accreditation from CASA and register the aircraft. An RePL and an ReOC relate to commercial and other operations outside the excluded category.

Question 18Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

Which of these is prohibited by the standard operating conditions?

  1. Flying over a populous area Correct answer.
  2. Flying within 30 m of a building
  3. Flying over privately owned land with the owner's permission
  4. Flying over water

Explanation

The standard operating conditions prohibit flying over populous areas such as towns, crowded beaches or public events. Flying over private land with permission, over water, or near buildings is not itself prohibited.

Question 19Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

Who is responsible for making sure a particular RPA flight complies with the regulations?

  1. The remote pilot in command of the flight Correct answer.
  2. The owner of the land beneath the flight
  3. The manufacturer of the RPA
  4. The operator's chief remote pilot only

Explanation

The remote pilot in command is directly responsible for the conduct and safety of the flight, including compliance with the regulations. The operator shares responsibility for the overall system but does not displace the pilot's duty.

Question 20Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

A remote pilot plans a flight in an area marked as restricted airspace on an aeronautical chart. What must the pilot do?

  1. Advise the local council of the flight
  2. Fit the RPA with a transponder
  3. Obtain approval from the controlling authority Correct answer.
  4. Fly below 60 m to stay clear of other airspace users

Explanation

Restricted and prohibited airspace may not be entered by an RPA without the approval of the authority that controls the restriction. Neither reduced height nor a call to a council substitutes for that approval.

Question 21Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

Under CASR Part 101, what distinguishes a model aircraft from an RPA?

  1. Its use solely for sport or recreation Correct answer.
  2. The weight of the aircraft
  3. Whether the aircraft carries a camera
  4. Whether the operator holds a remote operator's certificate

Explanation

A model aircraft is an unmanned aircraft used solely for sport or recreation, whereas an RPA is used for other purposes such as commercial work. The distinction turns on the use of the aircraft rather than its equipment or weight.

Question 22Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

Where must the training for a remote pilot licence be completed?

  1. With Airservices Australia
  2. With a CASA-approved Part 141 or 142 training organisation Correct answer.
  3. With the Australian Transport Safety Bureau
  4. With any experienced remote pilot who is willing to sign off the training

Explanation

RePL training and assessment must be carried out by a training organisation holding CASA approval under Part 141 or Part 142 for the relevant RPA type. Informal training by an experienced pilot does not lead to a licence.

Question 23Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

What must a remote pilot confirm about the RPA's power source before taking off?

  1. The battery was manufactured within the last 12 months
  2. There is enough energy for the flight plus a reserve to land safely Correct answer.
  3. The RPA can hover in place for at least five minutes
  4. The battery shows a full charge at take-off, so no further check is needed

Explanation

The pilot must be satisfied that the RPA carries enough energy to complete the planned flight and still have a reserve to land safely. A full charge at take-off on its own does not guarantee that the reserve will still exist at the end of the flight.

Question 24Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

An operator wants to fly a 10 kg multirotor commercially within the standard operating conditions. Which combination of approvals is required?

  1. An ReOC for the operator only, because the pilot needs no licence
  2. An operator accreditation for the operator only
  3. An RePL for the remote pilot only
  4. An RePL for the remote pilot and an ReOC for the operator Correct answer.

Explanation

Commercial operations with an RPA heavier than 2 kg fall outside the excluded category, so the operator needs an ReOC and the person at the controls needs the relevant RePL. Holding one without the other is not sufficient.

Question 25Air law, regulations and licensing requirements

A remote pilot operates in breach of the conditions of the RePL. What may CASA do?

  1. Take no action unless an accident results
  2. Refer the matter only to the ATSB
  3. Suspend or cancel the licence Correct answer.
  4. Issue a fine but leave the licence in force

Explanation

CASA administers the licensing system and may suspend or cancel a licence where the holder fails to comply with its conditions or the regulations. The ATSB's role is the investigation of accidents and serious incidents, not licence action.

Question 26Drone safety rules and operating limitations

Under standard operating conditions, what is the maximum height above ground level at which a drone may be flown?

  1. 120 m Correct answer.
  2. 400 m
  3. 90 m
  4. 150 m

Explanation

Standard operating conditions limit a drone to 120 m (400 ft) above ground level. Flying any higher requires a specific approval. The limit is measured above the ground directly beneath the aircraft.

Question 27Drone safety rules and operating limitations

To satisfy the visual line of sight requirement, the remote pilot must:

  1. keep the drone in direct unaided sight at all times Correct answer.
  2. have a second person watch the drone from a car
  3. use binoculars when the drone is far away
  4. rely on the drone's camera feed to track its position

Explanation

Visual line of sight means the pilot can see the aircraft itself, unaided apart from normal corrective lenses, and can monitor its flight path and the surrounding airspace. Camera images and optical aids do not satisfy the requirement.

Question 28Drone safety rules and operating limitations

Under standard operating conditions, what is the closest a drone may be flown to a person who is not involved in the operation?

  1. 30 m Correct answer.
  2. 50 m
  3. 10 m
  4. 20 m

Explanation

The standard operating conditions require the drone to be kept at least 30 m horizontally from people who are not part of the operation. The distance is measured horizontally, so flying directly overhead does not comply.

Question 29Drone safety rules and operating limitations

You want to film a crowded surf beach with a 1.5 kg drone from a height of 80 m. Which statement is correct?

  1. It is permitted if the drone has a camera and GPS
  2. It is permitted if the flight lasts less than 30 minutes
  3. It is not permitted, because the area is populous Correct answer.
  4. It is permitted because the drone stays above head height

Explanation

Standard operating conditions prohibit flying over populous areas such as crowded beaches, regardless of the height flown. A crowd cannot be relied on to move clear if the aircraft fails, so the risk to people below is unacceptable.

Question 30Drone safety rules and operating limitations

Under standard operating conditions, a drone must not be flown within what distance of a controlled aerodrome?

  1. 1 km
  2. 10 km
  3. 5.5 km Correct answer.
  4. 3 km

Explanation

Drones must remain at least 5.5 km from a controlled aerodrome unless an approval or clearance has been obtained. This distance keeps the aircraft clear of traffic in the aerodrome's vicinity.

Question 31Drone safety rules and operating limitations

A manned helicopter is approaching the area where you are flying. Under the right-of-way rules you must:

  1. maintain your height and turn on your landing lights
  2. continue flying, because the helicopter can see and avoid you
  3. climb above the helicopter to avoid a collision
  4. give way and keep clear of the helicopter's flight path Correct answer.

Explanation

Drones must always give way to manned aircraft, whose crews may not be able to see a small remotely piloted aircraft. The remote pilot must manoeuvre, descend or land as necessary to stay well clear.

Question 32Drone safety rules and operating limitations

Under standard operating conditions, when may a drone be flown?

  1. At any time, provided the pilot uses a torch
  2. At any time, provided navigation lights are fitted
  3. Only at night, when the airspace is quieter
  4. During daylight hours only Correct answer.

Explanation

The standard operating conditions restrict flights to daylight, between sunrise and sunset. Operations outside those hours require additional approvals and equipment beyond the standard conditions.

Question 33Drone safety rules and operating limitations

You plan to fly near a military base that is marked as a prohibited area on the aeronautical chart. What must you do?

  1. Obtain approval from the responsible authority before flying Correct answer.
  2. Fly only if you keep the drone within 100 m of yourself
  3. Notify the local council, then fly as planned
  4. Fly below 120 m, because the height limit overrides the restriction

Explanation

Prohibited and restricted areas exist for security or safety reasons, and a drone may not be flown in them without the approval of the controlling authority. The height limit and visual line of sight do not override an airspace restriction.

Question 34Drone safety rules and operating limitations

Standard operating conditions prohibit dropping or releasing an article from a drone unless:

  1. the drone is above 60 m at the time
  2. the drop area is clear of buildings
  3. the article weighs less than 1 kg
  4. it will not cause harm to people or property Correct answer.

Explanation

Nothing may be dropped or released from a drone if doing so could harm people or property. There is no weight or height allowance; the test is whether harm is possible.

Question 35Drone safety rules and operating limitations

Which drone must be registered with CASA before it is flown?

  1. Only drones weighing more than 25 kg
  2. A drone weighing more than 250 g Correct answer.
  3. Only drones used for commercial work
  4. Any drone flown outdoors

Explanation

Registration is required for drones weighing more than 250 g, whether they are flown recreationally or for work. Drones at or below that weight do not need registration.

Question 36Drone safety rules and operating limitations

A remote pilot licence covers the operation of drones up to what maximum weight?

  1. 25 kg Correct answer.
  2. 7 kg
  3. 2 kg
  4. 150 kg

Explanation

A remote pilot licence covers remotely piloted aircraft up to 25 kg. Heavier aircraft fall outside the standard licence and need additional certification and approvals.

Question 37Drone safety rules and operating limitations

You want to fly at a non-controlled aerodrome where light aircraft are landing. Which statement is correct?

  1. You may use the runway if no aircraft are visible
  2. No separation is needed as long as you stay under 120 m
  3. You may fly anywhere on the aerodrome if you keep within sight
  4. You must keep clear of the movement area and not interfere with aircraft Correct answer.

Explanation

At a non-controlled aerodrome a drone must stay clear of the movement area, including runways and taxiways, and must not be operated in any way that could interfere with aircraft. Because there is no fixed radius as at a controlled aerodrome, the pilot must judge the risk.

Question 38Drone safety rules and operating limitations

Under standard operating conditions, which weather condition prevents flight?

  1. An overcast sky with good visibility
  2. Fog or low cloud that hides the drone and airspace Correct answer.
  3. A light breeze with occasional gusts
  4. Warm weather with a high UV index

Explanation

The pilot must be able to see the aircraft and the surrounding airspace at all times, so fog or low cloud that obscures them prevents a compliant flight. An overcast sky alone is not a barrier when visibility is good.

Question 39Drone safety rules and operating limitations

Which statement about alcohol and drugs is correct for a remote pilot?

  1. Alcohol is only a concern for flights above 120 m
  2. Only illegal drugs are prohibited, so prescribed medicine is always acceptable
  3. A remote pilot must not fly while affected by alcohol or drugs Correct answer.
  4. A remote pilot may fly after one standard drink

Explanation

A person must not act as a remote pilot while under the influence of alcohol or of any drug that impairs their ability to control the aircraft safely. This includes prescription medication that causes drowsiness.

Question 40Drone safety rules and operating limitations

A bushfire is burning nearby and firefighting aircraft are operating. What may you do with your drone?

  1. Fly only if the drone is registered and you hold a licence
  2. Not fly in the area unless the fire agency approves Correct answer.
  3. Fly only if you keep the drone 1 km from the fire
  4. Fly at 100 m to film the fire from a safe distance

Explanation

Drones must not be flown in or near an area where emergency operations are under way, because their presence can force firefighting aircraft to be grounded. Only the agency managing the incident can authorise a flight in that area.

Question 41Drone safety rules and operating limitations

You want to fly using FPV goggles so that you cannot see the drone directly. To comply with the standard operating conditions you need:

  1. a flight plan lodged with CASA
  2. a second battery pack for the goggles
  3. a drone that weighs less than 900 g
  4. another person who keeps it in sight and can warn you Correct answer.

Explanation

First-person-view flight is only permitted where a competent observer maintains direct visual contact with the drone and communicates with the pilot. The pilot must still give way to other aircraft and observe every other limit.

Question 42Drone safety rules and operating limitations

Your client insists that you fly closer than 30 m to spectators to get a better shot. As remote pilot in command you should:

  1. comply if you reduce the height to 10 m
  2. comply if the spectators sign a waiver
  3. comply, because the client is paying for the flight
  4. refuse, because the pilot in command is responsible for safety Correct answer.

Explanation

The remote pilot in command is responsible for the safe conduct of the flight and cannot transfer that responsibility to a client. Commercial or contractual pressure never justifies breaching an operating limitation.

Question 43Drone safety rules and operating limitations

Which of these is a required part of preparation before flying in an unfamiliar area?

  1. Telling nearby residents that a flight will occur
  2. Confirming that the drone's battery is fully charged
  3. Checking airspace restrictions and the weather forecast Correct answer.
  4. Switching on the transmitter and taking off immediately

Explanation

Pre-flight preparation includes checking for controlled airspace, prohibited areas and the current weather before launch. A battery check is also prudent, but it does not deal with the airspace and weather hazards that planning must address.

Question 44Drone safety rules and operating limitations

To fly a drone in controlled airspace, you generally need:

  1. nothing further, provided the drone stays in sight
  2. a drone that weighs under 2 kg
  3. a clearance or approval from the airspace authority Correct answer.
  4. to stay below 60 m at all times

Explanation

Controlled airspace is managed by the air navigation service provider or the Department of Defence, and a drone may only enter it with a clearance or approval. Holding a remote pilot licence does not by itself grant access.

Question 45Drone safety rules and operating limitations

You launch from a hilltop that is 500 m above sea level. Your drone's altimeter reads 650 m above sea level. What height above ground are you flying?

  1. 500 m, which exceeds the limit
  2. 150 m, which exceeds the limit Correct answer.
  3. 650 m, which exceeds the limit
  4. 120 m, which is at the limit

Explanation

The height limit is measured above ground level, not above sea level. Subtracting the 500 m launch elevation from the 650 m indicated altitude gives 150 m above ground, which is above the 120 m limit.

Question 46Drone safety rules and operating limitations

Which statement about who may act as pilot of a drone is correct?

  1. The pilot must hold the licence or accreditation that applies Correct answer.
  2. An unlicensed person may fly if the owner is present
  3. A licence is only needed above 25 kg
  4. Anyone may fly any drone if the flight is under 120 m

Explanation

An operation must be conducted by a person holding the remote pilot licence, or the recreational accreditation, that applies to that aircraft and type of operation. The pilot's qualifications must match what is being flown and how.

Question 47Drone safety rules and operating limitations

Before each flight, the remote pilot should confirm that the drone:

  1. is serviceable and has enough power for the planned flight Correct answer.
  2. is carrying the maximum payload it can lift
  3. has flown at least once in the previous week
  4. has been cleaned and the propellers polished

Explanation

The pilot is responsible for ensuring the aircraft is serviceable and that it carries sufficient energy for the planned flight and a safe landing. Undetected faults or inadequate power can lead to a loss of control.

Question 48Drone safety rules and operating limitations

Before launching, the remote pilot must ensure that the take-off and landing area is:

  1. marked with cones and signage
  2. recorded in the flight log
  3. clear of people and obstructions Correct answer.
  4. at least 50 m from any road

Explanation

The launch and recovery area must be free of bystanders and obstacles so the aircraft can take off and land without risk to anyone. There is no prescribed requirement for cones or for a fixed distance from roads.

Question 49Drone safety rules and operating limitations

Which of these flights would comply with the standard operating conditions?

  1. Flying at 130 m above ground while inspecting a roof
  2. Flying 4 km from a controlled aerodrome without approval
  3. Flying at night with the drone's lights switched on
  4. Flying at 100 m, 40 m clear of bystanders, in daylight Correct answer.

Explanation

This flight stays below 120 m, keeps more than 30 m from people, takes place in daylight and remains within visual line of sight, so all standard conditions are met. Each of the other options breaches one of the conditions.

Question 50Drone safety rules and operating limitations

You need to fly at 150 m above ground to inspect a tall structure. What is required?

  1. A larger drone with a higher performance envelope
  2. Nothing extra, provided you stay 30 m from the structure
  3. An observer positioned at the top of the structure
  4. An approval, because the flight exceeds the 120 m limit Correct answer.

Explanation

The 120 m limit applies unless CASA has granted an approval for the operation. Flying higher without that approval breaches the standard operating conditions, whatever the purpose of the flight.