Get Your New Zealand Pilot License
Complete CAA NZ guide for PPL(A) — Part 61: cost, hours, theory exams, medical, and how to convert from foreign licenses. Updated for 2026 regulations.
Cost & key data
| PPL(A) — Part 61 cost | NZD $20,000 – $28,000 |
| Minimum flight hours | 50 h |
| Theory study (typical) | 40 h |
| Medical class | Class 2 Medical (NZ CAA AME) |
| Knowledge test | PPL(A) Aeronautical Knowledge Examinations (ASL exams) |
| Minimum age | 17 years |
| License validity | Lifetime; biennial flight review |
| Working language(s) | English |
| Drone authorisation | CAA NZ Part 102 Operator + remote pilot competency (Part 101 (basic) and Part 102 (operator certification)) |
| Average training time | 8 months full-time |
Step-by-step path to your CAA NZ license
Average completion: 8 months full-time.
- Step 1Pass the medical
Obtain a Class 2 Medical (NZ CAA AME). The medical certificate must be current before you can fly solo.
- Step 2Theory study & ground school
Complete approximately 40 hours of ground theory covering air law, navigation, meteorology, principles of flight, communications, and human factors.
- Step 3Fly the required 50 hours
Log a minimum of 50 flight hours with a certified instructor at an CAA NZ-approved flight school. Includes solo cross-country flights.
- Step 4Pass the knowledge test
PPL(A) Aeronautical Knowledge Examinations (ASL exams) — 6 written exams (Law, Met, Nav, FRTO, Tech, Human Factors), 70% per paper.
- Step 5Pass the skill test (checkride)
Complete an end-of-course practical exam with an CAA NZ examiner. Once passed, your PPL(A) — Part 61 is issued.
License classes issued by CAA NZ
- PPL(A) — Part 61
- CPL(A)
- ATPL(A)
- Microlight / Recreational
- Drone: Part 101 (rule-based), Part 102 (certified operator)
New Zealand drone license under CAA NZ
Drone authority
Part 101 (basic) and Part 102 (operator certification)
Test format
Part 101: no licence required for sub-25kg drones in compliance with the rule. Part 102: certified operator path for higher-risk ops, requires Operations Manual + competency demo.
Maximum altitude
400 ft AGL
Renewal cycle: every 0 years. See the worldwide drone pilot hub for country-by-country comparisons.
How CAA NZ compares to FAA & EASA
Compare with other worldwide authorities
CAA NZ pilot license — frequently asked questions
Why is NZ a popular place to train as a pilot?
Wide-open VFR airspace, English-speaking, ICAO-compliant, and good weather windows. NZ flight schools attract students from Asia and the Pacific Rim.
Do I need a drone licence in New Zealand?
Not for hobby flights under Part 101 (sub-25kg, VLOS, daylight). For commercial work, BVLOS, urban areas, or non-standard ops you need Part 102 certification.
How long does a CAA NZ PPL take?
Most students complete in 6–9 months full-time. CPL adds another 12–18 months at most major academies.
Is the NZ PPL ICAO-compliant?
Yes — Part 61 mirrors ICAO Annex 1. Conversion to FAA, EASA, and CASA is a standard process with written exam + skill test.
What is a Part 102 Operator Certificate?
A formal CAA NZ certificate issued to operators who fly outside the standard Part 101 envelope (BVLOS, > 25kg, urban, etc.). Requires a documented Operations Manual reviewed by the CAA.
Ready to start training for your CAA NZ license?
Rotate has the largest worldwide question bank for CAA NZ in English. AI tutor, mock exams, and weak-spot practice included.