Before you renew: the GVC is being phased out
The CAA will stop issuing new GVCs on 31 December 2027, and the RPC-L1 is replacing it as the baseline qualification for Specific Category VLOS operations. Existing GVCs stay valid until they expire.
Depending on when your certificate expires, converting may make more sense than renewing. We run a GVC to RPC-L1 conversion course that lets you transition without sitting the RPC-L1 theory exam. Give us a call before you commit either way and we will talk you through which is the better option for your timing.
Your GVC can be renewed with any Recognised Assessment Entity (RAE), including Coptrz.
Step 1: Check Your Certificate Status
If your GVC has already expired
You cannot renew. You must complete and pay for a full GVC course. A renewal can only be carried out if the course was booked while your certificate was still valid.If your GVC will expire within 6 months
You are eligible to begin the renewal process. Renewal exams cannot be taken earlier than six months before your expiry date.If your GVC does not expire within 6 months
You are not yet eligible to renew.
Step 2: Theory Exam
You must pass a GVC theory exam before renewal can proceed.
If you pass
You can move to Step 3.If you fail
You must complete a GVC theory course, including all required refresher modules, before retaking the exam. Retakes are set with an alternative question paper.Exam attempts
You may attempt the theory exam up to 5 times.If you fail 5 times
You will need to purchase and complete a full GVC course, including both theory and practical elements.
Step 3: Documentation Review
We will review the following documents:
Flight Logs – You must show evidence of at least 2 hours of flying in the last 90 days. If you hold both Multirotor and Fixed Wing GVC certificates, you must show 2 hours for each type (minimum 4 hours total). Flight logs can show flights in either the Open or Specific category but must be verifiable.
Valid Flyer ID – Must be current at the time of application, and must match the name you are taking the GVC under.
Proof of Identity – Such as a driving licence or passport.
Current GVC Certificate – This must be valid at the time of booking. If your certificate shows an old Flyer ID, you will need to provide both your current Flyer ID and proof of the old one (for example, your original CAA registration email).
We recommend using the Coptrz flight log template. The CAA need to see the following as a minimum:
Date
Operator name
Operator ID
Remote Pilot name
Flyer ID
Operating category
Operating location
Start time
End time
UAS type
UAS make and model
UAS serial number
UAS take-off mass
Flight time for this flight
Cumulative flight time
If you operate under a PDRA01 Operational Authorisation, please also include your authorisation number.
Step 4: Issue of New Certificate
If all documents are correct and valid
You will be issued a renewed GVC certificate, valid for 5 years from the expiry date of your current one.If documents are missing or insufficient
You must pass a practical flight assessment before renewal.If you pass the assessment
You will be issued a renewed GVC certificate valid for 5 years from your current expiry date.If you fail the assessment
You may attempt it up to 3 times.If you fail 3 times
You will need to purchase and complete a full GVC course, including theory and flight assessments.