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Converting Your Overseas Pilot Licence:
A Six-Part CASA Guide
Part 4 – What Exams Need to Be Completed
CASA Wants You to Know It Their Way
You might have thousands of hours in your logbook, but when it comes to licensing in Australia, CASA wants to verify your theoretical knowledge through its own system. That means sitting exams, even if you already hold a CPL or ATPL from another country.
This step isn’t just a formality—it’s essential, and it must be done in Australia.
What You’ll Learn in This Step:
- 📘 Which CASA theory exams you must pass based on your licence
- ❌ Why overseas theory credits don’t count
- 📍 Where to sit your exams and how to register
PPL: Private Pilot Licence
Good news—most ICAO PPL holders don’t need to sit additional CASA theory exams.
🟢 Exceptions may apply if:
- Your licence is from a non-ICAO state
- You’re converting to a higher licence (e.g. CPL later on)
CPL: Commercial Pilot Licence
To convert your CPL, CASA requires two mandatory exams:
- CHUF – CPL Human Factors
- COSA / COSH – CPL (Aeroplane or Helicopter) Operational Knowledge Exam
These are non-negotiable and must be passed in CASA-authorised exam centres in Australia.
ATPL: Airline Transport Pilot Licence
For an ATPL conversion, you’ll need to complete:
- AHUF – ATPL Human Factors
- AOSA / AOSH – ATPL Operations (Aeroplane or Helicopter)
- IREX – Instrument Rating Exam (if not already held)
🛑 These exams are rigorous and technical and should be approached with structured preparation, even for experienced pilots.
Why Overseas Theory Credits Don’t Count
CASA does not recognise foreign theory exam credits, even from ICAO countries.
Their rationale? Regulatory, procedural, and operational differences across jurisdictions. So every candidate must pass Australian-specific exams, even if their practical experience is extensive.
How to Sit CASA Exams
✅ All theory exams must be taken in Australia.
✅ Exams are computer-based and booked via CASA’s Authorised Testing Centres.
Note: Each exam comes with a fee and limited sitting windows, so plan accordingly.
Book your required exams through CASA’s authorised providers now.
Not sure which exams apply to you? Contact a CASA-recognised flight school like Avia Aviation for a one-on-one theory review and custom conversion plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I skip exams if I already have a CPL overseas?
No. CASA requires CHUF and COSA/COSH even if you’re already a commercial pilot elsewhere.
How many attempts do I get?
You’re limited to 4 attempts per exam. Failing all 4 means you must seek approval from CASA to continue. That’s why preparation is essential.
Are the exams multiple choice?
Yes, most CASA exams are multiple choice or fill-in-the-box format, completed on a computer at an approved testing centre.
What’s the pass mark?
You need a minimum of 70% or 80%, depending on the CASA theory exam.
Can I take the exams online from overseas?
No. All CASA theory exams must be completed within Australia at authorised centres.
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