Starting your flight training is an exciting milestone; one that opens the door to a lifelong passion and potentially a professional aviation career. But before you take to the skies, there are several important steps every future pilot in Australia must complete.
These steps ensure that you’re properly identified, medically fit, and authorised to access secure aviation areas. Completing them early will make your training journey smoother and help you avoid unnecessary delays once you begin lessons.
This article explains exactly what to do before starting flight training in Australia, including:
- Creating your MyCASA account and getting your Aviation Reference Number (ARN)
- Completing your aviation medical
- Applying for your Aviation Security Identification Card (ASIC)
- Preparing your photo and English proficiency documents
Step 1: Create a MyCASA Account and Apply for Your Aviation Reference Number (ARN)
What is MyCASA?
MyCASA is the Civil Aviation Safety Authority’s online self-service portal where you’ll manage all your aviation-related records including your Aviation Reference Number (ARN), medical certificates, and licence information.
Creating your MyCASA account is simple. Visit the CASA website and follow the prompts to register. You’ll need to verify your identity using your driver’s licence, passport, or another approved ID.
What is an ARN?
Your Aviation Reference Number (ARN) is your unique identifier within CASA’s system. Think of it as your aviation ID which will stay with you throughout your flying adventure and eventually become your pilot licence number.
You can apply for your ARN directly through your MyCASA dashboard. Once approved, you’ll receive it by email. Keep this number safe as you’ll need it for every application, form, medical record etc. moving forward (best to commit it to memory as you’ll need it for just about everything).
Why It Matters
You must have an ARN before CASA can issue a medical certificate or pilot licence. It’s the foundation for your pilot profile and links every approval, rating, and qualification to your name and that is why this is easily Step 1.
Step 2: Complete the Pre-Medical Questionnaire via CASA’s Medical Records System (MRS)
After your MyCASA account and ARN are set up, the next step is to begin your aviation medical process.
What Is the CASA Medical Records System (MRS)?
The Medical Records System (MRS) is an online tool connected to your MyCASA account where you’ll complete your pre-medical questionnaire.
This questionnaire asks about your medical history, medications, surgeries, or conditions that could affect your ability to safely operate an aircraft.
Access it through your MyCASA account under “Aviation Medicals” and be sure to provide accurate information. Transparency is crucial as inaccurate details can delay your medical clearance and dishonesty is likely to cause you trouble later on.
Step 3: Book an Appointment with a Designated Aviation Medical Examiner (DAME)
What Is a DAME?
A Designated Aviation Medical Examiner (DAME) is a doctor authorised by CASA to conduct aviation medicals. These doctors are trained to assess whether you meet the health standards required for flying.
After you’ve completed your MRS questionnaire, you can book a medical appointment with a DAME. CASA provides a searchable DAME register on their website so you can find one in your area.
What Class of Medical Do You Need?
This will depend on what you want to do with your flying, but the most common options are:
- Class 2 Medical Certificate: Suitable for recreational or private pilot training and for operating under those licences (RPL and PPL).
- Class 1 Medical Certificate: Required for commercial operations. If you’re considering a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) in the future, apply for a Class 1 from the beginning to ensure that nothing will stand in the way of your ultimate goal.
There are other options when it comes to CASA medical certificates which you can look into further via the CASA website.
Why It Matters
A valid aviation medical is required before you can fly solo, so this big milestone is the ultimate deadline. Getting it sorted early ensures your training can continue smoothly once you reach that milestone while also rulling out any medical issues that could prevent you from holding a licence down the line.
Step 4: Apply for an Aviation Security Identification Card (ASIC)
What Is an ASIC?
An Aviation Security Identification Card (ASIC) is an official ID that proves you’ve passed a government background check and are authorised to access secure airport areas. This card is required for all pilots, engineers, and aviation professionals who need unescorted access to airside security restricted areas.
Why Student Pilots Need One
While your first lessons may not require it, you’ll need your ASIC before:
- Any solo navigation flight,
- Your licence flight test, or
- Any time you need airside access without supervision.
How to Apply
You can apply for your RED ASIC through authorised issuers such as:
You’ll complete an online form, submit identification documents, upload a passport-style photo, and undergo a background check through AusCheck. Your flying school will also need to confirm your “Operational Need” for a Red ASIC which they will either via the online application or by providing you with a letter (make sure your school has your full name as noted on your identification documents if they are providing a letter).
Once approved, your ASIC will be mailed or made available for collection.
Step 5: Prepare for Your First Licence Requirements (later in your training)
The above steps can all be completed before or very early in your flight training journey. You should be guided through these next two items by your flying school, but it is worth keeping them in mind so nothing slips through the cracks as your first flight test approches.
A) Submit A Current Photo (Passport-Style)
CASA requires a current passport-style photo before issuing any licence. You’ll submit this photo using CASA Form 61-9PIC, usually with help from your training organisation. Ensure the photo meets standard passport requirements (plain background, neutral expression, recent image).
B) Complete an Aviation English Language Proficiency (AELP) Assessment
All pilots must demonstrate an acceptable level of English language proficiency. This ensures you can communicate clearly with air traffic control and other pilots.
The AELP assessment is a short spoken test that measures your listening, speaking, and comprehension using aviation scenarios. Your flight school will help schedule the test with an approved assessor.
If English is your first language, you’ll usually achieve a Level 6 rating (the highest level) without difficulty.
Final Thoughts: Your Journey Starts Here
Becoming a pilot is one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences you can undertake. While the initial paperwork may seem complex, each step exists to ensure safety, professionalism, and compliance with aviation standards and the process becomes routine before too long.
By organising your ARN, medical, and ASIC early, you’ll be free to focus on what really matters, LEARNING TO FLY!
Once these requirements are in place, you’re ready to take the next step: joining a reputable flight school and beginning your training. From laying this initial foundation to your first licence, every step will move you closer to achieving your aviation goals.