GVC and Recognised Assessment Entities (RAEs) in the UK

What an RAE is

A Recognised Assessment Entity (RAE) is an organisation that the CAA has recognised to deliver the General VLOS Certificate. Rather than the CAA assessing every individual pilot directly, RAEs carry out the training and assessment to a CAA-defined standard and issue the GVC on that basis. They are the practical gateway through which most UK operators enter the Specific Category.

What an RAE does in the GVC process

An RAE is responsible for the three core elements of the GVC:

• Theory examination - delivering and marking the knowledge assessment covering air law, airspace, meteorology, human factors and operating procedures.
• Practical flight assessment - observing you fly to confirm you can plan, operate and handle emergencies safely within VLOS.
• Operations Manual review - checking that your manual describes how you will operate to an acceptable standard.

Once you have satisfied all three, the RAE issues your GVC and provides the recommendation that supports your application to the CAA for an Operational Authorisation. The RAE does not grant the authorisation itself - that remains the CAA's role - but its recommendation is central to the process.

Choosing an RAE

There are a number of RAEs operating across the UK, offering courses in different formats. When comparing them, it is reasonable to consider:

• Course format - fully in person, blended, or with online theory and an in-person practical.
• What is included - whether the price covers the assessment, support with your Operations Manual, and resits.
• Support afterwards - help with the CAA authorisation application and ongoing guidance.
• Location and timing - convenient practical assessment sites and available dates.
• Cost - fees vary between providers (as of May 2026), so compare like with like.

It is sensible to check that any provider you consider is currently recognised by the CAA before booking. The CAA maintains the authoritative position on which entities are recognised.

A note on impartiality

Different RAEs suit different learners, and the right choice depends on your circumstances, budget and learning style. We do not endorse any particular provider. The most reliable approach is to compare several recognised entities against the criteria above and choose the one that fits your needs.

After the RAE issues your GVC

Receiving your GVC from an RAE is a milestone, not the finish line. The certificate is a prerequisite that you then use to apply to the CAA for an Operational Authorisation. Only when the CAA grants that authorisation are you cleared to conduct the Specific Category operations it covers. Keep your GVC and authorisation details on file, and remember that standard GVC operations are conducted within Visual Line of Sight.