RTR License – Exam, Fees, Eligibility India

The Radio Telephony Restricted (RTR License) is one of the most important certifications for anyone who dreams of becoming a professional pilot. Even if a student completes their flying training and obtains a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), they cannot work as a pilot unless they also hold the RTR (Aero) License.

This license gives the legal authority to operate aircraft radio equipment and communicate with Air Traffic Control (ATC) and other aircraft during flights. It ensures that a pilot is trained in using the correct communication language, follows international aviation rules, and can handle emergency situations effectively.

In India, the RTR (Aeronautical) is issued by the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) Wing of the Ministry of Communications, Government of India, in coordination with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

For a student pilot, the RTR (Aero) is not just another requirement—it is a career milestone that makes the difference between being a trainee and becoming a professional airline pilot.

Why is an RTR License Important?

Aviation is a highly regulated industry where communication plays a central role. Even a small mistake in radio communication can lead to serious consequences. This is why the RTR License is mandatory.

Here are some reasons why it is important:

• Mandatory with CPL/ATPL – Without an RTR, a pilot cannot legally work in India, even if they have completed flying hours and hold a CPL.
• Safe Communication – Pilots need to talk to ATC during take-off, landing, and cruising to ensure safety and avoid collisions. RTR ensures proper communication skills.
• Global Relevance – RTR communication follows ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) guidelines, making it valid in many countries.
• Airline Recruitment Requirement – Every airline demands CPL + RTR as the minimum eligibility to apply for pilot jobs.
• Emergency Handling – RTR training prepares pilots to handle emergency communication during distress situations such as engine failure, bad weather, or medical issues onboard.

Types of RTR Licenses in India

The Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) issues different kinds of RTR licenses. Out of these, only RTR (Aero) is relevant for aviation.

1. RTR (Aero) – Aeronautical
   • Required for pilots and aircraft maintenance engineers.
   • Authorizes the use of aviation radio equipment.
   • Mandatory for CPL/ATPL holders.
2. RTR (Marine)
   • Used for shipping and marine communication.
   • Not applicable for pilots.

For students aiming to become professional pilots, RTR (Aero) is the license they must obtain.

Eligibility for RTR (Aero)

To apply for the RTR (Aero) exam in India, the candidate must meet the following requirements:

• Minimum 18 years of age.
• Good knowledge of aviation communication and procedures.
• Proficiency in English, since all aviation communication is conducted in English.
• Should be pursuing or holding a CPL/ATPL (Student pilots in training can also appear).
• Must be medically fit as per DGCA norms.

RTR Examination Process

The RTR (Aero) examination is conducted jointly by the WPC Wing and DGCA. It is held six times a year in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Hyderabad.

The exam consists of two parts:

Part I – Communication Test

• A practical test of aviation radio communication.
• Includes phraseology used with ATC.
• Tests emergency and distress communication procedures.
• Candidates are judged on clarity, accuracy, and proper use of standard aviation terms.

Part II – Viva/Oral Test

• A face-to-face interview with examiners from DGCA & WPC.
• Questions related to aviation communication rules, ICAO regulations, and radio equipment functioning.
• Includes knowledge of the Indian Telegraph Act, frequency usage, and aircraft radio systems.

A candidate must clear both parts in the same attempt to qualify. If one part is cleared and the other is not, the candidate has to reappear for the exam.

RTR License Fees in India

Compared to pilot training fees, the cost of obtaining an RTR license is very affordable.

• Application & Exam Fee: Around INR 500 – INR 1,000 per attempt (paid to WPC).
• Training / Coaching Fee (Optional): Many flying schools and academies provide RTR preparation classes. These can range from INR 25,000 to INR 50,000, depending on the institute and duration of the course.

The government fee is minimal, but most students choose to join RTR coaching programs to increase their chances of clearing the exam in fewer attempts.

Validity of RTR License

One of the best things about the RTR (Aero) License is that it is valid for a lifetime. Unlike a pilot license, which requires renewals and revalidations, the RTR does not expire once issued.

This means:

• No renewal hassle.
• Once obtained, it remains valid for your entire aviation career.

Attempts & Difficulty Level

Many students wonder whether the RTR exam is difficult. The answer is: it requires focused preparation.

• The exam is highly competitive, and only candidates with good communication and technical knowledge clear it.
• The exam is conducted 6 times a year, so students get multiple chances.
• With proper guidance and practice, most CPL students clear RTR within 2-3 attempts.

Career Opportunities with RTR License

Once a student clears the RTR (Aero) and combines it with a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), the career opportunities expand rapidly:

• Airline Pilot Jobs – Required for flying in domestic and international airlines.
• Charter & Cargo Companies – Flying private charter jets, corporate aircraft, or cargo planes.
• Flight Instructor Jobs – RTR is required for those who train future pilots.
• International Flying Jobs – Since RTR follows ICAO standards, it is recognized in many countries.

Simply put, CPL + RTR = Eligibility to work as a professional pilot.

How to Prepare for RTR Exam?

Here are some tips for students preparing for RTR (Aero):

• Practice ATC Communication – Learn standard phraseology and practice speaking clearly.
• Study ICAO and DGCA Regulations – Be familiar with rules, procedures, and radio laws.
• Mock Tests & Orals – Take practice exams to improve confidence for Part I & Part II.
• Join Coaching/Institute – Many flying schools offer special RTR preparation classes.

The Radio Telephony Restricted (RTR) License is a vital step for every pilot in India. While flying skills get you the CPL, communication skills certified by RTR make you eligible to work as a professional pilot. It ensures that pilots can safely interact with ATC, follow international communication standards, and handle emergencies effectively.

For any student dreaming of an airline career, the RTR (Aero) exam is not just a requirement but a gateway to the cockpit of commercial airlines.