Embark on an exhilarating journey to obtain your drone pilot certificate in Canada and unlock the door to endless possibilities in the world of drone flying. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced pilot, this guide will navigate you through the exciting process set by Transport Canada¹.

Becoming a certified drone pilot isn’t just about rules and regulations; it’s about embracing a future where the sky is no longer the limit. Let’s dive into the steps that will elevate you to the ranks of skilled drone aviators.

Categories of Drone Operations#

Transport Canada has crafted two distinct categories to cater to pilots of all levels:²

1. Basic Operations - For those starting their journey
2. Advanced Operations - For those seeking to push the boundaries of the drone-flying experience.

Basic Operations#

Embark on the first leg of your drone-flying adventure with Basic Operations. If you’re ready to spread your wings, these conditions will guide you:

• You fly a drone in uncontrolled airspace
• You fly a drone more than 30 meters (100 feet) horizontally from bystanders
• You never fly a drone over bystanders
• You fly a drone more than 3 nautical miles from a certified airport or a military aerodrome
• You fly a drone more than 1 nautical mile from a certified heliport

Drone Pilot Certificate - Basic#

To obtain your Basic Operations drone pilot certificate and officially join the ranks of drone enthusiasts, follow these steps:

1. Register your drone with Transport Canada before your inaugural flight.
2. Mark your drone with its registration number.
3. Ace the Small Basic Exam (Online).
4. Download your certificate through the Drone Management Portal.

Advanced Operations#

For those seeking an adrenaline rush and pushing the boundaries of drone operations, Advanced Operations is your next destination. Meet any one of these conditions:

• You want to fly a drone in controlled airspace
• You want to fly a drone over bystanders
• You want to fly a drone within 30 meters (100 feet) of bystanders (measured horizontally)
• You want to fly a drone less than 3 nautical miles from a certified airport or a military aerodrome
• You want to fly a drone less than 1 nautical mile from a certified heliport

Drone Pilot Certificate - Advanced#

For the daring aviators aiming for the skies, follow these steps to obtain your Advanced Operations drone pilot certificate:

1. Register your drone with Transport Canada before liftoff.
2. Mark your drone with its registration number.
3. Equip your drone with the appropriate Safety declaration for the intended operation.
4. Conquer the Small Advanced Exam (Online).
5. Successfully pass a flight review.
6. Once the $25 fee is paid, receive your coveted Pilot Certificate – Advanced Operations.
7. Download your certificate through the Drone Management Portal.

Additional Rules - Advanced#

• Seek permission from air traffic control (NAV CANADA or the Department of National Defence) to fly in controlled airspace (request an RPAS Flight Authorization from NAV CANADA).
• Fly within the operational limits of your drone.

With a Pilot Certificate – Advanced Operations, you no longer need a Pilot Certificate – Basic Operations for basic drone operations.

Expiration#

Your pilot certificate is your passport to the skies, and the adventure doesn’t end. Keep the excitement alive with these recency requirements:

• Re-take and pass either the Small Basic Exam or Small Advanced Exam.
• Successfully pass a flight review.
• Complete any of the following training activities:
  • Attend a safety seminar endorsed by Transport Canada Civil Aviation.
  • Complete a drone recurrent training program from a drone flight school.
  • Finish a Transport Canada endorsed self-paced study program.

Exception - For Micro Drones#

Drones weighing less than 250 grams, affectionately known as Microdrones, enjoy an exemption from the pilot certificate requirement. Congratulations! You’re free to explore the skies without bureaucratic hurdles. However, responsibility is key:

“Do not operate your drone recklessly or negligently as to endanger or be likely to endanger aviation safety or the safety of anyone.” - Transport Canada

Good Practices for Micro Drone Pilots#

• Maintain the drone in a direct line of sight.
• Do not exceed 400 feet in altitude.
• Keep a safe distance from bystanders.
• Stay away from aerodromes, airports, heliports, and waterdromes.
• Avoid flying near critical infrastructures.
• Keep clear of aircraft at all times.
• Conduct a pre-flight inspection.
• Maintain a close connection with the remote controller.
• Steer clear of advertised events.

Breaking these rules may result in fines of $1,000 for individuals and $5,000 for corporations.

Conclusion#

Congratulations on completing this guide to obtaining your drone pilot certificate in Canada! Your journey into the skies awaits, and we’re eager to hear about your experiences.

Feel free to share your thoughts, questions, or epic drone-flying stories in the comments below. The adventure doesn’t end here – it’s just beginning!