Canada has recently been experiencing a rapid increase in the number of people interested in drone piloting.
With drones becoming more accessible, it’s no surprise that many Canadians want to learn how to fly. One question they often ask is “What are the requirements for getting a basic drone license in Canada?” The following blog post will answer this question and provide some tips on what you need to do to get your license.
What Are The Legal Requirements When Flying Drones?
Drone operators must adhere to the rules in the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs). Drones under 25 kilos are covered in Part IX – Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems of the regulations. Before you fly your drone for the first time, you should be aware of these regulations. Drone pilot training explains these regulations in layman’s language.
Only fly drones that are registered and labelled. Pilots must have a valid drone pilot license and may only operate drones bearing identification markings. Transport Canada issues a printed or electronic document known as a drone pilot certificate to anyone who wishes to fly a drone. You may not submit any other sort of certification. If you’re flying a drone weighing less than 250 grams, there’s no need to register it or obtain a pilot’s license.
How To Get A Drone Pilot Certificate?
There are two kinds of pilot certificates: basic and advanced. The sort of license you require is determined by where you intend to fly.
Here are some of the guidelines to remember for basic operations:
- Before you fly your drone for the first time, register it with Transport Canada
- Mark your drone with its registration number.
- Take and pass the Small Basic Exam
- When you fly, it’s essential to show your Pilot Certificate – Basic Operations and registration proof
Basic Operations
If you fulfill all five of these criteria, you’re performing basic activities:
- You fly it in uncontrolled airspace
- You fly it more than 30 meters (100 feet) horizontally from bystanders
- You never fly it over bystanders
- You fly it more than three nautical miles from a certified airport or a military aerodrome
- You fly it more than one nautical mile from an accredited heliport
Getting a Drone Pilot Certificate – Basic Operations
To get a Drone Pilot Certificate for Basic Operations, follow these steps:
- You need to take the Transport Canada online exam.
- If you pass the Small Basic Exam, you will be issued a Pilot Certificate – Basic Operations. You can download and print your certificate through the Drone Management Portal.
- Your pilot certificate does not expire, but you must keep your abilities up to date for them to remain valid.
Advanced Operations
If you satisfy any of the following criteria, you are performing advanced activities:
- You want to fly in controlled airspace
- You want to fly over bystanders
- You want to fly within 30 meters (100 feet) of bystanders (measured horizontally)
- You want to fly less than three nautical miles from a certified airport or a military aerodrome
- You want to fly less than one nautical mile from a certified heliport
For Advanced Operations, here are some of the rules you must follow:
- Before you fly your drone for the first time, register your drone using the online Transport Canada Drone Portal.
- Label your drone with its registration number.
- Use a drone that has the necessary manufacturer safety declaration for the intended operation.
- Take and pass the Small Advanced Exam.
- Pass a flight evaluation with an experienced and certified flight reviewer.
- Be able to show your Pilot Certificate – Advanced Operations and proof of registration when you fly your drone
- Seek permission from NAV CANADA to fly in controlled airspace (request an RPAS Flight Authorization from NAV CANADA using their new mobile application or online).
- Fly within your drone’s flight parameters
Getting A Drone Pilot Certificate – Advanced Operations
For advanced operations, you need to:
- Pass the online exam for advanced operations
- Successfully pass a flight review
- Apply for a Pilot Certificate – Advanced Operations
- Drone pilots who hold a Pilot Certificate – Advanced Operations can conduct both basic and advanced operations.
- Once the $25 fee is paid, you will be issued a Pilot Certificate – Advanced Operations. You can download and print your certificate through the Drone Management Portal.
- Your pilot certificate does not expire, but you need to ensure your skills are up to date. Every two years you can take an online quiz with Transport Canada to show this.
Do You Need Help With The Requirements For A Basic Drone License In Canada?
It’s important to understand the laws and regulations in Canada. The rules are federally regulated so make sure that you are following the appropriate Transport Canada guidelines if you plan on getting a license for basic or advanced use. Check provincial regulations regarding drones before flying in provincial parks.
Victory UAV is dedicated to helping people who need guidance when it comes to drones and other unmanned aerial systems (UAV). Our instructors work in the aviation industry and understand the importance of training and safety. Our courses are designed to make learning fun and easy. By the end of the course, you’ll learn all of Transport Canada’s requirements for piloting your drone. Contact us today at 780-513-6233, or you can send an email to support@victoryuav.ca. Our staff members are standing by to help you out.
