Last edited on April 1st 2023
Introduction
If you're interested in flying a drone in Canada, you'll need to obtain a drone license from Transport Canada. There are two types of drone licenses: Basic and Advanced. A Basic license allows for basic operations and requires passing an online basic written exam. An Advanced license allows for both basic and advanced operations and requires passing an online advanced written exam as well as an in-person flight review.
Transport Canada strongly recommends attending a drone flight school before attempting either exam.
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But can you take the drone test online?
Yes, you can take the drone test online! Both the Basic and Advanced drone tests are available online through Transport Canada's Drone Management Portal. In this blog post, we'll provide an overview of the process of taking the drone test online and share some tips for success.
Overview: Basic vs Advanced Drone Licenses
Before we dive into the details of taking the drone test online, let's first review the differences between Basic and Advanced licenses. A Basic license allows for basic operations, such as flying your drone in uncontrolled airspace more than 30 meters (100 feet) horizontally from bystanders. To obtain a Basic license, you must pass an online basic written exam.
An Advanced license allows for both basic and advanced operations. This includes flying your drone in controlled airspace (with permission) and uncontrolled airspace, flying within 30 meters (100 feet) of bystanders, and flying over bystanders. To obtain an Advanced license, you must pass an online advanced written exam as well as an in-person flight review.
Drone Test Requirements
All pilots of drones with a maximum takeoff weight of 250 g and above must pass an online exam. To take the online drone test, you must first meet the eligibility requirements. You must be at least 14 years of age to take the Small Basic Exam and at least 16 years of age to take the Small Advanced Exam. Once you meet these requirements, you can register for the exam through Transport Canada's Drone Management Portal.
How to register and take the drone test online
- Visit Transport Canada's Drone Management Portal.
- Create an account or log in if you already have one.
- Select “Take an exam” from the main menu.
- Choose either “Small Basic Exam” or “Small Advanced Exam” depending on which license you want to obtain.
- Follow the prompts to register for the exam and pay the fee.
- Once registered, you can start the exam at any time.
The Small Basic Exam consists of 35 multiple choice questions and has a time limit of 90 minutes. You must score at least 65% to pass. The Small Advanced Exam also consists of multiple choice questions but has a higher passing score requirement.
The benefits of taking the drone test online
Taking the drone test online has several benefits. It is convenient and allows you to take the test from any location with an internet connection. This means that you don't have to travel to a testing center or schedule an appointment.
Taking the drone test online also provides immediate feedback on your performance. As soon as you complete the test, you will receive your results. This allows you to quickly identify areas where you need to improve and focus your study efforts.
Another benefit of taking the drone test online is that it is more cost-effective than taking it in person. The fee for taking either the Small Basic or Small Advanced Exam is $10, which is significantly less than what many testing centers charge.
Tips for success on the online drone test
Transport Canada strongly recommends attending a drone flight school before attempting either the Small Basic or Small Advanced Exam. Online exam questions are based on the Knowledge Requirements for Pilots of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems, so it is important to review this document before taking either test.
In addition to attending a flight school, there are several other things you can do to increase your chances of success on either exam:
- Review all relevant study materials: In addition to reviewing Transport Canada's Knowledge Requirements document, be sure to review any other study materials recommended by your flight school or provided by Transport Canada.
- Take practice exams: Many flight schools offer practice exams that can help you prepare for either test.
- Get plenty of rest: Make sure to get plenty of rest before taking either exam so that you are alert and focused.
- Read each question carefully: Take your time when reading each question on either exam to ensure that you understand what is being asked.
- Don't rush: Remember that you have plenty of time to complete either exam and don't feel rushed.
By following these tips and preparing adequately, you can increase your chances of success on the online drone test.
Conclusion
Taking the drone test online is a convenient and cost-effective way to obtain either a Basic or Advanced drone license in Canada. By registering for the exam through Transport Canada’s Drone Management Portal and preparing adequately, you can increase your chances of success. And remember, our company offers online drone exam preparation courses that can help you prepare for either exam. Good luck and happy flying!
Pick Your Drone License
Become a certified drone pilot and unlock the skies. Click here to learn more.