Where Do I
Take The
Drone Exam?

Last edited on December 03 2023

Introduction

If you are interested in flying a drone in Canada, you need to know the rules and regulations that apply to your drone operation. Depending on the size and purpose of your drone, you may need to obtain a pilot certificate from Transport Canada. But where do you take the drone exam? You can take the drone exam online on Transport Canada's website. And what are the steps to become a certified drone pilot? In this blog post, we will answer these questions and more.

What are the drone regulations in Canada?

In Canada, drones are also known as Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS). Transport Canada is the federal authority that regulates the use of drones in Canadian airspace. Transport Canada has established two categories of drone operations: basic and advanced. The category you fall into depends on three factors:

• The weight of your drone.
• The distance from bystanders.
• The airspace where you fly.

Micro drones (under 250 grams) do not need to be registered and do not require a license to operate. However, you still need to follow the basic safety rules, such as flying below 122 meters, keeping your drone in sight, and avoiding restricted areas.

Drones that weigh more than 25 kilograms require a Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC) from Transport Canada. You need to apply for an SFOC at least 20 days before your planned flight and provide detailed information about your drone, your operation, and your safety measures.

Drones that weigh between 250 grams and 25 kilograms fall into either the basic or the advanced category. The type of certificate required for your drone operation is not based on whether it is for professional or recreational purposes. It is based on the risk level of your operation.

What are the differences between basic and advanced operations?

Basic operations are those that pose a low risk to public safety and property. To conduct a basic operation, you need to meet the following criteria:

• Fly your drone in uncontrolled airspace.
• Fly your drone more than 30 meters horizontally from bystanders.
• Never fly your drone over bystanders.

Advanced operations are those that pose a higher risk to public safety and property. To conduct an advanced operation, you need to meet the following criteria:

• Fly your drone in controlled airspace or near airports.
• Fly your drone within 30 meters horizontally or over bystanders.
• Have permission from the air traffic control or the airport operator.

How do I get a drone pilot certificate?

To get a drone pilot certificate, you need to pass an online exam and register your drone with Transport Canada. The exam is different for basic and advanced operations. Here are the steps to get your drone pilot certificate for each category:

Basic Operations

1. Complete a course. Transport Canada recommends taking a course before attempting their online exam. Our online course will prepare you for Transport Canada’s basic drone exam. There are about ten hours of course materials. Our course covers all of the topics required by Transport Canada.
2. Pass the exam. Once you’re done studying, take the Basic Exam. It’s administered online by Transport Canada. It consists of 35 multiple choice questions and you must get 65% to pass. If needed, you can retake the exam after 24 hours and as many times as you wish. The exam fee is $10.

Advanced Operations

1. Complete a course. Our online course will prepare you for Transport Canada’s advanced drone exam. There are about fifteen hours of course materials. Our course covers all of the topics required by Transport Canada.
2. Pass the exam. Once you’re done studying, take the Advanced Exam. It’s administered online by Transport Canada. It consists of 50 multiple choice questions and you must get 80% to pass. If needed, you may retake the exam after 24 hours and as many times as you wish. The exam fee is $10.
3. Pass a flight review. You must pass Transport Canada’s Advanced RPAS exam before completing a flight review. A flight review is done in-person and takes about 30 minutes. You have to demonstrate that you know how to operate your drone safely during a short flight. You’re also expected to have a brief conversation with the flight reviewer about the rules and your responsibilities. This is the final step to getting your advanced drone license. The flight review fee varies depending on the flight reviewer you choose.

What are the penalties for flying without a certificate?

If you fly a drone without meeting the requirements, you may be fined. Fines are:

• $1,000 for recreational users
• $5,000 for commercial users

You may also face criminal charges if you endanger the safety of aircraft or people.

If you want to learn more about the drone regulations in Canada, you can visit Transport Canada's webpage on drones. You can also check out our online courses that will help you prepare for the drone exams and become a certified drone pilot. We offer interactive lessons, practice tests, and expert support. Whether you want to fly for fun or for work, our courses are for you. Enroll today and start your drone journey with us!