Question 1

How much does a drone licence cost in Canada?

Accepted Answer

For Basic operations, the cost is $15 ($10 for the online exam plus $5 for drone registration). For Advanced operations, it costs $40 in federal fees ($10 exam, $25 certificate issuance, $5 drone registration) plus $150 to $300 for an in-person flight review conducted by a Transport Canada-approved flight school.

Question 2

How long does it take to get a drone licence in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Same day for a Basic certificate: you can register your drone and complete the 90-minute online exam in an afternoon. An Advanced certificate typically takes 1 to 3 weeks to schedule, complete the in-person flight review, and receive your certificate.

Question 3

How old do you have to be to get a drone licence in Canada?

Accepted Answer

You must be at least 14 years old for a Basic Drone Pilot Certificate, and at least 16 years old for an Advanced Certificate. Youth younger than these ages can only fly if directly supervised by someone who holds the valid certificate.

Question 4

What is the difference between basic and advanced?

Accepted Answer

A Basic certificate permits flying in uncontrolled airspace, at least 30 metres (100 feet) away from bystanders, and never over people. An Advanced certificate permits flying in controlled airspace (near airports and urban areas), within 30 metres of bystanders, and over people (with an approved RPAS safety declaration).

Question 5

Is there a sample test?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Transport Canada publishes Knowledge Requirements study guides (TP 15263) containing sample questions, and authorized drone flight schools offer online practice exam simulators for both Basic and Advanced certifications.

How to get a drone licence in Canada

The route at a glance

Register Your Drone with Transport Canada

Pass Transport Canada Online Knowledge Exam

Complete Practical Flight Review (Advanced Only)

Receive Pilot Certificate & Maintain 24-Month Recency

Register Your Drone with Transport Canada

Pass Transport Canada Online Knowledge Exam

Complete Practical Flight Review (Advanced Only)

Receive Pilot Certificate & Maintain 24-Month Recency

Transport Canada Drone Flight Schools & Reviewers

Coastal Drone Co

Transport Canada Basic Drone Pilot Online Ground School

Coastal Drone Co

Transport Canada Advanced Drone Ground School & Flight Review Package

Common questions

How much does a drone licence cost in Canada?

How long does it take to get a drone licence in Canada?

How old do you have to be to get a drone licence in Canada?

What is the difference between basic and advanced?

Is there a sample test?

Official application portals & fee schedules

Getting a drone pilot certificate

Find a drone flight school