Drone Pilot Certificate Canada 2026: Basic, Advanced & Level 1 Complex

2. Advanced Drone Operations Certificate (Advanced)

What it covers (additions to Basic):

• Extended visual line of sight (EVLOS) — up to 300 meters laterally
• Higher altitudes (up to 300 meters)
• Operations in light precipitation
• Heavier aircraft (up to 35 kg)
• Advanced payloads (thermal cameras, lidar, spray systems)
• Complex airspace (Class C and parts of Class B)
• More weather flexibility

Prerequisites:

• Valid RPAS Pilot Certificate (Basic) OR
• 10+ flight hours with documented log

Exam requirements:

• Written exam: 80 questions, 70% pass score (~56 correct)
• Flight practical exam — mandatory, conducted by approved examiner
• Pre-flight inspection
• Emergency procedures demonstration
• Navigation under wind/weather challenge
• Recovery from unusual attitudes
• Duration: ~2–3 hours
• Study hours: 60–100 hours

Cost:

• Study materials: CA$100–$250
• Written exam: CA$150
• Flight practical: CA$400–$600 (examiner fees)
• Total: ~CA$650–$1,000

Issuance time: 3–6 weeks after flight test approval Valid for: 24 months

3. Level 1 Complex Drone Operations Certificate (Complex)

What it covers (unrestricted commercial operations):

• Beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) — no distance limit
• Autonomous flight (pre-programmed waypoints)
• Operations in controlled airspace (Class B and A with ATC clearance)
• Night operations (with proper equipment)
• Operations in crowded areas (with additional waivers)
• Advanced payloads: industrial sensors, multi-spectral cameras, cargo
• Aircraft over 35 kg (up to 55 kg without special approval)

Prerequisites:

• Valid Advanced Certificate OR
• 25+ flight hours with Advanced operations documented
• RPOC authorization (can apply simultaneously)

Exam requirements:

• Written exam: 100 questions, 75% pass score (~75 correct)
• Flight practical: 4–5 hours with multiple scenarios
• BVLOS navigation (spotter communications)
• Autonomous flight abort and recovery
• Lost signal procedures
• Radio telephony (basic ATC communication)
• Emergency descent into populated area (simulated)
• Additional requirement: Radio Operator Certificate (Part B/C level) or equivalent

Cost:

• Study materials: CA$200–$400
• Written exam: CA$200
• Flight practical: CA$800–$1,200
• Radio Certificate: CA$100–$150 (if not already held)
• Total: ~CA$1,300–$1,950

Issuance time: 4–8 weeks Valid for: 24 months Real scenario: Infrastructure inspection company flying thermal surveys over highways needs Complex for BVLOS safety margins. Basic or Advanced won't permit those operations.