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RPAS Information

Pilot Licensing - RPAS

In Canada there are currently two classes of licenses for RPAS pilot
When flying in controlled airspace, it is important to note the following restrictions:


1) You must maintain a minimum distance of 5.6km (3NM) from a "certified" airport.

2) You must also maintain a minimum distance of 1.8km (1NM) from a "certified" heliport, which is typically found at hospitals.

3) You must stay at 30m (100ft) away from any person not involved in your flight mission.


Failure to adhere to the aforementioned restrictions will result in the flight being classified as an advanced mission, thus requiring an advanced license. As a final reminder we offer our program in a live format zoom or in person and you can also study at your own pace.

Just a reminder - there is no requirement to complete the basic license training before moving on to the advanced license; how ever we do recommend obtaining your basic prior moving onto the advanced for a graduated licensing approach.

Sugu RPAS Certification Road Map

The process of obtaining a license is based on your choice between a Basic or Advanced license. However, the overall process is not as burdensome as it may seem at first.


To successfully complete the task, there are a few stages that must be followed;



  • Create your own individual account on the Transport Canada Drone Management Portal.

  • Register your drone under this account for a one-time fee of $5.

  • This account also allows you to take online exams, each costing $10.


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When preparing to take the Basic or Advanced license exam from Transport Canada, it is crucial to acquire the necessary academic understanding as required by TC. Our online and instructor-led courses are designed to help you achieve this.


If you are currently working towards an Advanced license, the TC Basic exam is not a prerequisite. You can directly enroll in our Advanced course, which will save you both time and money. Rest assured that you will not miss any crucial information from the Basic course, as the advanced course curriculum builds upon the basic curriculum, with a greater amount of learning material.


After completing the necessary academic material, as mandated by Transport Canada, you are eligible to take the TC exam.


The Basic exam is comprised of 35 questions that must be finished within 90 minutes, with a minimum passing score of 65%.


Upon successfully passing this exam, you will be granted the legal authorization to operate your drone, subject to the limitations stated below.



  • The drone must not be flown in controlled airspace.

  • Keep a distance of at least 100ft from bystanders.

  • When flying in uncontrolled airspace, maintain a minimum distance of 5.6km from airports.

  • When in uncontrolled airspace, do not fly closer than 1.8km to heliports..

The Advanced pilot exam requires completing 50 questions within 60 minutes and achieving a minimum of 80% to pass.


After successfully passing the exam, you will receive a Basic license that enables you to legally operate flights within the aforementioned restrictions. Once you have gained proficiency in flying, you have the option to schedule a Flight Review with an approved reviewer. If you pass the flight review, you can then upgrade your Basic license to an Advanced license.


As an accredited declared flight training unit, we have the ability to both conduct your flight reviews and offer customized Flight Training, Flight Review, or a combination of both.

Ask how we can help by visiting our live chat or emailing us today!