Drones are becoming increasingly popular in Canada, whether for recreational use, photography, or commercial applications. To fly legally, you need a drone pilot license, either Basic or Advanced, depending on your needs. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting certified in 2025.

Step 1: Visit the Transport Canada Drone Pilot Licensing Portal

To become a licensed drone pilot, start by visiting Transport Canada’s website to review licensing requirements. You’ll also find a list of drone flight schools to help you prepare for the exam.

For a free, all-in-one online training solution, we recommend RPAS Centre—Canada’s #1 hub for FREE drone training resources. Our platform provides structured courses, study guides, and practice tests to help you succeed.

Step 2: Decide Between a Basic or Advanced License

If you’re not sure which license to get, here is a quick outline that shows the difference between them.

• Basic License: Allows you to fly drones in uncontrolled airspace, away from people and airports. This is ideal for hobbyists and those who only plan to fly in open areas.

• Advanced License: Required for flying in controlled airspace, near people, or in special operations. This is best for commercial drone pilots, photographers, and surveyors who need more flight flexibility.

If you’re unsure which is right for you, take our RPAS Centre License Quiz to find out! It’s a quick and easy way to determine the best path for your drone pilot goals. 

Step 3: Enroll in the Right Training Course

Once you’ve chosen the correct license for you, you can enroll in our Basic or Advanced drone training courses at RPAS Centre. Our courses are designed to prepare you for the Transport Canada exams with comprehensive materials and practice tests.

• Basic Training: Covers fundamental drone operation rules, airspace awareness, safety protocols, and responsible drone use.

• Advanced Training: Includes everything in Basic Training, plus additional topics such as advanced airspace regulations, emergency procedures, radio communications, and risk management.

Click the links to enroll in RPAS Centre’s Basic or Advanced drone training courses–for free!

Step 4: Complete the Course and Practice Quizzes

Our training program includes practice quizzes with Transport Canada-style questions to ensure you’re ready for the exam. Each quiz is designed to mimic the real test format, helping you build confidence and identify areas where you need improvement. Additionally, you’ll receive a free workbook with either the Basic or Advanced course with fill in the blank questions designed to help you retain the information in the course!

You’ll also gain access to study resources, regulations breakdowns, and flight operation scenarios to reinforce key concepts. Taking the time to go through the material thoroughly will give you the best chance of passing the exam on your first attempt.

Step 5: Take the Transport Canada Exam

Once you have finished the RPAS Centre courses, you are ready to take the Transport Canada Exam. Here’s what you need to know:

• Basic License Exam: Requires a 65% or higher to pass. This exam consists of 35 multiple choice questions and you will have 90 minutes to complete the exam, after which it will be automatically submitted. This test focuses on fundamental drone operations, safety, and regulations. 

• Advanced License Exam: Requires an 80% or higher to pass. This exam consists of 50 multiple choice questions and you will have 60 minutes to complete the exam, and it will be automatically submitted at the end of the time limit. This test covers more complex airspace management, operational procedures, and emergency responses.

The exam is conducted online via Transport Canada’s portal and can be taken at your convenience. Be sure to review Transport Canada’s exam criteria to ensure you meet all requirements before attempting the test.

Step 6 (Advanced License Only): Book a Flight Review

Passing either exam automatically grants you a Basic License. However, to become Advanced Certified, you must complete a flight review with an authorized reviewer.

The flight review is a practical assessment where you demonstrate your ability to operate a drone safely and competently under real-world conditions. You will be evaluated on:

• Pre-flight planning (weather checks, NOTAM reviews, site assessments)

• Airspace awareness and communication

• Controlled takeoff, navigation, and landing

• Emergency procedures (handling system failures, avoiding obstacles, responding to lost-link scenarios)

RPAS WILCO makes this easy—book a flight review with one of our expert, Transport Canada-recognized reviewers to finalize your Advanced certification. RPAS WILCO has nationwide coverage, allowing you to book a review wherever you are located. We provide detailed feedback and guidance to help you pass with confidence.

Book a flight review with RPAS WILCO today!

Get Started Today!

Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional drone pilot, getting licensed in Canada is easier than ever with RPAS Centre’s free training and RPAS WILCO’s flight review services.

📌 Start your journey today at RPAS Centre and get certified!