Introduction
Canada has developed one of the world’s most comprehensive drone regulatory frameworks under Transport Canada. For FPV pilots, the rules are clear, well-documented, and — importantly — enforced. Whether you’re a recreational pilot in Vancouver or a commercial operator in Toronto, understanding Transport Canada’s 2026 drone regulations is essential.
This guide covers the two-tier pilot certificate system, registration requirements, FPV-specific rules, and recent updates that affect Canadian drone pilots.
The Two-Category System
Transport Canada divides all drone operations into two categories based on weight and proximity to people:
Basic Operations
For drones weighing 250g to 25kg, flown:
- More than 30 meters (100 feet) horizontally from bystanders
- At least 5.6 km from any airport (3 nautical miles)
- At least 1.9 km from any heliport (1 nautical mile)
- Below 400 feet (122 meters) AGL
- In Class G (uncontrolled) airspace only
Advanced Operations
Required if you want to fly:
- Within 30 meters of bystanders (but never directly over them)
- Within controlled airspace (with NAV CANADA authorization)
- Closer than 3 NM from an airport or 1 NM from a heliport
- Over bystanders (requires a compliant RPAS with a Special Flight Operations Certificate)
Pilot Certificates
Basic Pilot Certificate
Requirements:
- Be at least 14 years old
- Pass the Transport Canada Small Basic Exam (online, $10)
- 35 multiple-choice questions, 65% to pass
- Covers air law, procedures, meteorology, human factors
- Valid indefinitely — no renewal required
Advanced Pilot Certificate
Requirements:
- Hold a Basic Pilot Certificate
- Pass the Transport Canada Small Advanced Exam (online, $10)
- 50 multiple-choice questions, 80% to pass
- Complete an in-person flight review with a Transport Canada-approved flight reviewer
- Valid for 2 years (must be renewed with a new flight review)
FPV-Specific Rules
Transport Canada is strict on FPV operations. The key rule: you must maintain visual line of sight (VLOS) at all times. If you’re flying FPV with goggles, a visual observer must:
- Maintain unaided visual contact with the drone
- Be positioned close enough to communicate directly without electronic aids
- Scan the airspace for potential conflicts
Important: The visual observer must not be engaged in any other task while performing observer duties. They cannot also film, spot for another pilot, or manage spectators.
Solo FPV without a spotter is explicitly illegal in Canada, and Transport Canada has issued fines for violations. Penalties for individuals start at $1,000 and can reach $15,000 for serious infractions. Commercial operators can face fines up to $25,000.
Drone Registration
All drones weighing 250g or more must be registered with Transport Canada. Key points:
- Registration cost: $5 per drone
- You receive a unique registration number that must be displayed on the drone
- Registration is valid indefinitely (does not expire)
- You must carry proof of registration while flying
- Registration is tied to the drone, not the pilot — sell a drone, transfer the registration
Sub-250g Drones: The Canadian Perspective
Drones under 250 grams are exempt from registration and pilot certification requirements — but you must still fly safely. Transport Canada can still penalize reckless operation of sub-250g drones under the Criminal Code (dangerous operation) or the Aeronautics Act (endangering aviation safety).
Additionally, sub-250g drones must not be flown:
- In a reckless or negligent manner
- In restricted airspace (e.g., near forest fires, emergency zones, national parks with aviation restrictions)
- In a way that endangers aviation safety
Remote ID in Canada
As of 2026, Canada has not yet implemented Remote ID requirements for drones. Transport Canada has been monitoring the FAA and EASA implementations and has indicated they will develop a Canadian approach aligned with international standards, but no firm timeline has been announced. Canadian FPV pilots currently fly without Remote ID modules — though this may change by 2027-2028.
Micro-Drone Exemptions
In 2026, Transport Canada maintains a micro-drone exemption for drones under 250g. These drones can be operated without a pilot certificate or registration, and the 5.6km airport distance rule does not apply (though flying near airports recklessly is still prohibited). This exemption is why sub-250g FPV builds have become wildly popular among Canadian pilots.
Insurance
Transport Canada does not mandate insurance for recreational drone pilots. However, commercial operators should carry liability insurance — typical policies from Canadian providers like Magnes and SkyWatch offer $500,000 to $2 million in coverage for $500-$1,500 annually. The Model Aeronautics Association of Canada (MAAC) includes liability insurance with membership, making it an excellent option for club fliers.
Conclusion
Canada’s drone rules are clear and proportionate. Get your Basic Certificate (and Advanced if you need flexibility), register your drones over 250g, always fly with a spotter for FPV, and stay under 250g if you want the simplest regulatory path. The Canadian system works — follow the rules and enjoy some of the world’s most spectacular FPV flying locations, from the Rockies to the Atlantic coast.
Sources: Transport Canada Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) Part IX, TP 15263 (Knowledge Requirements for Pilots of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems), Transport Canada Advisory Circular AC 922-001, Aeronautics Act R.S.C., 1985.