Keeping your RPAS License up to date

Becoming a drone pilot and getting your license initially can be a big investment. There may be training costs involved, and likely fees associated with the exams and assessments. Luckily, once you’ve got your RPAS license, it doesn’t expire. However, this does not mean it’s a one-and-done deal. Under CAR 901.65, Transport Canada states that in order to maintain a valid RPAS license: 

Your pilot certificate does not expire, but you must be able to show proof of completion of one of the approved recency activities within the previous 24 months whenever you fly.

The activities mentioned are: 

1. Re-taking and passing either:

• the Small Basic Exam

• the Small Advanced Exam

2. Successfully passing a flight review

3. Completing any one of the following training activities:

• attendance at a safety seminar endorsed by Transport Canada Civil Aviation

• completion of a drone recurrent training program from a drone flight school - like us!

• completion of a Transport Canada endorsed self-paced study program

It is important to note that any of these activities must be completed every 24 months (or 2 years). This helps keep your knowledge up to date without having to go through the entire certification process again. Since the world of drones is relatively new and evolving, it’s important that the regulations are adaptable and that pilots can keep up with any changes.

If you’re not sure if you need to complete a recency activity, head on over to the Transport Canada Drone Management Portal to see your last relevant activity. If your last activity was more than 24 months ago, it’s time for a refresher. 

Transport Canada Drone Management Portal > View exam results

Remember, if you have questions, concerns, or hesitations, feel free to reach out! We are here to help in any way we can. :)

As always, be safe and have fun!

Love,

The FlySmart Team