Canada To Require Drone Registration, Pilot License

Transport Canada has issued new rules that require drone pilots to register their aircraft and obtain a pilot certificate by June 1. The requirements apply to drones weighing between 250 grams and 25 kilograms (8.8 ounces and 55 pounds) that are operated within the pilot’s visual line of sight, regardless of whether the drone is flown for fun, work, or research.

The new regulations also introduce two main categories of drone operation: basic and advanced. Categories are based on distance from bystanders and airspace rules.

Each category has its own set of rules that will require the pilot to mark the drone with its registration number; pass an online exam and get a pilot certificate for basic (minimum age 14) or advanced (minimum age 16) operations; and keep the drone below 400 ft agl and away from air traffic. Those who want to fly a drone outside the rules for basic or advanced operations will need to apply for a special flight operations certificate.

Transport Canada has also developed a website with information on the new regulations and tools for all drone pilots. Anyone who violates the regulations could be “subject to fines of up to $25,000 and/or prison,” Transport Canada said. “This applies to drones of any size used for any purpose.”