Canada Transport Aviation

2025 Summary of Changes to Canada's Drone Regulations

Transport Canada has published amendments to Canada's drone regulations effective April 1 and November 4, 2025, introducing new pilot certifications for lower-risk BVLOS operations (Level 1 Complex), expanded privileges for Advanced pilots (sheltered operations, EVLOS), and new rules for medium drones (25–150 kg). The regulations remove the need for a Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC-RPAS) for certain operations, replacing them with a new RPAS Operator Certificate (RPOC) and tiered fee structure ranging from $20 to $2,000. Operators wishing to conduct BVLOS, EVLOS, or sheltered operations must wait until November 4, 2025, but may begin the certification process (Level 1 Complex exam, RPOC application) starting April 1, 2025.