Drones for Christmas: What you need to know!

It is that time of year again. If a drone is going under the tree — yours or someone else’s — a few minutes now saves an awkward conversation later.

1. Who Needs a Certificate?

Weight decides it. If the aircraft weighs 250 grams or more, the pilot needs a certificate before flying it outdoors, and the drone itself needs registering. Both are handled through Transport Canada’s Drone Management Portal.

Below 250 grams, neither applies — though the reckless-operation rule still does, national and provincial parks are still off limits, and since April 2025 an SFOC is required to fly even a microdrone at an advertised event.

2. Where Can You Fly?

Basic certificate holders stay outside controlled airspace, more than 3 nautical miles (5.6 km) from airports, 1 nautical mile from heliports, and 100 feet (30 metres) from bystanders.

That sounds generous until you map it. Our guide to where you can fly with a Basic certificate shows how little of most Canadian cities is actually left.

Advanced certificate holders have considerably more freedom. It takes more work — an in-person flight review on top of the online exam — but it is what most people who fly near people or buildings eventually need.

3. How Hard Is It to Get Certified?

Easier than the paperwork suggests. Training is worth more than just passing the test: once you understand your aircraft and the factors affecting a flight, the whole thing becomes considerably more enjoyable and a good deal less nerve-wracking.

A Basic pilot can realistically train and certify in a single day. Our Basic Online Bundle includes ground school, exam prep and checklist guides.