Drone Pilot Recency Requirements in Canada: Staying Current Every 24 Months

Many pilots believe their drone certificate is valid forever. The certificate itself doesn’t expire, but the Canadian Aviation Regulations only let you use its privileges if you’ve kept your knowledge current within the 24 months before a flight. This is called the recency requirement.

Who it applies to

Recency applies to holders of Basic and Advanced certificates who fly drones of 250 g or more. Microdrone pilots who don’t need a certificate are not affected.

Activities that typically count

Within the 24 months before you fly, you need to complete at least one recognized activity, such as:

• Passing an online exam again (Basic or Advanced, depending on your certificate).
• Passing a flight review with a recognized reviewer.
• Completing a recurrent training activity recognized by Transport Canada, for example an endorsed safety seminar or self-paced study program.

The exact list and conditions can change. Check Transport Canada’s drone safety pages before choosing an option.

How to prove you’re current

If an inspector or police officer asks, you should be able to show your certificate and documentation showing when you completed your most recent recency activity. Keep:

• the exam result or flight review record;
• a certificate of completion for training activities;
• a note in your flight log with the date and activity.

What happens if you lapse

If you’re outside the 24-month window, you’re not allowed to exercise the privileges of your certificate until you complete a recency activity. Flying anyway can be treated like flying without a valid certificate, with fines of up to $1,000 for individuals — see drone fines in Canada.

Easy ways to stay current

1. Re-take the online exam every two years: it refreshes the rules and only takes an hour or so.
2. Combine recency with an upgrade: passing the Advanced flight review is both a step up and a recency activity.
3. Attend a recognized safety seminar through a flight school or club.

Recency and rule changes

Drone rules were significantly updated in 2025. Refreshing your knowledge regularly is the best way to keep up with changes such as new operation categories and fees. Review our Canada drone rules overview and the complete index of drone laws.