Transport Canada Drone Exams — What to Expect
All Transport Canada drone exams are taken online through the Drone Management Portal: tc.canada.ca/en/aviation/drone-safety/drone-management-portal
Basic Exam (Small Basic):
- 35 multiple-choice questions
- 90-minute time limit
- Pass mark: 65% (23 out of 35)
- Topics: Based on TP 15263 — air law, RPAS systems, human factors, meteorology, navigation, theory of flight, flight operations, radiotelephony
Advanced Exam (Small Advanced):
- 50 multiple-choice questions
- 60-minute time limit
- Pass mark: 80% (40 out of 50)
- Topics: Same as Basic but at a more advanced level
For both exams:
- Results are given immediately after completion
- If you fail, you must wait 24 hours before retaking
- You can retake as many times as needed
- Transport Canada recommends attending a drone flight school before attempting the exam
Exam tips:
- Complete the RPAS Centre course and mock exam before attempting the TC exam
- Review any sections where you scored poorly on the mock exam
- Download and study the workbook
- Attend a free live Eventbrite session for extra preparation
- Many students pass on their first attempt with our training
Prepare with RPAS Centre:
- Basic: academy.rpascentre.com/course/basic-exam-prep (free)
- Advanced: academy.rpascentre.com/course/advanced-exam-prep (free)
Updated on: 06/03/2026