Study Guide for Canadian Drone Pilot Basic Operations Exam Up to Date & Current

[@jipcanada]

Thanks! Just got my pilot certificate.... I will now be upgrading my dji spark to a Boeing 747! Thanks!

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam. Be sure to carefully track your Spark upgrade in your maintenance log!

[@jipcanada]

@@DonJoyce LOL!

[@RossisLost]

@@DonJoyce .Lmao!

[@tomhilbig8358]

That's just not reasonable. Walk before you run. If you have your drone pilot certificate then you are automatically qualified for the Boeing 737 Max. Get some experience on that before you jump to the 747

[@goprohero7whitevlogs952]

considering getting a DJI spark would you recommend it?

[@XraygogsTV]

Fundamental Drone Rules. Basic vs Advanced & if a SFOC or VLOS is required: 6:06 Where are you permitted / not permitted to fly: 8:48 01 - Air Law, Air Traffic Rules & Procedures: 12:50 and 15:18 02 - RPAS Airframes, Powerplants, Propulsion and Systems: 16:12 03 - Human Factors: 18:10 04 - Meteorology: 19:36 05 - Navigation: 21:05 06 - Flight Operations: 23:33 07 - Theory of Flight: 25:44 08 - Radiotelephony: 26:36 Someone give this Don guy a damn medal.

[@jf-villemure]

Done the exam without studying to get an idea of the questions, got 54%; watched this vid and studied for 4 hours the materials you told to study in the vid, done the exam again the day after my first attempt.. got 84%! so yeah many thanks to you my friend! The less expensive study guide I've found so far cost 80$ and still you put this vid for free on YT you are a real hero!🤘🏻

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam! And thank you for your kind words! Happy flying.

[@セ千尺丂セ]

I bought this stupid Dons Study Guide and no help.

[@pierrerobert4672]

C'est d'une grande générosité de sa part en effet.

[@SimonGoliathLafontant]

Watched this video once, Wrote the test with Google open, and Passed with 77% in 35 minutes LOL You sir are a real one.

[@DonJoyce]

Hey, congratulations on passing the exam! Glad my material helped at least a little bit. Safe and happy flying!

[@outoftheblueaerialimagery330]

Thank you Don! I've been studying for months but was afraid to take the test not sure if I knew enough yet. After watching your video, I brushed up on a couple of things and decided to take the plunge! I PASSED! If it hadn't been for you, I wouldn't have had the courage to take it. I'm the kind person who MUST pass on the first try! This video was by far the best out there. KUDOS to you and thank you very much! It's obvious how much time and effort you put into it. And I agree with your comments on what is applicable and what is not. 80% of my questions had nothing to do with drones or the safety thereof. I'll be sure stop at the designated lines on the airport runway the next time I'm on the tarmac flying my drone!!

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on your passing! Yay!!! I’m glad to have helped in some small way. Btw, have you watched my Droners Guide series where I translate the rules into plain English?

[@aggressivejazzhands2569]

Just passed my basic exam with a 94%! For preparation I simply watched your video twice, took a quick look over all the referenced materials to familiarize myself with them, and then Google and Ctrl+F did the leg work. Hilarious how little of my exam had to do with drones. Seems like it would be EXTREMELY easy to fill an exam with actual useful questions for done pilots to study up on to ensure safer flying. But hey, what do we know? 🤣 Thanks a million, Don! You're an absolute legend.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam with such a great mark, Jazz Hands! Yes, the exam questions are ridiculous and DPAC is working hard to correct that with TC.

[@cryptohunt2552]

That's impressive! I'm going to try and pass mine tomorrow.

[@losttouristpresents]

Appreciate the time you took to make this video. Really takes the fun away from the hobby. I will do the test but under protest. The fact that they include so much that is overkill is ridiculous. I'm glad I don't have to provide records of all the maintenance etc on all my vehicles. Honestly disgusted with entire thing. Imagine having to have in your possession on every flight a log book , maintenance schedule, and god knows what else. I suppose the upside to all this is I will be carrying a pilot license that I can laminate and wear around my neck. Better start looking for a pilot hat as well.

[@DonJoyce]

LOL...when you get the hat, send a pic! On the serious side, I hear your concern and share it. You may want to constructively provide feedback to Transport Canada.

[@chosenideahandle]

You'll never in a million years be asked for your registration or your license unless you're really calling attention to yourself. I'm doing mine as well, but I really give a rat's ass about it. I've reported numerous cases of seriously dangerous drone operation in the middle of downtown Toronto (all different pilots, different locations and times). It's been two years, and would you like to know how many they've looked into? Zero. We haven't got the resources to police any of this stuff, and the funds available are decreasing, not increasing. It's all quite pointless. It makes good sense to have rules, but there is no reason for a test like this other than to make money (that will be spent on anything other than drone safety).

[@chosenideahandle]

@@DonJoyce how long have you lived in Canada Don lol? You could write them until you had carpel tunnel that someone is dropping napalm on your home with a drone, and you'd have a better chance of winning the lottery than someone paying any attention whatsoever.

[@MrTechGamer2000]

Facts Canadian government is such pussies

[@parkerchristie1252]

THANK YOU SO MUCH! 2024 and this guy is still helping people pass. I just passed with 85%, first try because of your videos

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam! Safe and happy flying!

[@hopscotchtheglobe]

This really helped! I just took the test and passed with 75%. This video was the perfect amount of information without giving away any answers. I respect the laws and safe flying. It feels great to have my certificate!

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam! Happy droning!

[@michaelobree9506]

Don - I just had my "..processing, loading, I passed - yeah!" moment, thanks in large part to your video. All I did was read through the relevant CARs once, load up the CAR, KR, AIM on different windows on my browser/PDF viewer as you suggested, and blew through the exam in 45 minutes (including google searching at least half a dozen of the questions) - 88%! Thanks for your extremely well thought out approach and video.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations, Michael, for passing your exam! And for the great mark! I'm glad my Study Guide helped you achieve this.

[@alpatte3565]

Hi Don. I want to thank you for your video. I am 74 years old, and I just got my Pilot Certificate. If I can get it, anyone can. You just have to follow your instructions, and read a lot, and write things down. Thanks again Don. Al Patte. Also I had to take the exam 8 times. LOL.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing the exam!! I hope you're kidding about taking it 8 times! But yes, it is a lot of material to learn or even to know what to look up. Thanks for your support.

[@camh5071]

Thank you for information and direction to relevant documents. I’m sure you trimmed hours off of my studies. I just did the Basic Exam and passed with 91%. Time to FLY!

[@Derigger1970]

I believe the rule about height restriction above building refers to if you are flying next to a 50 story building that you are able to break the maximum height limit of 400ft if you are within required distance horizontally and not beyond the height limit above that building.

[@DonJoyce]

Thanks, Darrin. You are correct. Please refer to my more recent video regarding height: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioeqhIJmjrCCack

[@drnda2007]

50 story building is ~200m so you can fly drone up to 230m and not be further than 61m away from the building. How's one going to measure this 61m is the question. There may also be a rule how close one can fly next to a building? Was it 30m? What are the chances that there are no people around that building when you are 230m high? So this would not be really applicable to any populated area again. This can only be safely applied to some remote area (silo, tower). This rule 30m above makes sense as there is a restriction for aircraft in relation to tall objects. Not sure what is the rule but is sure more than 100m.

[@fraserriverfinds]

This was a great tool with a lot of important insight. I watched it through and wrote out everything on the screen in a notebook. I took the test without studying further thinking I would just get my feet wet and prepare to fail but after about 40 minutes I passed! I didn’t see my score anywhere but I am good to go. I only have a Mini 4 Pro but I am grateful for the education👏🏼

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam! You should have received an email with your exam results and a soft copy of your certificate. If not, log back into the Drone Management Portal and you can download them from there. I'm glad to hear my video helped.

[@rcowego7396]

Great Video! I was excited that you had put this all together for us, but then..... I'm a US Citizen, and before I prepared to take the Transport Canada Drone Cert Test I thought I'd register my drone first. While filling out the registration form, I came to "Foreign residents are not eligible to register or operate a drone in Canada. If you are a foreign resident and wish to operate a drone in Canada, you must 1. apply for a Special Flight Operations Certificate. (SFOC)" "Extra rules apply if you're a foreign operator (you are not Canadian and you fly in Canadian airspace). You must have an approved certificate to fly a drone for work or research " It appears Canada assumes if your not from Canada your not flying for recreation. 2. The SFOC requires non-Canadian citizens to go to an approved Canadian Flight School 3. Send the form and documents to the Civil Aviation regional office in the region where you intend to fly 4. I imagine insurance requirements will be next, etc. Such a shame for us hobbyists and Canadian tourism. I hope someday Transport Canada will become more reasonable.

[@DonJoyce]

Thanks for watching....and yes, it's crazy that visitors to Canada don't have some reasonable way to fly here with some sort of simple tourist permit.

[@jakubsisak]

Yes liability insurance is required for an SFOC. This has always been the case. Flight school isn't necessary as far as i know but training approved by TC is. This can be an online training as long as the certificate is recognized by TC. Some of these only cost around $200 CAD.

[@LynxGenisys]

Fast forward to 2024! Lets hope it's still all the same! Studying for another day or 2, then then gona challenge this exam!

[@LynxGenisys]

AND SUCCESS! 1ST TRY! 94% Thank you soo much for your study guide!

[@cecewang6936]

Hey Don, I used your study guide to get ready for the basic test. Took it tonight and I passed the first time with 83%. You guide really helped. Thank you.

[@DonJoyce]

That's fantastic, CeCe!! Glad hear the Study Guide helped!

[@SunfireGTX25]

Great to know. I'm going to be studying this weekend for it as I have a Mavic Air arriving in the mail Monday :)

[@kingbanksss]

How long were u studying for

[@ryanisflying]

Hey Don. Pilot Ryan here (commercial manned, fixed wing, light, land based aeroplane & basic rpas). Love the channel! In fact I love it so much that I just realized I’ve watched this video twice and I didn’t realize it until I heard you comment about where to find radio frequencies published. Because the first time I heard it I took a moment of pause to think about what you said and it happened again and experience a bit of déjà vu because I believe you have the wrong answer there. Not to be that guy I just wanted to point out that the correct answer is not the AIM but CFS (used by VFR pilots) Or the CAP (used by IFR pilots). The aim is the aeronautical information manual which has information on the rules of flying in canada. The CFS is the Canadian Flight Suppliment which is the phone directory of aerodromes and their published frequencies, services offered by them, the operator, the flight services info, ARCAL runway light frequencies, runway information, and much much more top notch exciting and crucial information regarding the aerodrome that you’re inquiring about. The CAP is the Canada air pilot directory which is basically the IFR version of the CFS. Im not IFR Rated yet so i dont know for certain the exact differences but they’re pretty similar to each other. That’s all i have. Good job on the channel! Cheers

[@DonJoyce]

Thanks, Ryan! Yes, the CFS is definitely the correct place for the specific aerodrome frequencies, although the AIM has a ton of information about general radio communications ... which we also need to know for the exams.

[@theainomad5082]

It is much harder than one would think, I did it last week and passed with 82% but there was a point where I thought I may not pass, question ranging from aeronautical maps to aerodynamics. In short, prepare before you take the exam. it is ridiculously complicated and unnecessary for 90% of the casual drone users.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing, Aerial Nomad! Preparation definitely helps, and I believe my Study Guide will help many people with that preparation.

[@seansteede]

So true! I did it last night - took about an hour and was "googling" the entire time. I was shocked at the complexity of the questions and the lack of relevancy - and even more shocked that I passed!

[@leapnlarry]

Do. You have to be a Canadian citizen/resident to take them exam. I will be visiting canada for a few months this summer from he USA. I was born in canada but a us citizen and resident.

[@DonJoyce]

Hi Larry! It is quite possible the border will remain closed through the summer, particularly given the much worse per-capita impact of COVID-19 in the USA compared to Canada. Aside from that, only sub-250g drones can be flown by non-Canadians. Transport Canada has also stopped issuing SFOCs for recreational flights (before the pandemic, incidentally)

[@wginseng4752]

I have my YEAH moment too at first try!😁 Thank you Don for your excellent and instructive video. Since English is my second language, it’s harder for me to understand the questions and answers. So after viewing your video I decided to take the plunge to see what kind of questions am I expected in the exam in order to focus on what to study. What a surprise! Lot of questions are not related to the drone regulations, which I’m sure a normal drone hobbyist has no knowledge about them; for example asking the type of turbulence, how to spot a dangerous cloud. I got 3 questions related to airspace class. Throughout the exam, I use extensively Google and CAR 901 section. I Google the answers instead of the questions and I used the method of elimination for those questions that I’m not sure of the answers. I used all 90 minutes allowed for the exam, and what a surprise! I passed the exam at 77% like you! 😎 Thank you Don! For those who hesitate to take the exam, my advice is use your common sense and safety first in your mind. You’ll be okay for the test. Good luck to everyone! Let’s flying our drones😁😁😁

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam, W Ginseng!! And yes, I've stopped using weather apps and only look for dangerous clouds now...ninja cumulous being the worst!

[@klrktsr]

Hi Don, so if I buy your guide for $30 for basic operations - will this reading this material be enough to pass?

[@DonJoyce]

The breadth of knowledge required to know the answers to all the questions is immense. The guide provides key information and includes links to additional (free) reading material. Good luck with your exam.

[@RickyDueck]

You have created an amazing Study Guide, thankyou! Just passed the Basic Operations Exam with 88% after studying with this guide! The whole thing (studying and taking the test) took me under 4 hours.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam, Ricky! Happy flying!

[@uploaded113redone]

Should of just skipped the studying and googled as you went and finished in 30 mins

[@aravindgatla6133]

Hey can you help with the material which you have gone to

[@セ千尺丂セ]

I"m moving to Switzerland. NO need for exams.

[@DonJoyce]

And nice scenery!

[@MichaelPMc]

Another stupid law brought in to make criminals out of a lot of law abiding Canadians. We as Canadians should have refused to do any of this. The trouble with stupid nonsensical laws is they ensure non-compliance, don't make anyone safer and will destroy the RC hobby. There is no way my fleet of ageing RC planes will ever be registered, I still have one from the 70's. Imagine having to report everytime you repair a model? I'v seen trainers pranged and repaired numerous times on the same day. What difference does it make ? None? This bunch of regulations and the stupid politicians who dreamed them up need to be flushed down the nearest toilet as soon as possible.

[@DonJoyce]

Hi Michael. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. I hear you! You may want to contact Transport Canada, constructively. Thank you again for your support.

[@charlesvigneau3701]

I really think you are wrong. Drone in the wrong hands could possibly take down a plane and invading people's privacy and a lot of other things that you think are stupid nonsensical laws. What if your whole family was on the plane and died because of RC drone that was not registered.

[@carson7947]

@@charlesvigneau3701 that was already illegal. Existing laws already prohibited those things. Btw filming people on their private property is totally legal, as long as you are in public,and as long as they arent naked or in a washroom.

[@RayMajoran]

Invaluable resource... thank you!!!! Just did the exam... What a BRUTAL BRUTAL exam that has virtually nothing to do with flying a drone. I got 80%, but I only had 4 minutes (out of 90 minutes) to spare, and I consider myself pretty fast at searching through documents / Google, etc. If it wasn't for your resource, there's no way I would have passed. Thank you.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam!

[@jean-pierreroy8294]

Finally found something usefull wish TC had thought about it the best way is to educate not question people ...thks

[@DonJoyce]

Thanks, Jean-Pierre! Yes, the lack of an official Study Guide or sample questions is shocking. Glad to be able to help though!

[@TheTeehee11111]

@@DonJoyce The lack of an official study guide is why I refuse to take the exam. It seems to me they didn't do the exam in good faith.

[@EgyptologyLessons]

Thank you Don, I passed after watching your video twice and googling with key words = passed 71% Basic Test, Yay!!! You're the best!!

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing the exam! Safe and happy flying. I have MANY other videos explaining just about anything related to the Canadian drone regulations, so please watch more as you advance your piloting skills!

[@BrantAerials]

Very good and insightful review of the test and what to expect. At 11:00, I think we interpret flying OVER buildings differently. If the top of a building is considered "ground level" then I think they intend to allow you to fly 30m (100 feet) above that level as long as you stay within 61m (200 feet) of that building. Otherwise, the criteria would be "Altitude NEAR buildings" and not "Altitude OVER buildings". Logically, manned aircraft are probably restricted from flying closer that 100 feet OVER a building and at least 200 feet way. Your thoughts?

[@DonJoyce]

Gary, I think you are correct. 901.25 (1b) says "100 feet (30 m) above any building or structure" which is different than the 901.25 (1a) statement about maximum altitude being "400 feet (122 m) AGL". Thank you for spotting this! I will correct the wording in the Study Guide PDF material and clarify in my upcoming walk through of all the "901"s. (ugh....that's going to be another long one!)

[@Apachewolf]

Yeah I thought the same thing. I know here in the U.S. we can fly up to 400 feet about a structure within 400 feet of the structure. In Canada it looks like up to 100 feet above building within 200 feet, am I reading this right? I wonder if that's for any structure or just building?

[@GoldFus1on]

Thanks for the breakdown, Don. Just did my exam and got 97%. Followed your guide and that helped out a lot.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam with such a great score!! Safe and happy flying!

[@adamelanwer6654]

Hey Don, I can’t put it in to words for how great full I am for you and this fantastic video. I had my “loading, processing… YAYYYYY” Moment and it’s all because of you I appreciate it so much and please continue making fantastic videos like this one 😁 I also got 77 percent by the way hahahah.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam, Adam! I'm glad you found my video helpful! Many many more on my channel.

[@andrewskowronski6283]

ALTITUDE OVER BUILDINGS.....If the building is 350 feet high you may proceed to 450 feet altitude with your drone, yes you are above the 400 foot allowed but you must be within 200 feet of that structure. If the building is 400 feet yes you may climb to 450 or 500 feet as needed to clear the roof top as you are within 200 feet of the structure, these are the only times you may exceed the 400 foot flight altitude. Same goes for antenna towers, cranes etc. go over the needed altitude within 200 feet of a very high structure. NOT FLY LOW AS STATED IN THIS VIDEO. This is the only exeception to height and allowable altitudes. Thanks for looking, Great video for preparations thanks kindly..Cheers!!

[@DonJoyce]

Thank you, Andrew. Looks like you missed the errata in the description below the video, and the card in the video for this point. The corrected 'how high can you fly', as well as a better way to state this rule is in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioeqhIJmjrCCack Thanks for your attentiveness and for taking the time to point out the error.

[@andrewskowronski6283]

@@DonJoyce Thanks for the video reference and explanations...Great job on informing drone pilot enthusiasts with knowledge we all require to stay safe above...Cheers! Stay Safe.

[@Dr.SalvatoreVinciguerra]

Excellent study guide. Thanks for making this video to help us to learn how to fly our drones.

[@DonJoyce]

Thank you for watching! Hope it helps people to fly safely!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

I passed the test first try no studying at all for the Canadian exam, but I did take a course for the 107 which I am taking this week. Mostly common sense answers, got an 80.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam! Safe and happy flying!

[@KasumiVA]

This is so interesting about the drone exam! A great study guide for people who want to pass the exam!

[@DonJoyce]

Thank you, Kasumi!

[@kawaiiphotobooth3248]

Thank you so much for the study guy I really find it very useful I use it and I passed with 91% today.

[@Serenity17]

I figured the best way to increase my mark on the test was to try it out, heck I have the 10$ to spare. So I opened all the tabs you linked in the description and started the test! I used ctrl-f on the different tabs with key words from the questions and passed the exam 1st try with 85%! I think they changed the test because it was definitely easier than people make it out to be on KZbin. They might've made it more accessible due to the feedback perhaps? Anyways thank you sir I'm now flying legally! It was a breeze.

[@DonJoyce]

Hey, congratulations on passing your exam!!! Happy flying!

[@chardo6]

This sounds like something I would do. Did you have ANY knowledge of anything before this? Just used your internet skills with copy past and find?

[@RB-nv4lo]

Just did the same and got 80% !

[@throttlegoblinfpv]

I was thinking about doing the same thing, is the Advanced exam based on the same material? just with more questions, tighter window and higher grade required?

[@karlschwab6437]

Wow! That's a lot of great information. We'll done with this video

[@DonJoyce]

Thanks so much!

[@davestredulinsky]

Thank you Don for taking the time to put this together. It should be a big help in my preparation for the exam. Also thank you for the links to the useful resource documents. Congratulations on passing the exam. Hope you are having a good evening.

[@DonJoyce]

Thanks Dave! Good luck with your exam!!! May you get lots of cloud questions! LOL

[@AwesomePlayers]

First of all a huge thanks. Watched your video and took the exam. Had the docs you recommended handy. 91%! I think the question about how an RPA should give way to manned aircraft at all times was asked 4 times in slightly different ways. Some obscure stuff in there that had nothing to do with drones at all.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam! Great mark! Yes, it's a strange distribution of questions.

[@ianafraser]

Many Thanks! I took the test today after going through your guide extensively & researching the relative material. There was some stuff not specifically covered in the exam (at least the one I got), but overall it was an immense help. I probably wouldn't have passed without it. 88% Pass. Thanks again! Kudos to you!

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations, Ian!! Great mark! And I'm glad I helped in some way.

[@o0oj0hnnyo0o7]

Thanks.. Just passed my test with the help of your video. Was crazy hard and I "just" passed. Also registered my mini 3 Pro as it's now over 250 grams with skins, landing gear, and strobe.. Going to the advanced next once I figure out where I can take my flight review. Thanks again..

[@michaelveronneau698]

Thanks Don, just finished the Small Basic Exam...and passed with the able assistance of your PDF guides and videos. Thank you for organizing the tsunami of information into digestible portions...and look forward to watching more of your Droners' guide series...hope that some of that sinks into the policy and process makers.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam, Michael!! I'm glad my material helped you!

[@ParthRathod103]

Just Passed with 94% in my first attempt withour preparing much.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam with such high marks, Parth!! Safe and happy flying!

[@ParthRathod103]

Got my new baby Mavic Air 2, will fly once i get my SFOC, as i cannot register my drone due to i am a student and not a PR or citizen. Guide me to get my SFOC. Thank you Don for such an informative video this video is all i referred to and it was so helpful, all i did was kept open the documents and manuals as you suggested and yeah that helped through out the exam. At last i also had 23 extra minuites, in which i cross checked the answers. So yeah thats all.

[@jacquelinek6432]

Thank you so much for this study guide! It definitely helped me be better prepared to take this crazy exam. I would say more than half of the questions were ridiculous for the basic exam. I seriously thought I had mistakenly taken the advanced exam!, So extremely happy I passed the first time 😊

[@DonJoyce]

I think I heard you yell out 'YAY!' Congratulations! And so glad that the Study Guide helped you prepare.

[@thegrantdanielsband]

Hey now thanks for the help i studied for 1 and a half hours did the test and BOOM!!!!! 71% could not of done it without your helpful video Cheers :-)

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam!

[@thegrantdanielsband]

@@DonJoyce Thanks Don Cheers :-)

[@ericneyens]

Hey Don! I had my "YAAAAAY" Moment just last night!!! I want to thank you for helping me prepare for the test. I spent a few days studying and writing all the laws in my notebook, while I was watching your insightful video. I don't usually comment on videos, but since I can fly now- your video really deserves one.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam, Eric! And thank you for taking the time to comment...I really appreciate it. Happy flying!

[@onlocationwithscott]

Excellent info and direction to the exam materials...I will be taking the exam soon as well. I think its over the top though. Registering the drones is like registering guns. The criminals aren't going to register their guns or drones. I do understand larger drones needing to be registered but the 250g is a joke (my humble opinion...thanks for listening)

[@DonJoyce]

Thank you Corkboard TV! Hey, your opinion counts! Good luck with the exam!!

[@Randor10]

Passed my basic on the first try. Missed the advanced by only 6%

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your Basic, Randy! Oh so close on the Advanced. Any special insights on the Advanced?

[@Randor10]

Don Joyce I took Aviation Ground School last year which is supposed to be very close to the requirements for the advanced test. There are definitely a few things in the advanced test that are different than Ground School.

[@sreenivasannarayanan8439]

Hello Mr. Don, I am new to your KZbin Channel and I find the information about drones, really interesting and intriguing. I just want to confirm that as of 2020/2021 has there been any change in the curriculum about Basic Drone Pilot operation. Can you please let me know if there are any updates that I can look into. Since I'm a novice, I don't have any prior experience about drones, I would like to know more about it from you. I'm really excited to take this learning forward. I'm currently a resident of BC and an Immigrant in Canada. Unfortunately due this Covid-19, I lost my job and my work visa in Canada has expired leaving me perplexed and spaced out. So I felt like taking this certification and adding it to my resume. I also have a bachelors degree in Computer Science from India and a Post Graduate degree in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) from a University here in BC, Canada. I have seen few of your videos and felt like subscribing it as the way in which you have presented interesting stuffs. Thanks a lot for your hard work in bringing such wonderful contents. Would love to see more of it. Cheers, Shri

[@christopherhaslewood6081]

Hi This is way over the top for flying a Drone for a Hobby Is this what we have to look forward to in the UK All of this is not going to stop the Cowboy Drone flyer I think it is time to sell my Drone

[@DonJoyce]

Thank you for watching, Christopher! The regulations are generally a positive move towards safety, but a few of the rules will be unlikely to be followed by most. I suspect there will be some evolution.

[@canadianstarman9123]

This will definitely stop cowboy drone flying .

[@daryllarsen8858]

@Proton1 No. The drone laws themselves have been in development for years. In fact my understanding is they started work on them as far back as 2006. They started off being directed at commercial UAV and hobbyist use but when the mass produced consumer market started to take off around 2010 with increasingly rapid growth and a whole new plethora of emerging issues, it delayed coming up with final regulations until now. Even now, it's still being worked on in some areas. And no doubt, as with any government regulations, tweaks and changes will be an ongoing thing.

[@FotomanCalgary]

wrote mine the other day no studying, and got a 47%. I don't need it as I have a 249gram drone, but I want it just in case someone complains and the police come around (people complain about anything nowadays). The wording of some of the questions seem to pertain to an actual aircraft at times, and the questioning reminds me of Microsoft exams lol Going to study your pdf and re-take. :)

[@4dino]

Hi Don, good video. But am I the only one who thinks the Liberals and their bureaucrats are out of touch with reality. Half the questions have nothing to do with drones or drone safety. I'm not opposed to drone safety, testing for a License, and registering my drone. At least all my boater exam questions pertained to boating. I already know who I'm not voting for this fall.

[@DonJoyce]

Thanks, 4dino! I think you'll find you are not alone. That said, the political party of the day probably had little influence on the regulations. I suggest we direct constructive suggestions towards Transport Canada and see if anything evolves.

[@AramAzhari]

@@DonJoyce what really concerns me is how unorganized the study materials are. There aren't any governmental approved web sites or easy to use references. I'm comparing to the rules in Australlia of course, similar things and you have to pay annually for the registration. Furthermore they're also updating things so that you'd have to be accredited: www.casa.gov.au/about-us/news-article/drone-registration-and-accreditation-scheme-update www.casa.gov.au/aircraft/landing-page/flying-drones-australia

[@DonJoyce]

Thanks, Aram. Yes, I believe it is a combination of timing (they were pressed to get it out after Gatwick) and budget. What actually worries me more is that there are actually factual errors on the TC Drone Safety site. If you read their information about aerodromes and airports, it is wrong! Scary! (And yes, I have let them know in a constructive manner.)

[@Martin40819]

It has nothing to do with any political party... Nice try pegging this one on the Liberals.

[@manderssteve]

I was seriously thinking of getting a good drone. I periodically charter a plane for aerial photography, and I do a lot of wilderness photography too. However, it seems that Algonquin Provincial Park, and all other parks, the Rideau Canal, Lemone Point and so on, are all out of bounds. If most of the places I am interested in are out of bounds, I guess it is not the machine for me.

[@ministryofadventure]

Amazing resource! Thanks for putting this together!!

[@DonJoyce]

Glad you found it helpful!

[@darringallant]

Nice guide, much appreciated thanks! One correction in regards to the maximum altitude rules in particular above buildings @ 10:45. The rule is you are allowed to fly up to 100 feet above any building or structure itself, not the ground. E.g. if you were approaching a 500' building you could legally rise to 600' to go over it. With the important caveat that you have to be within 200' horizontally of said building when you do so. 901.25 (1)(b) 100 feet (30 m) above any building or structure, if the aircraft is being operated at a distance of less than 200 feet (61 m), measured horizontally, from the building or structure. The FAA in the U.S. has something similar in their rules.

[@DonJoyce]

Thanks, Darrin! Yes, you are correct about the altitude over buildings.

[@AnthonyGugliotta]

I decided to take the exam on a whim. I only watched your video, and pulled up all the resources you recommended. Passed with an 88%

[@DonJoyce]

Hey, congratulations on passing your exam, Anthony! Safe and happy flying!

[@seongilpark2501]

Is basic test hard because I'm going to take it today and I'm kind of nervous

[@DonJoyce]

Lol. You'll do fine if you are reasonably well prepared and have the documents I recommend open. Good luck!

[@seongilpark2501]

Thanks

[@AlliandWill]

Great video! I recently published one as well for my thoughts with some info shared on the new laws coming. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with others! I have my basic certificate, going to try the advanced in a couple days after reviewing some more info :)

[@DonJoyce]

Thanks for watching and commenting! Congrats on passing your exam!

[@manicmagic]

Are you a teacher good vid well explaind and very informitive even for an ozzy.. oh and all this with out taking ya self too siriously.. 😁

[@DonJoyce]

Ha ha! Thanks for watching and commenting, Manic! I'm actually an engineer, but do a fair bit of training and presenting in my work life. And never take myself seriously!

[@kay__519]

barely passed 65% lol got all radio questions wrong

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing! Better stay off the radio! Btw, a lot of radio info is in the AIM document.

[@TheKazooSutra]

Thanks, Don. 88% first try after watching your video and taking notes. I don't think I would have done it without you helping me get over the fear of the unknown and to focus.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam! Safe and happy flying!

[@waynetri1]

Thanks so much Don!

[@DonJoyce]

You are very welcome, Wayne!

[@JMatthewlive]

Love the channel 85% Looking forward to get my advanced operations next. Thank you 🙏🏾

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam! Glad to hear that my videos were helpful! Best wishes for your Advanced...be sure to download my Training Roadmap.

[@exkaliburdigital]

Thank you for the guides and for your involvement with the DPAC. Followed your guides, Joined and took the DPAC safety course. Helped me breeze through the basic pilot test.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulation on passing your exam! Great to hear my material and the DPAC Safety Course helped you.

[@SteveCoutts]

What an excellent guide Don! Thank you so much for putting this together! Very helpful. 👍

[@DonJoyce]

Thanks, Steve! Glad you found it useful!

[@SteveCoutts]

@@DonJoyce Would you mind if I included the link to your video and possibly a short clip in a video on my channel? Your video was very helpful to me and I want to pass it along to my viewers. Thanks.

[@DonJoyce]

Hi Steve! Absolutely you can include/provide a link to my video and use a short clip! Thanks in advance for the endorsement.

[@SteveCoutts]

@@DonJoyce Thanks! Should have the video up next week.

[@adamsroy2702]

HI Don I had to share this with you I passed my basic exam just now wow wow wow wow wow wow I just can't believe it i thought while i was doing it that i was going to fail but i passed gat 2 questions wrong

[@elimiller-buza549]

Its much easier than he makes it out to be if you have good google skills since it is open book

[@DonJoyce]

Well, it depends upon the mix of questions you get. For example, there are many human factors questions based on material that is not available on line.

[@elimiller-buza549]

@@DonJoyce true I got at least half physics questions.

[@ricardoabh3242]

Canada sometimes does not make sense

[@DonJoyce]

LOL...too true!

[@petrov3000]

Nice video, thanks very much for putting it out! One thing that really stuck out to me as a pilot is I suggest not to teach your confusion with regard to the inclusion of certain topics so much. Of course there is good reason to make sure people know what zulu time is (all weather charts/observations use it, for example), what kind of weather certain clouds bring, how an airfoil works. This is a license that brings people to the before, largely isolated realm of general and commercial aviation. Also, remember that drones are relatively new. This is one of the first iterations of the regulations and exams. One excellent homework project or video topic is to explore why TC would include these topics.

[@DonJoyce]

Transport Canada originally included these topics for two reasons: First, it was fairly easy to copy from manned aircraft pilot exam material, rather than start from scratch. Second, they were guided (led by the nose?) by ground school operators who were motivated on cashing in on selling training material, regardless of its relevance to drone pilots. They are STILL putting out material about how to read paper maps!!

[@IScreamer]

An excellent presentation Don and thank you! Your video clearly demonstrates the scope of preparation required for the exam. I have a lot of reading to do! One question I have is that, when presented with the multiple choice questions, is it possible to skip questions and move on to others, before going back to the skipped ones?

[@DonJoyce]

Hi Iscreamer! Thanks for watching and commenting! Yes, I had intended to comment on the excellent job they did on the navigation during the exam...but forgot! You have complete freedom to skip questions and go back and hit them later. Also full ability to review any/all questions before submitting. I'm not certain, but I think they even show unanswered questions in a different colour on the navigation area.

[@DylanMTL]

Obtained by Basic Operations Certificate. Thanks Don for all the useful content you put out there. This is the ONE STOP to get everything you need to know with regards to drone regulations, news in Canada ! Grateful for you my friend. Keep on being great !

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam, Dylan! Safe and happy flying!

[@richardtremblay7646]

Types of flight conditions requiringAdvanced Operations certification 901.62 ??? Not sure on this one Ok

[@DonJoyce]

Why...?

[@alexyauffeves3840]

Step 1: Discover I need to register a drone if I get one. "Meh, that's not a big deal" Step 2: Buy the Mavic Air Step 3: Figure out I need to pass a test Step 4: Realize how complicated the test is. Rebellion. Depression. Step 5: Find your video. Step 6: Study hard and take a lot of notes from all the references. (Maybe 8 to 10 hours total) Watch aeronautical basics youtube videos. (As well as meteorology, flight maps reading videos, etc...) Step 7 : Pass the test two hours ago with 94%. Thanks!!

[@DonJoyce]

Wow! Congratulations on your great mark! Glad I was able to help you, and also glad you skipped the Denial and Anger steps in your journey! LOL Have fun flying your Mavic Air...I'm sure you'll enjoy it!

[@seanwilton3664]

Good going on the pass.. but doing that much work to fly a drone? Fuck this licence thing is stupid AF.

[@denniswiebe3351]

Hi Don! I just got my Basic Certificate! Thanks for putting this together. It was very helpful.

[@DonJoyce]

Glad it was helpful!

[@gettingoffthecouchnow]

Great video. I fly a drone under 250 grams but am thinking of taking the basic test. I had a question regarding video from drones. I know in the US that if you have drone footage and you put it on KZbin you are not allowed to be monetized unless you have a commercial licence. Do you know if the same rule applies in Canada wether you are flying a drone under 250 grams or over. Thanks

[@DonJoyce]

Thank you! Canadian rules are different! Here's your answer: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kF6tYX13qrimqqM

[@evilsonic69]

About the "must have permission" to fly in controlled airspace for Advanced Certified pilots. I totally get it, but I was wondering how this permission is granted. Who should the RPAS pilot contact in such scenario? Oh, amazing video, btw Don! Really helpful

[@DonJoyce]

That's a great question, dani_ca! It depends a bit depending upon the kind of airspace, but in general you contact the operator of the facility 'owning' the airspace. The operator and their contact number for aerodromes is listed in the Canada Flight Supplement (CFS) in the facility's OPR section. Restricted areas (eg around a prison) have their contact info in the DAH. Or, if you use the Drone Pilot Canada app, just click on the area and it will provide this information instantly. You may also want to watch my Aerodromes Explained video for further information: kzbin.info/www/bejne/e4aUg52Dgq2agtk

[@johnos3853]

I literally just YOLO’ed the test with some google and no studying and scored 77%

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing the exam, John! Safe and happy flying!

[@peter_marcelli]

Thanks for your help Don! Passed the exam with 82% on the first go and I am not a book smart guy by any means. Your guidance helped point me in the right direction. The exam was interesting. About a 1/3 were common sense, 1/3 were based on the material you spoke of, but then they threw these trick, very tech questions which left me searching on the fly. Advice to anyone writing, expect the unexpected. If you have the material Don suggests in front of you and you know where to find answers about general aviation then you're good! Best of luck to everyone out there. Now to prepare for the advance exam! 🤟🏼

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam! Glad to hear my material helped! Good luck with your Advanced!!!

[@-nsasmr-]

if u fail do u pay again

[@DonJoyce]

Yes, you pay $10 for every attempt.

[@Eth12]

Thanks a-lot! I managed to get a 87% on my test with minimal studying. Your video seriously - helped me! Defiantly earned a sub!

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam, Eth! Safe and happy flying!

[@SSPGaming]

Brother thank you so much, got my basic operations in a day because of you, and looking forward to going for my advanced soon. Much love from Toronto.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam!! Safe and happy flying! Please consider joining DPAC at DronePilotAssociationOfCanada.com

[@thinkthicc3770]

I just came here to say I passed!!! I had my YYAAYY moment. Thanks Don!! I'll def be downloading your app

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing the exam! And thank you for taking the time to come back to share your good news! You'll love the app...and be sure to watch the new Drone Pilot Canada Tutorials playlist (with a few more to come): kzbin.info/aero/PLOooCCedWECU9jYxkHyaqtvCkrAyhYpB1

[@kozyboat2361]

Thankyou so Much! I did watch your video with only minimal skipping (sorry)... PASSED 80%! 20 minutes study time (watching most your video, then preloading the right webpages), lets fly! But I must say I used ALL 90 Minutes.. and was sweating the last 10 minutes to finish.. Google had to have a nap when I logged out.

[@DonJoyce]

Lol...congratulations on passing your exam!

[@peej7962]

Hello Don! I just took the exam and passed with 80%. So thank YOU for creating this study guide along with your other informative videos!

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam! Safe and happy flying!

[@TheBootstrappedFounder]

Passed the test with flying colors thanks to your amazing information here. Thank you so much for putting all this out there. You have a fan for life :)

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam, Arvid! Safe and happy flying!

[@srijithboltz1863]

Thank you for this video. I just got my pilot certificate, I scored 94% on my very first attempt. Knowing what to expect in the exam actually helped me get over my reluctance to take this exam. Cheers Don

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam!! Safe and happy flying! I'm glad my video helped you take the plunge!

[@LynxGenisys]

And success! 1st try, 94% Thank you soo much for the time and effort you put into this very thorough guide! ❤❤

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam!! Safe and happy flying!

[@jquehe]

At 10:50 in the video you state that the maximum altitude above the GROUND is 30m (100) when within 61m (200 ft) of buildings. That is incorrect. The law states you can fly 30m (100) OVER the BUILDING or STRUCTURE when flying within 61m (200 ft) of them. "Maximum Altitude - 901.25 (1) Subject to subsection (2), no pilot shall operate a remotely piloted aircraft at an altitude greater than (a) 400 feet (122 m) AGL; or (b) 100 feet (30 m) above any building or structure, if the aircraft is being operated at a distance of less than 200 feet (61 m), measured horizontally, from the building or structure."

[@DonJoyce]

That is correct John. I put a correction link in the video AND in the description. Then published a full explanation in 'How High Can You Fly' here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioeqhIJmjrCCack

[@chosenideahandle]

I'm a bit disappointed. Not for myself but my squirrel, who wanted a ride on my drone.

[@DonJoyce]

Thanks for the laugh! I needed that!

[@primal_aperture_photo]

Hi Don...Thanks so much for your study guide video, it was very helpful and even tho the transport canada site screwed around with my 90 minutes during my test by slowing to a crawl and giving me "bad gateway" error message as it ate away at my time...I PASSED! with "flying" colors might I add!! HaHaHa!!! Thanks Don!

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam! Safe and happy flying!

[@brianmorris1760]

Thanks Don. I followed your Training Roadmap and had my YAY moment. BUT.......the test was difficult. I completed it will within the required time limit. I should have considered the $29 study guide. But my Scottish ancestry is a very strong influencing factor.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing the exam, Brian! Yes, the questions can be surprisingly tricky, and sometimes pointless or irritating! LOL...Scottish...got it!

[@gordonou7065]

AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.... Why? Just why? It’s a drone not a plane. My drone is a paper weight currently. Also can you provide example of questions I may be asked?

[@DonJoyce]

I understand your dismay, Gordon! The scope of knowledge for these exams is pretty ridiculous. That said, my videos provide you plenty of resource material, and taking the exam is only $10...with lots of time to look things up. Go for it!

[@canadagoose27]

Watched your videos and did approx 4 - 6 hours studying, had the reference docs open as well as using Google and passed the exam first time with 88%. Thanks Don.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam! I'm glad to hear my material helped! Safe and happy flying!

[@elisolutions]

Just finished the basic test yesterday and thanks to your tips it was a breeze. I'm now looking at the advanced series.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam, Eli! Safe and happy flying. I have Playlists for the Advanced certification, and my Training Roadmap helps guide the way: www.pocketwatchpurveyor.com/collections/drone-study-guides/products/dons-rpas-training-roadmap

[@RichGallant]

Thanks for all your hard work putting this together Don, 1st try 85% (basic). Some weird questions but watching your videos made it very straight forward.

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam, Rich! Safe and happy flying!

[@Guripb17]

Thanks for your efforts and sharing your knowledge . I just passed my basic exam. 👍🏻

[@DonJoyce]

Congratulations on passing your exam! Safe and happy flying!

[@juliusfischer8136]

Hey Don, I am from Germany and will be visiting my exchange student in the Kamloops area this September. I have a DJI 2 SE drone, which is below 250g and was wondering what kind of certification I really need to fly my drone there. Thank you very much! Regards, Julius.

[@DonJoyce]

Hi Julius! You've come to the right place! The good news is that you don't need any level of certification or registration to fly a sub250g drone in Canada, even as a foreign visitor. There are a few important restrictions in terms of where you fly, and these are covered in this video for the Mini 2: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gWirY4eperSfg9k . I also offer a similar video for the Mini 3, in case you upgrade before September comes around: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mpSTfI2ih9KArtE . Enjoy your visit!!

[@tompoolephotography]

Thanks Don! you the man! I Purchased your advanced study guide, attempted the advanced test and failed, It's difficult - but then took my Basic and passed - . Got more work to do before I tackle the advanced again. - Few questions I can't find the answers to - Just wondering if anyone knows if you can fly your Drone for commercial (videography) work on a Basic Pilot certificate as long as I stick to the Basic requirments, e.g 30 metres horizontally away from people. Are you able to fly closer to people if they are part of your Crew?

[@DonJoyce]

Hey, thanks Tom!! The new regulations make no distinction between commercial or recreational flying, so YES, you can absolutely do commercial drone videography with a Basic Pilot Certificate, assuming you stick to the Basic requirements.

[@likkitongue]

I think the requirements over buildings means that you can take your drone no more than 30m higher than the building. Example: If the building you are flying over is 70m tall, you can take your drone up to 30m above that height (100m), as long as you are within 61m of the building horizontally.

[@DonJoyce]

As noted in the video description, I have issued a correction, and better wording for that rule: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioeqhIJmjrCCack