RPAS operator certificate (RPOC) and the Level 1 Complex pilot certificate

Level 1 Complex operations need two certificates: one for the organization that runs the operation, and one for the pilot at the controls.

The RPAS operator certificate (RPOC)

Under CARs 901.88, nobody may operate under Division VI unless they are an RPAS operator, or an employee, agent or representative of one, and they follow the conditions of its certificate.

An RPOC can be held by an individual pilot, a business or an organization. Before applying through the Drone Management Portal, you must:

• appoint an accountable executive,
• identify a person responsible for maintenance,
• implement a training program, and
• implement standard operating procedures for flight.

AC 901-002 explains how to build the manual. After the certificate is issued, the accountable executive keeps the organization adequate, runs the competency training program, and makes sure the aircraft are properly equipped and maintained according to the manufacturer's instructions.

The pilot certificate

You must be at least 18 years old. The steps are:

1. Pass the Advanced online exam.
2. Complete at least 20 hours of ground school at a flight school.
3. Pass the Level 1 Complex online exam.
4. Pass a Level 1 Complex flight review.
5. Apply through the Drone Management Portal.

The exam

• 50 multiple-choice questions in 90 minutes.
• Pass mark 80%.
• Taken online in the Drone Management Portal.
• After a fail, wait 24 hours; there is no limit on attempts.

The questions are based on TP 15530, the knowledge requirements for Level 1 Complex pilots. TP 15530 lists topics, not answers, so ground school and practice questions fill in the detail.

Staying current

Within the 24 months before each flight you must have been issued the certificate, passed a pilot exam (basic, advanced or Level 1 Complex), or completed recurrent training. Transport Canada's self-paced recency program counts; Level 1 Complex pilots also answer questions 31 to 35, and keep the completed program for 24 months.

During the flight, keep your certificate, proof of registration and proof of recency easily accessible.