RPAS Operator Certificate (RPOC) - section overview

In plain language

This section outlines the upcoming fee changes for RPAS Operator Certificates (RPOC), Special Flight Operations Certificates (SFOC-RPAS), and drone registration in Canada, effective in 2025, and defines key operational terms.

Requirement as structured

This section outlines the upcoming fee changes for RPAS Operator Certificates (RPOC), Special Flight Operations Certificates (SFOC-RPAS), and drone registration in Canada, effective in 2025, and defines key operational terms.

Original regulatory text

$125 As of November 4, 2025, anyone applying for an SFOC-RPAS will need to pay a fee, except for government organizations involved with emergency response. These operations include higher altitude flights, operations at an advertised event, and flying a drone that weighs more than 150 kg. Service New Fee SFOC – Very Low complexity $20 SFOC – Low complexity $75 SFOC – Medium complexity $900 SFOC – High Complexity $2,000 As of April 1, 2025, drone registration fees will increase to $10. Useful terms to know Populated area means an area with more than five people per square kilometre. Sparsely populated area means an area with more than 5 but not more than 25 people per square kilometre. Visual Observer (VO) means a crew member who is trained to assist the pilot in ensuring the safe conduct of a flight. Advertised event means an outdoor event that is advertised to the public, like a concert, festival, market or sporting event.

Applies when

country

Canada

regulatory category

General