Are you an avid drone enthusiast in Canada? Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or just starting your journey in the world of drones, it’s essential to be aware of the regulations governing drone ownership and operation in the country.
Since June 1, 2019, Transport Canada has implemented mandatory drone registration to ensure safe and responsible drone flying. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the process of registering your drone in Canada, including important details and benefits of compliance.
Why Register Your Drone
First and foremost, let’s address the “why” behind drone registration. Transport Canada has set this requirement in place to promote safety in the skies. Registering your drone allows authorities to identify your drone and its owner in case of accidents, lost drones, or other safety-related issues. It also ensures that drone pilots are held accountable for their actions, which ultimately benefits everyone involved in the aviation community.
Before you begin the registration process, make sure you have the following information and documents ready:
1. Drone Information: You’ll need details such as the purchase date (if applicable), make, model, serial number, weight, and type of your drone. This information is crucial for the registration process.
2. Payment: A fee of $5 is required for drone registration. You can use Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Interac card for payment.
3. Secure Sign-In: To access the Drone Management Portal, you’ll need to choose one of the following secure sign-in options:
Now, let’s dive into the steps to register your drone.
- Visit the Drone Management Portal: Start by visiting the official Transport Canada Drone Management Portal (make sure it’s the official government website to avoid scams).
- Log In or Create an Account: If you already have a GCKey or online banking login, use it to sign in. Otherwise, follow the prompts to create an account.
- Enter Drone Information: Provide all the necessary information about your drone, including its make, model, serial number, weight, and type. Ensure accuracy, as this information will be used for identification.
- Payment: Pay the $5 registration fee using your preferred payment method.
- Confirmation: Once you’ve completed the registration process and payment, you’ll receive a confirmation of your registration. This confirmation includes your unique registration number.
- Mark Your Drone: Before you take your drone for a flight, ensure it is marked with the registration number as required by regulations. Failure to do so may result in fines.
Registering your drone in Canada offers several benefits:
- Recovery Assistance: In case you lose your drone, having it registered may facilitate its return if someone finds it.
- Safety Notifications: If there is a manufacturer’s recall or safety-related information concerning your drone, Transport Canada can notify you promptly.
- Compliance and Avoiding Penalties: Registering your drone helps you stay compliant with the law. Flying an unregistered drone may result in fines of up to $1,000 for individuals and $5,000 for corporations.
Advanced Operations
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For pilots planning to conduct advanced drone operations, it’s essential to ensure that your drone is approved for such activities. While you can register your drone, the registration certificate may not initially contain the drone safety assurance declaration. This declaration is provided by the manufacturer and specifies the advanced operations your drone is approved for.
Keep an eye on your email because Transport Canada will send you an email notification once the manufacturer submits their declaration, clarifying the advanced operations your drone can undertake.
In the meantime, you are allowed to fly your drone for basic operations, ensuring you adhere to safety guidelines and regulations.
In conclusion, registering your drone in Canada is a straightforward process that contributes to the safety and accountability of the drone community. By complying with these regulations, you can enjoy the thrill of drone flying while respecting the rules that protect both your interests and those of the wider public. Happy flying! At AUAV, we offer both basic drone training course and advanced training course to help get pilot certification. Join us!