If you’re aiming to fly Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) in Canada after November 4, 2025 (the full rollout date), there are rules you will need to comply with. They are built around three pillars: Pilot, Product, and Procedures. These are a certification checklist for anyone hoping to fly further, smarter, and legally. Ignore them, and you’ll be grounded.

Let’s break them down, so you know exactly what’s expected of you, so you can start preparing now.

PILOT: Training Isn’t Optional Anymore

To fly BVLOS under Canada’s new rules, you’ll need more than just a license.

You must earn a Level 1 Complex Operations certificate.

That means:

  • Mandatory RPAS training (aka ground school)
  • An online multiple-choice exam (opens April 1st)
  • An in-person flight review

And no, your Advanced Certificate won’t cut it for full BVLOS.

But if you already have one, good news: You’ll automatically get new privileges. These include Extended Visual Line of Sight (EVLOS), sheltered operations, and flying medium-sized drones up to 150kg.

Oh, and Visual Observers? They only need a Basic Certificate now. Not Advanced.

So yes—Transport Canada is tightening rules but also clearing some unnecessary red tape.

Related Reading: How to Be an Effective Visual Observer for Drone Missions

PRODUCT: Your Drone Needs to Be PVD-Ready

BVLOS isn’t a free-for-all. Your drone must be Pre-Validated Declaration (PVD) approved.

This is a two-step process:

  1. The manufacturer submits a compliance plan to meet Standard 922.
  2. Transport Canada reviews and approves it. Only then can the drone be declared BVLOS-ready.

Flying without a PVD-compliant drone, don’t bother applying.

But this system exists for a reason. Previously, 26 self-declared drones were invalidated and 3 withdrawn. The abuse was real. From now on, manufacturers must also submit annual safety reports, flight-hour estimates, and design change disclosures.

Even minor malfunctions must be tracked and reported through service difficulty reports. This level of oversight protects you, your drone, and anyone beneath your flight path.

PROCEDURES: Your SOPs Need SOPs

It’s not enough to fly well. You need to prove that you operate well.

To qualify for BVLOS:

  • Appoint an accountable executive.
  • Create a training program for your crew.
  • Designate a maintenance lead.
  • Implement standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Build a risk management plan.

Transport Canada isn’t just looking for compliance. They want consistency.

And you’ll only be allowed to fly BVLOS in uncontrolled airspace over unpopulated or sparsely populated areas (under 25 people/km²).

Want to fly near cities or events? You’re not eligible yet. BVLOS in urban zones is still on pause.

Use Stats Canada maps or the Drone Site Selection Tool to pick valid locations. Better yet? Survey your site to back up your flight plan.

Also:

  • Stay below 120 meters.
  • Keep 3 miles of ground visibility.
  • Avoid clouds.

A Few Stats to Keep in Mind

  • 335 BVLOS SFOCs were issued prior to the new rules. Those shaped this framework.
  • Over 16,000 Advanced Pilot Certificate holders will receive expanded privileges.
  • Fines for breaking rules have tripled: Up to $3,000 for individuals and $15,000 for corporations.
  • PVD compliance will apply to all drones up to 150kg used for BVLOS.

Related Reading: Pay to Play? Guide to Canada’s 2025 Drone Fees (And Why It’s Not All Bad)

FAQs on Cananda BVLOS Flights 

  • Do I need a new certificate if I already hold an Advanced Pilot Certificate?

No, not for some operations. You automatically gain new privileges like EVLOS and medium drone use.

  • Can I fly BVLOS in urban areas?

No, not yet. BVLOS flights are only allowed in uncontrolled, rural, or sparsely populated areas.

  • How do I know if my drone is BVLOS compliant?

It must have a Pre-Validated Declaration. Check with your drone’s manufacturer.

  • Is the Level 1 Complex exam available now?

Yes, starting April 1st, 2025. It includes ground training, an online test, and flight review.

  • Can microdrones be flown at events without extra paperwork?

No, they now need an SFOC for any advertised event, no matter the drone size.

  • What’s the fine if I break these rules?

Up to $3,000 for individuals and $15,000 for corporations. No more warnings.

  • How much will this cost me?

Expect $10 for drone registration, $125 for the complex exam, and up to $475 for high-complexity SFOCs.

  • Can my drone fly BVLOS if it weighs more than 25kg?

Yes, if it meets all other product and procedure requirements under the new rules.

  • What maps can I use to check population density?

Use Statistics Canada population maps or the NRC Drone Site Selection Tool.

  • Is there any leeway if I fail to meet these Canada BVLOS requirements by November?

Nope. Compliance is mandatory by November 4, 2025. Prep starts now.