Recreational Pilot Permit

The Recreational Pilot Permit (RPP) course is intended for the person who does not need, or perhaps does not want, the privileges of the Private Pilot Licence. The Recreational Permit allows a person to fly single-engine aeroplanes with a maximum of four seats, accompanied by one other person, in daylight visual conditions.

The course consist of a minimum of 25 hours, of which 5 must be solo. The applicant is required to demonstrate the necessary level of skill and ability by passing a flight test given by a Transport Canada examiner, or a person designated by them. The flight test requirements and standards are as specified in the Flight Test Guide.

A formal ground school is not required, however, candidates must pass an examination set by Transport Canada in order to meet the knowledge requirement. This exam consist of 80 questions, and the pass mark is 60%. The syllabus and course content are specified in the Study and Reference Guide. All Recreational Permit students are welcome to join the Private Pilot ground school.

Flying training can begin at any age, but the student must be 14 years of age before they can be issued a Student Pilot Permit (SPP), enabling them to fly solo, and 16 years before the Recreational Pilot Permit can be earned.

The required medical standard can be met by having the student's doctor co-sign a declaration regarding the state of the student's health. An examination by a Designated Medical Examiner is not required.

The following cost breakdown has been provided as an estimate for the Recreational Pilot Permit.

Rather than the minimum 25 hrs required, our cost estimate is based on a more realistic 35 hrs completion time. As well, there are no extra hidden costs. The estimated total below includes everything you will need for your Recreational Pilot Permit.