Level 1 Complex Operations (L1CO): What You Need to Know to Conduct Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) Drone Operations in Canada
- Date 15/07/2025
Introduction
On November 4, 2025, Canadian drone regulations were updated with the introduction of the Level 1 Complex Operations (L1CO) certificate. This certificate allows pilots to conduct Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations in low-risk environments.
With the L1CO certificate, whether you are a passionate recreational pilot or a drone professional, you can:
- Carry out BVLOS drone flights
- Access larger and more isolated areas
- Expand your operational possibilities if you work in fields such as environment, agriculture, inspection, or surveillance
In this article, we’ll explain:
What Does the L1CO Certificate Allow?
The Level 1 Complex Operations (L1CO) certificate authorizes you to conduct Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations, provided that certain criteria are met.
L1CO operations must take place:
- In uncontrolled airspace
- Away from aerodromes
- In sparsely populated areas
👉 Unlike the Basic and Advanced certificates, the L1CO certificate allows BVLOS flights, opening the door to new applications.
Who Can Obtain the L1CO Certificate?
The L1CO certificate is available to anyone 18 years of age or older, whether you fly a drone recreationally or professionally. Here’s how to obtain this certificate depending on your profile.
👤 Profile 1 — You’re starting from scratch (or you only have a Basic certificate)
In this case, you’ll need to complete all certification steps in the following order:
- Complete a 20-hour instructor-led theory course
- Pass Transport Canada’s Advanced Exam (theory test)
- Pass Transport Canada’s Level 1 Complex (theory test)
- Pass the L1CO Flight Review (practical test)
At Drone Academie, our L1CO Professional Bundle includes all the essential steps to guide you to certification:
- 20-hour instructor-led theory course (at your own pace)
- Preparation for both theory exams (Advanced and L1CO)
- Theory and practical preparation for the L1CO Flight Review
- The L1CO Flight Review itself
👉 In addition to covering every step required to obtain the L1CO certificate, this package also gives you access to all our specialization courses (aerial imaging, photogrammetry, thermography) so you can stand out in high-demand sectors.
👤 Profile 2 — You Already Have Your Advanced Certificate
Good news: you’ve already completed part of the process. Only 3 steps remain to obtain your L1CO certificate:
- Complete a 20-hour instructor-led theory course
- Pass Transport Canada’s Level 1 Complex Exam
- Pass the L1CO Flight Review
What Our L1CO Program Includes
Here’s what we offer to help you succeed at every step:
🎓 20-Hour Theory Course
- Comprehensive online training at your own pace
- Personalized support from a qualified instructor
- Preparation for Transport Canada’s Advanced and Level 1 Complex theory exams
- Fully compliant with Transport Canada requirements
🛩️ Practical Training
- Adapted for all skill levels
- Learn to fly a drone in a complex operation context
- Preparation specifically for the L1CO Flight Review
✈️ L1CO Flight Review
- Mandatory practical exam
- Assesses your ability to plan and execute a flight in an L1CO context
- Included with your booking: a free online preparation module
Summary: Why Consider the L1CO Certificate Now?
The L1CO certificate gives you access to a whole new category of operations, previously reserved for highly regulated projects. Whether you fly for passion or professional assignments, this certificate allows you to:
✅ Conduct Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations
✅ Access larger and more isolated areas
✅ Carry out larger-scale missions
✅ Gain a competitive edge in the market
Ready to Take Action?
At Drone Académie, we guide you through every step, tailored to your skill level.
🎯 Whether you’re a beginner or already hold an Advanced certificate, we have the right program to meet your needs.
