Transport Canada CPL (CPAER) Exam Prep
The Transport Canada CPL (CPAER) exam has 100 questions, a 3.5 hours time limit and a 60% pass mark. This guide covers the topics it tests, study tips from a former airline pilot, a week-by-week plan.
The exam at a glance
100
Questions
60%
Pass mark
3.5 hours
Time limit
Cost
CAD $100
Prerequisites
Valid PPL, 200 hours total time, ground school or instructor recommendation
About the CPAER exam
The Transport Canada Commercial Pilot Written Exam covers advanced aeronautics and commercial aviation regulations for Canada. Required for CPL, it emphasizes commercial operations, multi-engine knowledge, and Canadian-specific operational requirements.
Topics Covered
Expert Study Tips
CPL theory builds heavily on PPL — review PPL material first
Focus on CARs Part VII — commercial air services
Multi-engine aerodynamics and VMC are critical topics
Canadian CPL allows immediate commercial operations — know the privileges
Study advanced weather interpretation — significant weather charts, GFA
Night flying regulations and operations are tested more heavily than at PPL
Suggested Study Timeline
Weeks 1-3
Systematic study of all exam topics, take notes and create summaries
Weeks 4-6
Deep dive into complex topics, work through practice problems
Weeks 7-9
Full practice exams, identify and address knowledge gaps
Weeks 10-11
Targeted review of weak areas, practice under timed conditions
Week 12
Final review and exam day
Recommended Resources
- Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) Parts IV and VII
- Transport Canada Flight Training Manual (TP 1102)
- Transport Canada CPL Study Guide (TP 12881)
- From the Ground Up (advanced chapters)
More practice by subject
Transport Canada CPL (CPAER): FAQ
How many questions are on the Transport Canada CPL (CPAER) exam?
The Transport Canada CPL (CPAER) exam has 100 questions. You have 3.5 hours and need 60% or higher to pass.
What are the prerequisites for the Transport Canada CPL (CPAER) exam?
Valid PPL, 200 hours total time, ground school or instructor recommendation
How much does the Transport Canada CPL (CPAER) exam cost?
The Transport Canada CPL (CPAER) exam costs CAD $100. This is the testing fee only and does not include study materials or training courses.
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Written and reviewed by Renzo Madueño
Former Airbus A320 First Officer (Avianca), FAA commercial pilot · Founder, Rotate Pilot
Exam formats, fees and pass rates on this page come from the authority's published sources where a source is linked; the study advice comes from preparing for these tests and flying the line. Rules and formats change, so if something here is out of date, tell us and we fix it.
Last reviewed . Rotate Pilot is independent and not affiliated with the FAA, PSI or any aviation authority.