Transport Canada PPL (PPAER) Exam Prep
The Transport Canada PPL (PPAER) exam has 100 questions, a 3 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 hours
Time limit
Cost
CAD $100
Prerequisites
Student pilot permit, valid medical certificate, ground school or instructor recommendation
About the PPAER exam
The Transport Canada Private Pilot Written Exam is required for PPL in Canada. With 100 questions and a 60% pass mark, it covers standard aeronautical knowledge with Canadian-specific regulations and emphasis on cold weather operations.
Topics Covered
Expert Study Tips
Transport Canada uses a 60% pass mark — the lowest of major authorities
Study Canadian-specific weather: icing, cold weather ops, winter flying
CARs have unique provisions for float planes and bush flying
Northern operations (magnetic compass unreliability, winter survival) are tested
The PPAER is considered moderately difficult with 100 questions
Use Transport Canada study guides — they map directly to exam questions
Suggested Study Timeline
Weeks 1-2
Read through all study materials and take notes on key concepts
Weeks 3-4
Focus on weak areas identified from initial study, create flashcards
Weeks 5-6
Take full-length practice tests, review all incorrect answers
Week 7
Final review of trouble areas, take 2-3 practice exams scoring 85%+
Week 8
Light review only, schedule and take the exam
Recommended Resources
- Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs)
- Transport Canada Flight Training Manual (TP 1102)
- From the Ground Up (Canadian pilot bible)
- Transport Canada Study and Reference Guide (TP 12880)
More practice by subject
Transport Canada PPL (PPAER): FAQ
How many questions are on the Transport Canada PPL (PPAER) exam?
The Transport Canada PPL (PPAER) exam has 100 questions. You have 3 hours and need 60% or higher to pass.
What are the prerequisites for the Transport Canada PPL (PPAER) exam?
Student pilot permit, valid medical certificate, ground school or instructor recommendation
How much does the Transport Canada PPL (PPAER) exam cost?
The Transport Canada PPL (PPAER) 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.