Air traffic controller licence

About

Air traffic controllers keep aircraft safely apart in the air and on the ground. They guide planes during takeoff, landing, and flight. The work calls for fast thinking, clear speech, and steady focus under pressure.

In Canada, you cannot control air traffic without a Transport Canada licence. Most people earn it by being hired and trained by NAV CANADA, which provides air traffic control services across the country. The licence is issued nationally, so it applies in every province and territory. It opens the door to roles such as tower controller, terminal radar controller, approach departure controller, and en route controller.

How to get it

1. Meet the basic requirements
   You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, finish high school, and be able to speak and understand English clearly. You also need to pass a medical exam and a security check.
2. Apply to NAV CANADA
   NAV CANADA runs the hiring and training program for new controllers. Applicants go through a selection process that includes aptitude testing, interviews, and screening.
3. Complete classroom training
   Selected candidates attend a training course on air traffic rules, procedures, weather, navigation, and phraseology. Training takes many months and includes written tests and simulator exercises.
4. Train on the job
   After the classroom portion, you practise at a real facility under the close watch of a trained controller. You build skill and confidence before working on your own.
5. Earn your licence
   Once you meet the training and assessment standards, Transport Canada issues your air traffic controller licence. You then work as a controller at your assigned location.

The exam

Training includes written exams and practical assessments, often using simulators that copy real traffic situations. You must show that you know the rules and can apply them calmly and correctly. A medical exam is also part of keeping your licence in good standing.

Careers that mention it

Keeping it

Your licence stays valid as long as you meet Transport Canada's medical and competency requirements. You must keep your medical certificate current and stay up to date through regular checks and ongoing training at your facility.