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Canadian Aviation Regulations Practice Test (CARS)

Quick, free quiz to check your CARS knowledge for the Transport Canada AME exam. Instant results.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Sharrolynn ShipmanUpdated Aug 27, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art illustration for Canadian Aviation Regulations quiz on a teal background

Use this quiz to practice Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARS) and see where you need more study before the exam. After you finish, try a deeper Canadian Aviation Regulations practice test, sharpen theory with a ppl air law mock exam, or broaden your base with an aviation knowledge quiz.

What does CARS stand for?
Civil Aviation Rules
Canadian Aviation Regulations
Canadian Airspace Regulation
Canadian Airworthiness Requirements
CARS is the acronym for Canadian Aviation Regulations, which govern civil aviation in Canada. These regulations cover aircraft operations, maintenance, licensing, and airworthiness standards. They are published and enforced by Transport Canada.
Which body is responsible for enforcing the CARS?
Canadian Airports Council
Nav Canada
Canadian Air Line Pilots Association
Transport Canada Civil Aviation
Transport Canada Civil Aviation is the authority in charge of enforcing the Canadian Aviation Regulations. They oversee licensing, certification, and enforcement actions. Nav Canada operates air navigation services but does not enforce CARS.
What is the minimum age to hold a Private Pilot License in Canada?
14 years
18 years
16 years
17 years
Under CARS 401.05, the applicant must be at least 17 years of age to be issued a Private Pilot License. This ensures maturity and adequate training before solo flight privileges.
Under CARS, what is the minimum visibility required for VFR flight below 1000 ft AGL in uncontrolled airspace?
0.5 statute mile
3 statute miles
1 statute mile
2 statute miles
CARS 602.115 specifies minimum VFR visibility of 2 statute miles below 1000 ft AGL in Class G uncontrolled airspace. This ensures adequate visual separation from terrain and other traffic.
Which document must a pilot carry on board during flight?
Filed flight plan
Weight and balance report
Aircraft maintenance schedule
Pilot licence
CARS 401.05 requires that pilots have their valid licence on board whenever operating an aircraft. The licence demonstrates legal authority to act as pilot-in-command. Other documents may be required by regulation but the licence is mandatory.
What licence class allows a pilot to carry passengers but not for hire?
Recreational Pilot Permit
Commercial Pilot Licence
Private Pilot Licence
Air Transport Pilot Licence
A Private Pilot Licence permits the holder to carry passengers but prohibits remuneration. The Commercial Pilot Licence allows for hire and reward operations. Recreational permits have further restrictions.
What is the standard traffic pattern altitude at aerodromes unless otherwise specified?
1,000 ft AGL
2,000 ft AGL
500 ft AGL
1,500 ft AGL
Unless published otherwise, the standard traffic pattern altitude for light aircraft is 1,000 ft AGL under Transport Canada guidelines. This promotes standardized operations at uncontrolled aerodromes.
How often must a Category 3 aviation medical be renewed for a private pilot under 40?
12 months
36 months
60 months
24 months
CARS 404.03 specifies that a Category 3 medical for private pilots under age 40 is valid for 60 months. After age 40, the interval reduces to 24 months. Maintaining a valid medical is required for licence privileges.
Which fuel grade is approved for piston-engine aircraft in Canada?
Jet B
Jet A
Avgas 80
Avgas 100LL
Avgas 100LL is the most widely approved aviation gasoline for piston-engine aircraft under Canadian standards. Jet A and B are kerosene-based fuels for turbine engines. Lower octane avgas grades are not specified in CARS.
Who is authorized to perform major repairs on a Canadian-registered aircraft?
Any licensed pilot
The aircraft owner
A licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer
The pilot-in-command
CARS 605.73 requires that major repairs and alterations be performed by a qualified and licensed AME. Owner maintenance privileges are limited to minor tasks. AMEs ensure compliance with airworthiness standards.
Which rating is required to conduct VFR flights at night?
VFR Night Rating
Night Qualification
Instrument Rating
VFR Rating
CARS 421.05 specifies that a VFR Night Rating is required to fly VFR at night. This rating ensures pilots are trained in night takeoffs, landings, and flight procedures. An Instrument Rating does not by itself grant night VFR privileges.
What radio call sign suffix is used for glider tow operations?
TOWR
TOW
GTR
GLD
Advisory Circular RAC 2.11 outlines that glider towing operations use the suffix "TOW" on their callsigns. This identifies the flight to controllers and other traffic. Standardization enhances situational awareness.
What is the maximum certified takeoff weight for a normal category aeroplane?
5,700 kg
13,608 kg
22,000 lb
4,500 kg
Under CARS definitions, a normal category aeroplane has a maximum takeoff weight of 5,700 kg (12,566 lbs). Aircraft above that weight fall into the transport category. This limit is set to delineate design and certification standards.
Under CARS, what is the maximum number of occupants allowed in a private powered glider?
2
3
1
4
CARS defines a private powered glider as carrying no more than two occupants. This limit is tied to certification and performance characteristics of gliders. Exceeding occupant limits invalidates the certificate.
Which part of CARS contains the requirements for airworthiness directives?
Part VII (Commercial Air Services)
Part VI (General Operating and Flight Rules)
Part IX (Remotely Piloted Aircraft)
Part V (Airworthiness)
Part V of the Canadian Aviation Regulations covers airworthiness, including the issuance and compliance requirements for Airworthiness Directives. These directives are mandatory for continued safe operation of certified aircraft.
Under CARS, what equipment is mandatory for flights in Class A airspace?
IFR-certified equipment
Cabin pressurization
ELT
Transponder with Mode C
Class A airspace is reserved for IFR flights only under CARS Subpart 3.2. Aircraft must be equipped and certified for IFR operation before entry. Other equipment may also be required, but IFR certification is fundamental.
What altimeter setting should be used when flying below 18,000 ft ASL in Canada?
Flight information region default
The local QNH from the nearest station
QFE (airfield elevation)
29.92 inHg (standard)
Below 18,000 ft ASL in Canada, pilots must use the QNH altimeter setting of the nearest station to ensure all aircraft report altitude above mean sea level. Above that altitude, the standard 29.92 setting is used. Consistency prevents altitude misinterpretation.
What is the minimum fuel reserve required for a daytime VFR flight in Canadian airspace?
30 minutes
45 minutes
60 minutes
20 minutes
CARS 602.62 mandates a minimum fuel reserve of 30 minutes beyond the expected flight time for day VFR flights. This ensures safe diversion if needed. Night flights require a 45-minute reserve.
How is "night" defined for the purpose of qualifying for a night rating under CARS?
Sunset to sunrise
30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise
End of evening civil twilight to start of morning civil twilight
Published night times in the Canada Flight Supplement
CARS 101 defines night as the period between the end of evening civil twilight and the beginning of morning civil twilight. This definition is used for pilot certification and flight planning. It differs from simple sunset/sunrise times.
When operating under VFR in Class D airspace, what cloud clearance and visibility must you maintain?
500 ft below, 1,000 ft above, 2,000 ft horizontal, and 3 SM visibility
1,000 ft below, 1,000 ft above, 2,000 ft horizontal, and 3 SM visibility
500 ft below, 1,000 ft above, 1,000 ft horizontal, and 2 SM visibility
1,000 ft below, 500 ft above, 2,000 ft horizontal, and 3 SM visibility
CARS 602.115 specifies cloud clearances of 500 ft below, 1,000 ft above, 2,000 ft horizontal, and 3 SM visibility in Class D airspace. These minima ensure sufficient separation from clouds.
What is the minimum safe altitude over a built-up area in Canada?
1,000 ft AGL
2,000 ft AGL
500 ft AGL
1,500 ft AGL
CARS 602.14 requires a minimum of 1,000 ft AGL over populated areas to provide safe clearance and reduce noise disturbance. Over other areas, 500 ft AGL applies. These rules protect persons and property on the ground.
What is the maximum allowable deviation from approved centre of gravity limits before flight?
No deviation is allowed
+/ - 1% MAC
+/ - 2% MAC
+/ - 5% MAC
CARS 605.08 requires that the aircraft's centre of gravity remain within approved limits; any deviation invalidates the Weight and Balance report. There is no tolerance for approved limits being exceeded.
Under CARS, how many persons may act as pilot-in-command of a single-pilot certified aeroplane?
3
2
1
Unlimited
A single-pilot certification under CARS means only one qualified pilot may act as pilot-in-command. Aircraft requiring more than one pilot must hold multi-crew approval.
Which publication outlines private seaplane operating requirements under CARS?
Canadian Aviation Regulations
VFR Navigation Chart Legend
Aeronautical Information Manual
Canadian Airport Standards
Requirements for seaplane operations are contained within the Canadian Aviation Regulations, specifically in Subpart 9 of Part VII. Other publications provide guidance but the regulations are the legal requirement.
What is the main purpose of filing an operating flight plan?
To initiate search and rescue if overdue
To certify aircraft airworthiness
To log crew duty time
To record weight and balance data
Filing a flight plan ensures that search and rescue authorities are alerted if an aircraft is overdue. This enhances safety by providing last known route and estimated arrival time.
Which medical category is required for a commercial pilot licence under CARS?
Category 3
Category 4
Category 2
Category 1
A Category 1 medical certificate is required for all commercial pilot licences in Canada. This category has the most stringent health standards. A Category 3 is sufficient for private pilots only.
What is the maximum indicated airspeed below 10,000 ft ASL in Class C airspace?
300 knots
200 knots
250 knots
No limit
CARS 602.10 restricts aircraft to a maximum indicated airspeed of 250 KIAS below 10,000 ft ASL in controlled airspace. This rule aids in traffic separation and safety.
Under CARS, what does AGL stand for?
Above Ground Land
Above Ground Level
Above Ground Line
Above Ground Limit
AGL means Above Ground Level, a vertical reference used for terrain clearance and pattern altitude. Most VFR minima are specified in AGL to reflect the height above the local terrain.
During VFR flight at night, which lights must be operational on the aircraft?
Landing lights only
Position and anti-collision lights
No lights required
Cabin lights only
CARS 605.31 requires position (navigation) and anti-collision lights to be operational for night VFR. These lights ensure the aircraft is visible to other pilots. Landing lights are recommended but not mandatory.
What is the standard temperature lapse rate in the International Standard Atmosphere up to 36,000 ft?
1°C per 1,000 ft
2°C per 1,000 ft
1.98°C per 1,000 m
3°C per 1,000 ft
The ISA lapse rate up to the tropopause is approximately 2°C cooler per 1,000 ft of altitude gain. This is a standard reference used for performance calculations. Deviations from ISA are reported as ISA+/- values.
Under CARS, how long must a flight crew member rest after a flight duty period that included a night flight?
8 hours
10 hours
12 hours
14 hours
CARS 700.19 requires a minimum of 12 consecutive hours of rest following any duty period that involves night flying to mitigate fatigue. This rest period begins at the end of the duty block and applies regardless of flight duration.
What is the maximum retention period for flight record data relating to maintenance under CARS?
Indefinite
3 years
1 year
2 years
Per CARS 605.81, maintenance records, including flight record data, must be retained for a minimum of two years. This retention ensures traceability of work performed on the aircraft.
Under CARS, what is the minimum vertical separation required between aircraft when operating in Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) airspace?
500 ft
1,500 ft
1,000 ft
2,000 ft
RVSM airspace between FL290 and FL410 requires a standard vertical separation of 1,000 ft. This reduced separation allows more efficient use of flight levels. Aircraft must be RVSM-approved to operate in this airspace.
Which section of the CARS covers the issuance of a Special Flight Permit?
Part V, Section 507
Part VII, Section 700
Part VI, Section 604
Part V, Section 505
CARS Part V, Subpart 7 (Section 507) details the issuance and conditions of Special Flight Permits, which allow the ferrying of aircraft not meeting all airworthiness requirements. These permits are time-limited and purpose-specific.
What is the maximum allowable takeoff weight for a microlight vehicle as defined by CARS?
544 kg
550 kg
450 kg
560 kg
A microlight under CARS definitions has a maximum takeoff weight of 544 kg (1,200 lbs). This weight limit distinguishes microlights from other light-sport and ultralight categories.
Under CARS, uncontrolled Class G airspace in most regions extends up to what altitude?
Surface to 18,000 ft ASL
Surface to 12,500 ft ASL
Surface to 14,500 ft ASL
Surface to 10,000 ft ASL
In most Canadian regions, Class G uncontrolled airspace extends from the surface to 12,500 ft ASL unless otherwise designated. Above that, controlled airspace begins. This is defined in CARS Subpart 3.2.
What is the minimum total flight time required before applying for a Canadian Instrument Rating under CARS?
100 hours total
150 hours total
200 hours total
250 hours total
CARS 421.05 requires applicants for an Instrument Rating to have at least 200 hours of total flight time, including specific instrument training. This ensures sufficient experience before IFR privileges are granted.
Under CARS, how often must emergency locator transmitters (ELTs) be tested for serviceability?
Every 24 months
Every 12 months
Every 36 months
Every 6 months
CARS 605.95 mandates an annual test of the ELT to verify its function. This test must be documented and does not activate the beacon for SAR purposes except during approved test procedures.
During a pressurization system leak check at 8,000 ft cabin altitude, what is the maximum permissible cabin altimeter drop over 30 minutes?
1000 ft
200 ft
0 ft
500 ft
CARS 605.98 requires that during a pressurization system leak check the cabin altitude may not drop more than 200 ft in 30 minutes at 8,000 ft cabin pressure. This ensures the integrity of the pressurization system.
Under CARS, what is the maximum age limit for aeronautical charts used for flight planning?
56 days
90 days
30 days
180 days
CARS 602.61 requires that aeronautical charts used for navigation be dated within 56 days to ensure current information. Outdated charts may omit airspace or obstacle changes.
What is the minimum number of takeoffs and landings a pilot must have completed in the same category and class within the preceding 6 months to carry passengers on a commercial operation?
3 takeoffs and landings
10 takeoffs and landings
5 takeoffs and landings
8 takeoffs and landings
CARS 421.14 mandates that for carrying passengers, a pilot must have completed at least five takeoffs and landings in the same category and class within the previous six months. This ensures recent proficiency.
Under CARS, what is the minimum terrain clearance required for VFR flights in mountainous areas?
1,000 ft above the highest obstacle within 2 NM
500 ft above the highest obstacle within 4 NM
3,000 ft above the highest obstacle within 4 NM
2,000 ft above the highest obstacle within 4 NM
CARS 602.115 specifies that in mountainous terrain, VFR flights must maintain at least 2,000 ft vertical clearance above the highest obstacle within 4 NM horizontally to allow for safe maneuvering.
According to CARS, what is the maximum interval between required inspections of the aircraft's altimeter and static system?
24 months
12 months
6 months
18 months
The Canadian Airworthiness Manual requires inspection and test of altimeter and static systems at intervals not exceeding 24 months to ensure accuracy. This is mandated under CAR Standard 625.28.
Under CARS, what is the standard weight used for pilot mass in weight and balance calculations if no actual weight is provided?
170 lb
160 lb
200 lb
190 lb
Transport Canada uses a standard pilot weight of 170 lb for weight and balance purposes when no actual weight is provided. This average weight is updated periodically.
When swinging a magnetic compass under CARS, what is the maximum allowable deviation for any heading?
10°
20°
15°
CAR Standard 625.28 specifies that compass calibration errors must not exceed 10° on any heading. This ensures reliable compass performance.
Under CARS, what conditions must be met to issue a Special Flight Permit for ferrying an aircraft with a known non-critical defect?
Defect does not affect safe flight and flight is to maintenance facility
Any defect may be ferried with operator approval
Only for expired airworthiness certificates
Only within 50 NM of the home aerodrome
CARS Part V, Section 507 allows issuance of a Special Flight Permit if the defect does not jeopardize safe flight and the flight is for maintenance or repair purposes. The permit is limited in scope and duration.
How does CARS define an "aircraft of Canadian registry" in terms of nationality and registration marks?
Registered in Canada with a "C-" prefix and nationality mark
Owned by a Canadian citizen
Operating exclusively within Canada
Manufactured in Canada
CARS 101 defines Canadian-registered aircraft as those bearing the nationality mark "C" and assigned registration marks by Transport Canada. Ownership alone does not confer registration status.
Under CARS, when can GNSS be used as the primary means of navigation for IFR operations?
At any time with dual GPS receivers
Only during daylight operations
When the installation is certified and approved for IFR use
Only on non-precision approaches
CARS 601.44 states GNSS can be primary navigation if the equipment and installation meet IFR certification standards and the operator has appropriate approval. Ad-hoc use without certification is prohibited.
According to CARS, what documentation must be recorded in the technical log for ELT tests?
Date, duration of test, and crew member's name
No documentation is required
Duration and frequency only
Date only
CARS 605.95 requires the date of the ELT test, the duration of operation, and identification of the person conducting the test to be entered in the technical log. This ensures traceability.
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Study Outcomes

  1. Understand the Framework of Canadian Aviation Regulations -

    Gain clarity on the organization and key sections of the CARs exam, helping you navigate the regulations with confidence.

  2. Identify AME License Requirements -

    Pinpoint essential maintenance engineer qualifications and regulatory standards to ensure you're prepared for AME license practice questions.

  3. Apply Regulations to Realistic Scenarios -

    Use the aviation regulations quiz to practice applying CARs rules in practical situations, mirroring the CARS practice test environment.

  4. Analyze Question Patterns -

    Examine recurring themes and question styles in the CARS exam to develop effective test-taking strategies.

  5. Evaluate Knowledge Gaps -

    Receive instant feedback on your quiz performance to identify strengths and focus on areas needing improvement.

  6. Reinforce Safety Compliance -

    Strengthen your understanding of core safety rules and procedures to boost confidence for the Canadian Aviation Regulations practice quiz.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Regulatory Structure & Definitions -

    Mastering the regulatory hierarchy in the cars exam starts with distinguishing Parts I - VII of the Canadian Aviation Regulations. Remember that "aircraft," "airman," and "airworthy" have precise definitions in Part I; try the mnemonic "CARE" (Crew, Authorizations, Regulations, Equipment) to recall core terms effortlessly. Review official definitions on the Transport Canada website to ace your CARS practice test.

  2. Airworthiness Inspections & Maintenance Intervals -

    CARs Part V outlines mandatory inspection schedules, including 100-hour (AVPPA) and annual inspections for aircraft. Use the formula "Flight Hours + Calendar Days" to track compliance (e.g., 100H/12M for maintenance) and log every entry in the aircraft maintenance record as per CAR 573.04. Familiarity with these intervals is critical for your Canadian Aviation Regulations practice.

  3. Flight Operations & Fuel Requirements -

    Under CARs Part VI, planning for VFR flight demands fuel for the trip plus a 30-minute reserve by day (45-minutes at night). The mnemonic "Trip + Alternate + Reserve" helps you remember fuel calculations, ensuring you meet minimum fuel rules when taking the CARS exam. Check examples on Transport Canada's Flight Supplement for real-world scenarios.

  4. Record-Keeping & Documentation -

    CARs Parts V and VII mandate detailed record-keeping, including maintenance logs, flight hours, and service bulletins. Always include the date, description of work, and signature - this level of detail can make or break your performance on an aviation regulations quiz. Refer to the official CARs documentation for sample log entries and formats.

  5. Safety Management Systems (SMS) -

    Recent CARs amendments require operators to implement SMS under Part VII, focusing on hazard identification and risk management. Use the "4P" framework - Plan, Perform, Process, and Promote - to memorize SMS components and answer AME license practice questions confidently. Transport Canada's SMS guidelines offer case studies perfect for your CARS practice test prep.

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