PSTAR Training

The PSTAR (Pre-Solo Test of Air Regulations) is a written exam required by Transport Canada for student pilots before they are permitted to fly solo. It ensures that students understand the essential Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs), airspace rules, radio procedures, weather basics, and safe operating practices necessary to operate an aircraft independently. The PSTAR focuses on the legal and operational knowledge that keeps pilots safe in Canadian airspace, confirming that a student is ready to assume the responsibilities of solo flight.

PSTAR Study Guide ➜ PSTAR Practice Exam ➜

Typical Timeline for Helicopter Pilots

Most helicopter students:

  • Write the PSTAR after 5–15 hours of flight training

  • Usually just before their first solo circuit

Readiness is based on:

  • Demonstrated control of the helicopter (hovering, circuits, basic maneuvers)

  • Understanding of airspace rules

  • Radio procedures

  • Local aerodrome procedures

  • Key Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs)

Because helicopter training often involves intensive dual instruction early on, some students may write it sooner, especially if ground school is progressing quickly.

PSTAR – Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the PSTAR?

The PSTAR (Pre-Solo Test of Air Regulations) is a written exam required by Transport Canada before a student pilot is permitted to fly solo. It tests knowledge of Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs), airspace rules, radio procedures, and safe operating practices.

2. Is the PSTAR required for helicopter students?

Yes. All Canadian student pilots — including those pursuing a Private Pilot License – Helicopter (PPL-H) — must successfully complete the PSTAR before their first solo flight.

3. When do I write the PSTAR?

There is no minimum hour requirement. Most students write it shortly before their first solo, typically after 5–15 hours of flight training, depending on instructor readiness and ground school progress.

4. How many questions are on the PSTAR?

The PSTAR contains 50 multiple-choice questions selected from a Transport Canada question bank.

5. What is the passing mark?

The minimum passing grade is 90% (45 out of 50 correct).

6. What topics are covered?

The exam focuses on operational knowledge needed for solo flight, including:

  • Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs)

  • Airspace classifications

  • Right-of-way rules

  • VFR weather minima

  • Aerodrome procedures

  • Radio communications

  • Light signals

  • Emergency procedures

  • Basic flight safety rules

7. Is the PSTAR the same as the PPL written exam?

No. The PSTAR is a short pre-solo regulatory test. The Private Pilot License written exam (PPAER for helicopters) is a much more comprehensive Transport Canada examination covering aerodynamics, navigation, meteorology, flight planning, and more.

8. Where do I write the PSTAR?

The PSTAR is administered at your flight school by a qualified instructor or chief flight instructor.

9. What happens if I fail?

You can rewrite the exam after additional instruction. Since the passing mark is high (90%), proper preparation is important.

10. Does the PSTAR expire?

Yes. A successfully completed PSTAR is valid for 24 months. If you do not complete your license within that time, you may need to rewrite it.

11. Is the PSTAR difficult?

It is not considered academically difficult, but the high passing mark means you must understand the regulations clearly — especially airspace and VFR weather rules.

12. How should I study for the PSTAR?

Best practice includes:

  • Reviewing the applicable sections of the CARs

  • Studying Transport Canada’s PSTAR study guide

  • Practicing sample questions

  • Reviewing local procedures with your instructor