Course Introduction & Exam Prerequisites

Note

Much of this course is reproduced from the HPAC/ACVL Study Guide for the HAGAR Examination (Version 3.1, 2016), originally authored by Andre Nadeau. This material is used with permission from HPAC/ACVL and remains their property.

Background

The HAGAR examination is administered by Transport Canada to ensure that hang glider and paraglider (HG/PG) pilots have the necessary knowledge to safely share controlled airspace with other aircraft.

Hang glider and paraglider pilots flying in controlled airspace must successfully pass the HAGAR examination, regardless of their HPAC rating.

(Note: If you already hold a private, glider, ultralight, or helicopter pilot license, you are not required to write the HAGAR).

Some candidates may question the relevance of some information in this course. Indeed, some regulations as they pertain to hang gliding and paragliding do not seem to make a lot of sense. However, this material is examinable, so you must be familiar with it to pass.

The Medical Declaration (Do this first)

All HG/PG pilots flying in controlled airspace must complete a Category 4 Medical Declaration.

You must submit the form and get your Class 4 Medical Certificate from Transport Canada (TC) before writing the HAGAR examination. The easiest way to submit the form is to email it to your regional service centre: Regional service centres contact info.

• Processing Time: It may take up to 40 working days for TC to process your submission.
• Form: The declaration form can be found on Transport Canada’s Form Catalogue.
• Exam: Some examiners will ask to see your medical certificate before allowing you to write the exam, so bring it with you.

Beware of the “Part C” Confusion

Some pilots have reported that receptionists at TC regional centres asked them to have “Part C” of the form signed by a medical examiner. This is definitively not a requirement for a Category 4 medical.

Part C only applies to those seeking a private or recreational pilot license, which is clearly stated on the form. Receptionists are not hired for their knowledge of aviation regulations and are used to seeing private pilots. If this happens to you, politely ask to see a supervisor.

Scheduling the Exam

Once you have your certificate, you can schedule an exam. There are two options:

• Transport Canada Offices (Free): Schedule an appointment.
• Approved Invigilators: Prices vary by location. See a list of invigilators.

Did you know?

Transport Canada uses a system of “invigilators” to administer exams.

Invigilators can basically charge what they want, so prices will vary. In areas without invigilators, TC regional offices still administer the exam free of charge.

To find out where to write the exam in your area, talk to your local HG/PG school, your flying buddies, or contact a TC regional office. The TC link above will show you if there are any free options in your area.

Writing the HAGAR Exam

The test evaluates your understanding of the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs), Air Traffic Services procedures, and Visual Flight Rules (VFR). A significant portion of the exam will also test your practical ability to read and navigate using aeronautical charts.

The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. Because the passing mark is 60%, you will need to answer at least 24 questions correctly to pass.

If you don’t pass on your first try: Do not stress; you are allowed to rewrite the exam. However, Transport Canada imposes mandatory waiting periods for rewrites: 14 days after a first failure, and 30 days after a second failure.

The Exam Format

• Time Limit: The HAGAR exam lasts for 2 1/2 hours.
• Passing Mark: 60% (24/40).
• What to Bring: At least two pieces of identification along with your category 4 medical cert. You should also bring a long ruler, a protractor, and a calculator. These will be essential for the map work portion of the exam.

Essential References and Tools

While this course covers what you need to know, the following official references are the backbone of the HAGAR exam:

• VFR Navigation Charts (VNCs): These are the basic charts used by VFR pilots. Getting your hands on a physical VNC chart is essential to properly prepare for the map work on the HAGAR. (It does not matter if the chart is current or 15 years old for exam prep purposes). You can buy them through NavCanada, online pilot supply shops, or local flight schools.
• Note on VTA Charts: VFR Terminal Area (VTA) charts are half the scale of VNCs and cover busy airspace around major cities (Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, etc.). They cover smaller areas and are easier to read.
• Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs): The actual laws. There are many outdated versions online; the only current copy is on the Justice Canada website.
• Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM): Think of the AIM as the useful CARs written in plain language. Available on the Transport Canada website.
• Canada Flight Supplement (CFS): A thick directory of all registered aerodromes and airports in Canada, published monthly. The best way to get a copy is to ask a local powered aircraft flight school for an older, expired copy.

Course Feedback

This platform is intended to be a living document that can be updated as new information becomes available. If you notice any missing or erroneous material as you study, or have feedback after taking the exam, please email info@hagarpro.ca.

Support the Project

If you found this resource useful, consider supporting the project. Contributions help to improve the course and keep it up to date.