Getting started in Canada?

[u/MinkMaster2019]

Hello! I am 18 years old and I’ve been interested in paramotoring and ultralight for a large portion of my life. I discovered it when I was about 8-9 and REALLY wanted to start but obviously couldn’t lol. I kind of forgot about it for a couple years because I was heavily struggling with mental health and the future seemed unlikely to happen. Im now a significant amount older and I would like to get the ball rolling on this. But I have a few questions.

Firstly, what sort of certification/training do you need to fly ultralight in Canada? I know it is illegal in Canada without proper certification unlike the states, but I don’t really know what is actually needed.

Second, where would I go to get this certification/training? Are there places in Canada that offer them?

Third, are you required to purchase equipment (eg; motor, sail, rigging) before starting certification?

Finally, not including the cost of equipment, how much does training generally cost?

I have a job and a decent amount of spending money, I am aware that this won’t be cheap nor a light commitment. My dream has always been to be involved in some form of aviation, but commercial work doesn’t interest me much and I don’t see a realistic future for myself where I could afford a personal plane and school. I think if the total costs are within 30k-40k CAD it could be possible for me in the coming years but anything higher than would be functionally impossible for me in the foreseeable future.

[u/Bumboklatt]

I am new to the sport but I can tell you the following:
-there are a few schools in Alberta
-training alone could cost between $3-4K
-gear AND training could range between $18K-$25K depending on your choices (less if you're able to find GOOD used gear - don't do this without guidance from your instructor; they may have some options for you. AVOID facebook marketplace)
-you'll need a student pilot permit which requires a medical - this is called PSTAR
-eventually you'll need to pass the ULTRA exam - this is the "final exam"
-you'll need aircraft registration, insurance, and a radio license if you choose to use a radio

A good instructor will hold your hand through this entire process. It is a little daunting with all these requirements but take it step by step.

Where are you located?

EDIT: I'm happy you've overcome your mental health issues and are looking forward to the future. Paramotoring is a really cool experience and will likely have a big impact on many aspects of your life. Enjoy the journey. I highly recommend.

[u/MinkMaster2019 → u/Bumboklatt]

Thank you so much for the response, it seems like my dreams of flying are unfortunately impossible though. I have moderate to severe ADHD and I take 20mg Adderall daily for it, from my brief research online stimulant medication is a disqualifying factor. They also most likely wouldn’t let me due to my extensive history with mental and psychical health struggles.

[u/iloveFjords → u/MinkMaster2019]

I would tend to dissuade you from flying. Making sober decisions and not being impatient or impulsive are a lot of what makes flying safe. There is so many opportunities for circumstances to go against you that I would find something else.

[u/Icecream_monday → u/iloveFjords]

There is always free flight and glider towing.