ROC-A vs PSTAR: Which One Should You Do First?
ROC-A vs PSTAR: Which One Should You Do First?
Canadian student pilots often hear about ROC-A and PSTAR at the same time. That can create confusion: Are they connected? Which one should be done first? Which one is harder? Can a student delay flight training by waiting too long?
This guide explains the difference in practical terms.
Quick links: Book your ROC-A exam • Free Study Hub
Quick answer
ROC-A is about aeronautical radio operator certification. PSTAR is related to student pilot permit knowledge requirements. They are different, but both can matter early in Canadian flight training.
Why students ask this question
Reddit discussions show Canadian students frequently discussing ROC-A and PSTAR together. Students ask about difficulty, exam order, study material, written/oral components, and how the exams fit into training.
Community question sources:
- https://www.reddit.com/r/flying/comments/zeswuu/roca_exam/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/flying/comments/eqhxfo/no_clue_how_to_study_for_pstar_and_radio_exam/
What ROC-A is for
ISED describes ROC-A as a radio operator certificate intended for aircraft pilots, drone operators, airport radio operators, and ground staff who operate radios in the aeronautical band. To obtain ROC-A, candidates must pass an exam administered by an accredited examiner.
What PSTAR is for
PSTAR is a separate Canadian student pilot knowledge requirement. It is not the same as ROC-A. PSTAR relates to aviation rules and knowledge for student pilots, while ROC-A relates to operating aeronautical radio equipment.
Because the exams serve different purposes, candidates should not think of one as replacing the other.
Which one should you do first?
For many candidates, doing ROC-A early is useful because radio confidence helps throughout flight training. However, the best order depends on the flight school, training timeline, medical status, and when the student expects to solo.
A practical approach:
- If the flight school has a required sequence, follow that sequence.
- If no sequence is required, do ROC-A early to remove one barrier.
- Do not delay medical paperwork.
- Do not wait until the week before solo to ask what is missing.
Which one is harder?
Many students describe both as manageable, but that does not mean candidates should ignore preparation. ROC-A can feel easier if the candidate understands radio procedure logic. PSTAR can feel easier if the candidate studies the question bank and understands the rules behind the answers.
How to avoid training delays
Use this checklist:
- Ask your flight school what must be completed before solo.
- Confirm medical requirements early.
- Ask when PSTAR is needed.
- Book ROC-A early enough to avoid last-minute pressure.
- Keep certificates, exam records, and emails organized.
Best study method
For ROC-A:
- Start with RIC-21.
- Use the Study Hub.
- Practise basic radio calls out loud.
- Review emergency and urgency communication.
For PSTAR:
- Follow your flight school’s recommended materials.
- Study rules, not just memorized answers.
- Ask instructors to clarify confusing topics.
Where ROCALicence.com fits in
ROCALicence.com can help candidates complete the ROC-A portion efficiently.
- Free Study Hub: https://rocalicence.com/study-hub
- Book ROC-A exam: https://rocalicence.com/roca
Final takeaway
ROC-A and PSTAR are different requirements. Do not wait until the last minute. Ask your school what is needed, complete ROC-A early if possible, and keep training paperwork organized.
General educational guidance only. Confirm your training sequence with your flight school or authorized training provider.
