Frequently Asked Questions
FrançaisQ: I’m interested in getting started in model or high-power rocketry but don’t know where to begin. What should I do?
A: Welcome! We recommend consulting our website and contacting your regional director for the latest information on local clubs and upcoming launches. Attending a club launch is one of the best ways to get introduced to the hobby and learn from like-minded enthusiasts. In addition, many local and online hobby stores carry beginner-friendly model rocket kits that include everything needed to build and independently launch your first small model rocket in an open area such as an empty sports field. Be sure to do so in compliance with the model rocketry safety code and all applicable local laws and regulations.
Q: Who should I contact to begin the process of becoming CAR/ACF Level 1 high-power certified?
A: Your regional director is your first point of contact for getting certified. They are responsible for administering the L1 high-power rocketry written exam and can help you to find a high-power launch event at which to attempt your certification flight.
Q: What does the Level 1 high-power rocketry written exam look like?
A: The exam has two sections. The first is a series of multiple-choice questions covering Transport Canada regulations related to high-power rocket launches in Canada. The second is a series of multiple-choice questions that assess a candidate’s understanding of fundamental high-power rocketry concepts and safe practices. A study guide for the exam is available from your regional director.
Q: Who and what does CAR/ACF liability insurance cover?
A: Please consult our separate insurance Q&A webpage.
Q: I’d like to start a new CAR/ACF Affiliated Club. What should I do first?
A: Begin by contacting your regional director for region-specific guidance. Any new launch site must also be submitted to CAR/ACF for review and approval before it can be used for a sanctioned (insured) launch.
Q: I was previously a CAR/ACF member but let my membership lapse. Can I rejoin and have my CAR number and certifications reinstated?
A: Yes! If your membership has been inactive for a long time, you may need to register as a new member and then email memberships@canadianrocketry.org to have your certifications and original CAR number reinstated.
Q: I am currently a TRA or NAR member. Do I also need to join CAR/ACF to fly at a CAR/ACF sanctioned launch?
A: Yes. Our launch insurance policy requires that all participants launching at a CAR/ACF-insured launch event be current CAR/ACF members in good standing.
Q: I am already Level 1, 2 or 3 HPR certified with TRA or NAR. Under the reciprocal agreement CAR/ACF shares with these organizations, do I need to write the L1 HPR exam to transfer my existing certification to the equivalent CAR/ACF level?
A: You will need to write only the Transport Canada portion of the HPR written exam the first time you transfer a TRA or NAR certification level to the equivalent CAR/ACF level. Writing the full exam is not required. Please contact us in advance with proof of your TRA or NAR certification level.
Q: Does CAR/ACF offer student membership pricing for high-school or university students?
A: No. However, a reduced-fee Junior membership is available to all individuals under 18. This policy reflects the already low cost of CAR/ACF membership relative to the inherently high expenses of high-power rocketry.
Q: How long does it take for my membership to be approved or updated after I complete a certification?
A: We process member information as promptly as possible. As a volunteer-run organization, please allow up to 10 business days from the time we receive your information for updates to appear on your profile.