Learn about radio authorizations and explore the different radio authorizations issued by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.
On this page:
- What is a radio authorization and why do you require one?
- Explore the different radio authorizations issued by ISED
- Special authorizations
- Quick links
What is a radio authorization and why do you require one?
In Canada, a radio authorization is defined as a licence, certificate, or other authorization issued by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry under paragraph 5(1)(a) of the Radiocommunication Act. It is the legal authorization to allow its holder the use of a frequency in the radio spectrum.
Therefore, any individual or organization that intends to operate or sell radio equipment, or use radio frequencies or a spectrum of frequencies in Canada, is legally required to hold the appropriate radio authorization(s), unless they are otherwise exempt.
To learn more about the radio frequency spectrum and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada’s (ISED) role in managing it, read An introduction to the radio frequency spectrum.
Explore the different radio authorizations issued by ISED
Licences
Spectrum licences (terrestrial)
Information on spectrum licences (terrestrial) and the different types available, as well as alternative licensing arrangements for terrestrial spectrum licences (such as subordinate licences).
Satellite spectrum licences
Information on satellite spectrum licences and the different types available.
Radio licences
Information on radio licences, including those for radios in aircraft, ships, trucks, emergency vehicles, warehouses and other buildings, antenna towers, etc.
Certificates
Broadcasting certificates
Information on broadcasting certificates and the different types that are available, such as FM, AM, TV, and others.
Technical acceptance certificates
Information on wireless equipment certification.
Radio operator certificates
Information on restricted and general radio operator certificates and the different types that are available to operate radios in aircrafts or marine vessels.
Amateur radio operator certificates
Information on amateur radio operator certificates and qualifications.
Other authorizations
MMSIs and MIs
Information on maritime mobile service identities (MMSIs) and maritime identities (MIs) and the different types available.
Foreign satellite approval
Foreign satellite approvals may be issued for the use of foreign-licensed satellites to communicate within Canadian territory.
Site approvals for earth stations
A site approval is an approval of individual earth stations associated with a satellite spectrum licence.
Special authorizations
Pursuant to paragraph 5(1)(a)(v) of the Radiocommunication Act, ISED reserves the right to issue special authorizations when considered appropriate. A special authorization may be issued when no licensing procedure, framework or other licensing means exists or when certain special circumstances inhibit the standard licensing procedures.