AVOP Practice Test : Free Exam Questions & Study Guide
To operate any motorized vehicle on an airport's airside, you must first obtain an Airside Vehicle Operator's Permit (AVOP). This essential certification ensures that all drivers understand Airport Driving Rules, signage, and communication protocols necessary to maintain aircraft safety.
Our comprehensive AVOP Study Guide and AVOP Practice Test resources are designed to help you prepare for both the written and practical examinations. Whether you are aiming for a DA AVOP (Apron) or a D AVOP (Runway/Taxiway), mastering these AVOP Exam Questions is the key to passing on your first attempt.
The Airside Driving Test is a high-stakes assessment where even minor errors in understanding airfield lighting or right-of-way can lead to a runway incursion and immediate disqualification.
Free AVOP Practice Tests
Refresh your knowledge and build confidence with our targeted simulation tests for different permit levels and specific airports.
AVOP Study Flashcards
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AVOP Exam Study Guide
Every airport, from YYC to GTAA and YVR, has specific operational nuances. This AVOP Study Guide provides the fundamental pillars of airside safety across the board.
| What is the primary requirement for an AVOP? | You must hold a valid provincial driver's license (G2/Class 5 or higher) and a valid RAIC (security clearance). |
| Can I drive at any airport with an AVOP? | No. An Airside Vehicle Operator's Permit is airport-specific. A permit for YYC is not valid at Toronto Pearson. |
| What is a DA AVOP? | A DA permit allows the holder to drive on aprons and vehicle corridors only. It does not grant taxiway or runway access. |
| What happens if I get a traffic ticket airside? | Violations are recorded against your AVOP and can lead to immediate suspension or permanent removal of airside driving privileges. |
| How many questions are on the written AVOP test? | Tests typically consist of 30 to 50 multiple-choice questions depending on the permit type (DA vs D). |
| Is the AVOP exam difficult? | The passing score is usually 80% to 100%. Precision is required because safety margins airside are zero. |
| What does the practical test involve? | A "Check-Ride" where an examiner observes your driving, signage identification, and adherence to speed limits. |
| Are there radio questions on the test? | For D permit levels, you must pass a radio proficiency test and hold a Restricted Operator Certificate (ROC-A). |
| How do I register for an AVOP test near me? | Registration is usually handled through your employer and the local Airport Authority Permit Office. |
| Can I take the AVOP test online? | Many airports offer training modules online, but the final knowledge exam is usually proctored on-site. |
| Is there a waiting period for retests? | Yes. If you fail, there is usually a 7-to-30-day waiting period before you can attempt the test again. |
| What should I bring to the exam? | Your RAIC, provincial license, and an employer-signed application form are mandatory. |
| When will I get my AVOP results? | Knowledge test results are usually available immediately. Practical results are provided after the drive. |
| How long is the AVOP permit valid? | Validity ranges from 2 to 5 years. You must monitor your expiration date for renewal. |
| Will I get a physical card? | Yes, upon passing both tests, a physical permit card is issued, which must be carried at all times while driving airside. |
| Does the permit expire with my license? | Yes. If your provincial driver's license expires or is suspended, your AVOP is automatically invalidated. |
| How does an AVOP impact salary? | Positions requiring an AVOP, such as Fueler or Marshaller, typically pay $3k–$10k more annually than non-driving airside roles. |
| What is the average salary for a D AVOP holder? | Drivers with runway access often earn $55,000 to $75,000 per year in specialized operations like snow removal. |
| Are ground handling jobs stable? | Yes, airport operations are year-round, and specialized AVOP drivers are in high demand at major hubs like YYZ and YVR. |
| Does an AVOP help with career advancement? | Absolutely. It is the baseline requirement for advancing into Airport Operations and Management positions. |
AVOP Test Format and Structure
The Airside Vehicle Operator's Permit is structured to match the complexity of the areas you will be driving in. Most airports utilize a tiered permit system.
Grants privileges to drive on aprons and vehicle corridors. Suitable for ground handlers, baggage crews, and caterers.
- Topics: Corridor Safety, Right-of-Way
- Questions: 30 Multiple Choice
Allows access to runways and taxiways. Mandatory for maintenance, aircraft towing, and emergency personnel.
- Topics: Precision Radio, Navigation
- Questions: 50 Multiple Choice
D permit applicants must hold a Restricted Operator Certificate with Aeronautical Qualification to use airside radios.
- Topics: Frequency Usage, Clarity
- Questions: Oral/Written Exam
A hands-on driving test on the airfield. You must demonstrate safe driving and correct identification of all signage.
- Topics: Real-world Application
- Questions: Pass/Fail Criteria
Always study the specific airport's map. Navigating YYC is very different from YUL. Focus on the "Hot Spots"—areas where incursions are most likely to occur.
AVOP Test Score Calculator
The passing standard for the Airside Driving Test is higher than a typical license. Select your airport to see the required correct answers.
AVOP Career and Salary Information
Holding an Airside Vehicle Operator's Permit is essential for most operational roles on the airfield. As you advance from DA to D permits, your earning potential increases.
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Monthly Income | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (DA AVOP) | $38,000 - $46,000 | $3,500 | 0-2 Years |
| Mid-Level (D Permit) | $48,000 - $65,000 | $4,700 | 3-6 Years |
| Senior / Specialist | $68,000 - $88,000 | $6,500 | 7-12 Years |
| Operations Management | $95,000 - $130,000 | $9,400 | 12+ Years |
Many airports face a shortage of certified D AVOP drivers for snow removal and maintenance roles, offering excellent job security and overtime opportunities.
How to Become an AVOP Certified Driver
The journey to obtaining your Airside Vehicle Operator's Permit follows a strict regulatory path to ensure you are safely integrated into the airside environment.
- Employer Sponsorship - You must be employed by a tenant or the airport authority to apply.
- Theory Training - Complete mandatory online or in-person training modules.
- Knowledge Testing - Schedule your written exam once you feel prepared by our practice tests.
- Radio Licensing - (For D/DA) Complete the Industry Canada ROC-A certification.
- Mentored Driving - Log the required hours of supervised airside driving.
- Skill Evaluation - Demonstrate proficiency during the final check-ride.
- Permit Issuance - Receive your physical AVOP card after all fees are settled.
AVOP Certification Costs
Understanding the costs associated with the Airside Vehicle Operator's Permit is important for budgeting, though many employers subsidize these fees.
Check your employment contract. Most major airlines and ground handlers cover 100% of the AVOP application and testing fees for their staff.
AVOP Career Specialties
Specialized paths available for certified airside operators
AVOP Contact Information
Reach out to your local airport authority for the latest AVOP study materials and exam schedules.
Always contact the specific airport office for "near me" training locations. Most airports require you to be employed by a tenant company before they will allow you to challenge the AVOP test.
AVOP Test Day Checklist
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Your Airside Vehicle Operator's Permit is not permanent. Maintaining your certification requires continuous clean driving and regular knowledge refreshes.
Always check your permit expiration date. Operating airside with an expired AVOP is a serious security violation and can lead to immediate termination of your airside access privileges.
AVOP Frequently Asked Questions
From initial orientation to the final check-ride, the AVOP process usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on training availability.
AVOP training is provided directly by the Airport Authority at major hubs like Calgary (YYC), Toronto (GTAA), or Vancouver (YVR).
You must typically wait a mandatory period (usually 7 days) before you can attempt the AVOP exam again, and a retest fee may apply.
No. Because airfield layouts and specific local Airport Driving Rules differ, you must obtain a new AVOP for every airport where you drive.
The AVOP exam is rigorous because safety is the top priority. However, using our AVOP Practice Test resources makes it very manageable.
A DA permit is restricted to aprons, while a D permit allows access to maneuvering areas like taxiways and runways with ATC clearance.
Yes, for D and DA permits that require communication with the tower, a Restricted Operator Certificate (ROC-A) is required.
The AVOP permit fee is generally between $45 and $65, though most employers cover this cost for their staff.
Yes, our platform provides comprehensive AVOP Knowledge Questions and specific YYC AVOP modules for free online study.
Yes, AVOPs typically expire every 2 to 5 years. You must pass a knowledge refresher or a new written exam to renew it.