Reminder: Signing Authorities initiate the TSC application request for employees by inviting them through the TSS platform. Employees cannot initiate the application process themselves.
As an employee required to work in a restricted area, you may need to apply for the following passes and permits. Please review the application steps below:
Transport Canada Transportation Security Clearance (TSC) – This is a background security check conducted by Transport Canada to be eligible for Restricted Area Identity Cards (RAICs). This must be renewed every five years. When renewing your TSC, we recommend that you start the process six months before its expiry date.
Restricted Area Identity Card (RAIC) – This card allows an employee to work in the restricted areas of the airport. To receive a RAIC you must have a valid TSC. Your RAIC must be renewed every five years along with your TSC. You require a completed RAIC application that has been authorized by your Company Signing Authority
Security Control Pass (temporary pass) – This is the temporary pass you receive while waiting for your TSC to clear so you can be issued a full RAIC. This temporary pass allows an employee to work in a restricted area. Security Control Passes are valid for 6 months. If you haven’t received your TSC approval by the end of the 6 months, it can be extended. A new RAIC application form is required to renew an expired Security Control Pass. You require a completed RAIC application that has been authorized by your Company Signing Authority.
Keycards - A keycard is access given on a case by case basis whether you're on a temporary or permanent pass. This requires notation on the RAIC (Restricted Area Identity Card) application form signed by a signing authority. If additional access is required, than a keycard application form needs to be completed indicating the proper access required and signed by a signing authority.
Access Control Officer Card - Access Control Officer (ACO) Cards are only for A.S.P. Access Control guards. They are required to do a yearly test to renew their ACO cards, to show that they are up to date with policies and procedures of the airport. Original passes are issued by the company. The pass office only issues renewal ACO cards.
Airside vehicle operator’s permits (AVOPs) - AVOPs certify airport employees who can drive airside, which means driving in our gate, runway, and aircraft taxi areas. All additional information pertaining to the AVOP program can be found in the Airport Traffic Directives. You require a completed AVOP Application Form that has been authorized by your Company Signing Authority.
Please review the instructions below carefully, as mistakes in your application will cause processing delays. If you provide false information or misrepresent yourself, your application will not be processed.
This is a background security check conducted by Transport Canada. This must be renewed every five years. You must complete the onboarding process with your employer. Your employer will initiate your TSC application via the Transportation Security Service (TSS) platform.
Applicants will receive an invitation from the Signing Authority to apply for TSC. Applicants will then proceed with the onboarding process as detailed in the:
For existing employees: When renewing your TSC, we recommend that you start the process six months before its expiry date.
For out-of-country employees: Please visit the Government of Canada’s website for travel and out of country documentation requirements.
For questions or assistance on the Transportation Security Clearance application, please contact your company signing authority.
Useful Links for TSC Applications:
Our Airport Security and Safety Awareness training course is a mandatory step for all new and renewing airport employees applying for a RAIC. This training is mandatory for:
You will be required to complete a 10 minute validation quiz on the Airport Security Awareness training course at the Pass Office during your application process. Learn more in this advisory.
You will receive an email from the Pass Office to submit your Transportation Security Clearance (TSC) during your first visit.
For this appointment, you must bring these original documents with you:
If you were born in Canada, you must bring these pieces of original identification:
If you were born outside of Canada, you must bring these pieces of original identification:
You can book an appointment by visiting the Pass Office page.
For new employees, you may be given a Security Control Pass at your first appointment- a temporary pass issued by the Pass Office in order to allow an employee to work in a restricted area, with restrictions, until Transport Canada grants a security clearance and you are eligible for a full RAIC.
Security Control Passes are valid for six months. A security control pass holder may extend a valid Security Control Pass by visiting the Pass Office for an extension. If you let your Security Control Pass expire, you will need to complete a new RAIC application form.
The average wait time is three to six months. You and your employer will both be notified when your TSC has been granted.
During Transport Canada’s review process, which includes a background check, Transport Canada or the Pass Office may need to contact you, so remember to inform us of any contact information changes. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of your application.
While you’re waiting for your TSC, you may need to renew your temporary Security Control Pass. A security control pass holder may extend a valid Security Control Pass by visiting the Pass Office for an extension. If you let your Security Control Pass expire, you will need to complete a new RAIC application form.
Once your TSC has been granted, you may apply for a permanent RAIC. To apply for a RAIC, you must bring the following documents to the Pass Office:
You can book an appointment by visiting the Pass Office page.
CATSA is the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA). They are responsible for implementing RAICs and we use their system to process the cards.
You will need to visit the office once to apply for your TSC. If approved, you’ll need to visit the office a second time to process a RAIC with the CATSA system.
Transport Canada processes the security clearances that are required prior to obtaining a RAIC. Their TSC policy aims to prevent unlawful acts of interference with civil aviation by granting clearance to people who meet the standards set out in the Program. The Program is in place to determine whether a person poses a risk to transportation security.
All security items are the property of the GTAA and must be returned to the Pass Permit Control Office upon termination of employment.
