How do I get an upgrade to race in an older category?

Upgrades are only considered in exceptional circumstances, with the support of an approved NCCP coach and your provincial or territorial association. Your licence must always show your correct UCI age category.

Provincial events: apply in writing to your provincial or territorial association. It issues a letter of upgrade, valid at provincial calendar events only (or as the letter specifies, for example for particular events).

National or international events: you need written approval from Cycling Canada. Complete a Temporary Age and Ability Upgrade Form, have your provincial or territorial association approve it, and submit it to Cycling Canada at least two weeks before the competition. Approval is not guaranteed. Cycling Canada only considers a move to a higher age category when you are in the last year of eligibility of your present age category. Show the Cycling Canada letter and your licence at registration.

As a general rule the UCI does not accept upgrades at UCI events, World Cups and World Championships.

In Quebec, a rider from another province cannot race in a different age category unless they have a letter from Cycling Canada or the upgrade is approved by the Quebec federation.

Source: Cycling Canada Licence Memo, 1 December 2025; 2026 Companion Guide, Part I, Chapter 1.