No, a non-Student Direct Stream (non-SDS) visa application for Canada does not necessarily require you to take the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam.
The Canadian government offers two streams for student visa applications - SDS and non-SDS. The SDS stream has specific requirements, including studying at a designated learning institution and showing proof of financial support.
Unlike the SDS stream, which has a minimum IELTS score requirement, the non-SDS stream doesn't have a mandated IELTS score for the visa application itself.

https://studyabroad.careers360.com/exams/ielts

I hope it helps!

While the IELTS is the most widely used English proficiency test in Canada, non-SDS applicants can demonstrate their proficiency with the English language through scores on the TOEFL or PTE.