Which drone licences exist?
A1/A3, A2 and STS compared: what each certificate allows, who issues it and which one you actually need.
- A1/A3: the basic online certificate
- A2: extra certificate for C2 drones near people
- STS: standard scenarios in the Specific category
- Classes C0 to C4 decide what you may fly
- DroneAce prepares you for A1/A3 and A2
EU drone law has three categories: Open, Specific and Certified. Most pilots only need the Open category and therefore A1/A3, sometimes plus A2. How you obtain them differs slightly by country: in many countries you take the A1/A3 exam online with the aviation authority, in the Netherlands for example with a recognised flight school.
A1/A3: proof of online training
Online training followed by an exam of 40 multiple-choice questions, 75 percent to pass. It allows flights in A1 (light drones near people) and A3 (heavier drones far from people).
A2: certificate of competency
Requires A1/A3, a self-declared practical training and an additional theory exam of at least 30 questions. Depending on the country, the exam is run by the authority or by designated or recognised bodies.
STS: standard scenarios
The standard scenarios STS-01 and STS-02 belong to the Specific category and are mainly relevant for professional operations. They need their own theory exam and practical training.
Drone classes C0 to C4
New drones carry a class label: C0 under 250 g, C1 under 900 g, C2 under 4 kg, C3 and C4 under 25 kg. The class determines in which subcategory you may fly and which certificate you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between A1/A3 and A2?
A1/A3 is the basic certificate. A2 comes on top and allows you to fly a C2 drone closer to uninvolved people.
Do I need both?
Only if you want to fly a C2 drone close to people. Most hobby pilots are fine with A1/A3.
What are classes C0 to C4?
EU classes for new drones, based on weight and technical features. C0 is the lightest, C4 is meant for model aircraft without automation.
What is STS?
A standard scenario in the Specific category for more demanding, usually professional operations beyond the Open category.
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