A2 drone exam - prepare for your EU open-category licence

What is the A2 drone exam?

The A2 exam is the theoretical knowledge test for remote pilot competency in open subcategory A2 under Regulation (EU) 2019/947. It builds on your A1/A3 foundation and adds topics such as meteorology, UAS flight performance, and ground risk mitigation when operating closer to uninvolved persons than in A3.

Passing the official EASA drone exam at your National Aviation Authority records A2 competency on your profile. You can then fly eligible class-marked drones within A2 distance rules, subject to national implementing measures.

A2STS is an online preparation and training platform only. We do not issue EU remote pilot certificates or replace your National Aviation Authority (NAA). Official EASA drone exams are booked and delivered by your NAA under Regulation (EU) 2019/947 and Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945.

Who needs the A2 drone licence?

Choose A2 when your open-category missions require flying nearer to people than A3 allows, but you do not yet need a full specific-category authorisation. Typical users include freelance videographers, inspection pilots, agriculture operators in open category, and SMEs scaling from hobby to light commercial work.

If you plan declared Standard Scenarios (STS-01, STS-02) or bespoke specific-category operations, you will also need STS drone certification - A2 alone does not replace STS.

Requirements and prerequisites

Most Member States expect you to master A1/A3 content before attempting A2. A2STS mirrors that path: use the free A1/A3 base, then unlock A2 timed simulations and topic drills when you are ready for commercial-style prep.

• Valid A1/A3 remote pilot competency (EU baseline)
• Additional self-study or training on A2 syllabus topics as required by your NAA
• Operator registration and aircraft compliance with open-category rules
• Practical self-familiarisation with your drone class and manufacturer limits

A2 exam format

The standard A2 theoretical exam is 30 multiple-choice questions in 30 minutes. You need at least 75% correct answers (23/30). Delivery is usually in person at the NAA or an approved centre, unlike the online A1/A3 test in many countries.

A2STS runs the same counts in timed simulations drawn from 545+ exam-style questions with explanations, mistake review and progress analytics - so you arrive at the NAA knowing the pacing and question style.

What you are allowed to do after passing

A2 competency lets you conduct open-category operations in subcategory A2 within EU limits - generally closer to uninvolved persons than A3, provided your drone meets class requirements and you apply published ground-risk mitigation.

You still cannot override specific-category requirements: BVLOS beyond open limits, flights over crowds, or STS operations need the appropriate certificate and operational authorisation.

Validity (5 years) and renewal

Like other EU remote pilot competencies, A2 is normally valid for 5 years. Renewal exams typically mix A1/A3 and A2 questions in a shorter classroom session (for example 35 questions in 35 minutes in several NAAs).

Review our certificate renewal exams page before your expiry window and run renewal simulations in the learning hub.