22/05/2026 · 14 min read
EASA A1/A3 drone exam: how to prepare from scratch
A1/A3 is the first mandatory step for every drone pilot in the EU Open category. Here is a clear path to your certificate.
1. Why A1/A3 is the mandatory foundation
A1/A3 is the first real step for all drone pilots, because it builds the core safety and regulatory base. Without it, moving up to higher categories is inefficient.
What matters is not only passing the test, but understanding the principles that later reappear directly in A2 and STS questions.
2. The A1/A3 exam format
The official A1/A3 online exam is 40 questions in 40 minutes with a 75% pass threshold (30 correct answers). These are clear metrics to model your training on.
The sooner you get used to this time rhythm, the less stress in the official setting and the higher your chance of passing.
3. Which topics deserve the most attention
A1/A3 topics emphasise regulations, airspace, safety, human factors and basic technical knowledge. Each topic contributes to the overall quality of your decisions.
Even if some topics seem simple, the questions often present them with practical nuances. So study with examples, not just theoretical definitions.
4. How to use the free A2STS base
A2STS provides free A1/A3 theory preparation with tests and explanations. This lets you start without barriers and build a tidy learning routine.
Once you reach a stable A1/A3 level, moving to A2 becomes logical and much easier, because most of the base concepts are already understood.
5. What to plan after passing A1/A3
If your goal is commercial flying, plan A2 after A1/A3, and later STS depending on the nature of your projects. This sequence helps you grow without skipping steps.
For the long term, it helps to understand the 5-year cycle logic for higher qualifications early, so you don't have to rush later.
Dažniausiai užduodami klausimai
- What is the official A1/A3 exam format?
- The A1/A3 exam has 40 questions in 40 minutes and a 75% pass threshold.
- Is A1/A3 learning on A2STS really free?
- Yes - A2STS provides a free A1/A3 theory base and test practice.
- Do I need A2 right after A1/A3?
- It depends on your activity, but for many pilots A2 is the natural next step.
- Where is the official exam taken?
- The official exam is taken with your national aviation authority; A2STS helps you prepare up to that stage.