EU A2 Drone License — Requirements & How to Carry It Digitally

What Is the A2 Certificate?

The A2 remote pilot competency is the second tier of drone pilot qualification under the EU Open category. While the A1/A3 certificate allows basic operations, the A2 unlocks a critical capability: flying heavier drones close to uninvolved people.

With A2, you can operate C2 class drones (up to 4kg) at a minimum horizontal distance of 30 metres from uninvolved people, reduced to just 5 metres when the drone is in low-speed mode. This makes the A2 essential for commercial pilots doing real estate photography, construction site surveys, event coverage, or any work in populated areas.

Prerequisites: A1/A3 First

You cannot go directly to A2. EASA requires that you hold a valid A1/A3 certificate of competency before you can register for the A2 exam. This ensures that every A2 pilot has already demonstrated foundational knowledge of drone regulations, airspace, and safety.

If you do not have your A1/A3 yet, the fastest route is through Luxembourg — completely online, free, and typically done in under 2 hours. See our guide to getting your drone license fast.

The A2 Exam

Unlike the self-paced A1/A3 exam, the A2 is a proctored examination. This means it must be taken under supervised conditions, either at a physical test centre or via approved remote proctoring software.

• 30 multiple-choice questions covering meteorology, drone flight performance, technical mitigation measures, and advanced operational procedures
• 75% pass mark — at least 23 correct answers out of 30
• Proctored setting — no open book, no reference materials during the exam
• Cost: typically €50 to €150 depending on your country and the exam provider

The questions are more technical than A1/A3. Expect detailed scenarios about flight planning near populated areas, understanding of ground risk classes, and knowledge of drone performance characteristics in different weather conditions.

Practical Self-Assessment

In addition to the written exam, A2 candidates must complete a practical self-assessment. This is a self-declaration that you have practised the required flight manoeuvres and are competent to fly in the A2 subcategory. The specific requirements include:

• At least 4 hours of practical flight experience
• Demonstrated competency in take-off, landing, hovering, and emergency procedures
• Understanding of the drone's performance limits in the intended operating environment

Some national authorities require you to submit this declaration alongside your exam result. Others integrate it into the exam registration process. Check your country's specific procedure.

What You Can Fly With A2

The A2 certificate specifically enables operations in the A2 subcategory of the Open category:

• C2 class drones (up to 4kg) — fly at a minimum 30m from uninvolved people, or 5m in low-speed mode
• C1 class drones (up to 900g) — fly close to uninvolved people but not over assemblies
• All A1 and A3 operations remain available to you as well

Popular drones that benefit from an A2 certificate include the DJI Air 3, DJI Mavic 3 series, and similar mid-weight platforms used in professional work.

Carry Your A2 Certificate in Apple Wallet

Once you earn your A2, you will have two certificates to carry: A1/A3 and A2. PilotPocket lets you add both to Apple Wallet as digital passes. During a field inspection, you can show both credentials instantly — no searching through emails or photo libraries for PDF screenshots.

The passes work offline, sync to Apple Watch, and stay accessible without opening any app. Your certificates are always one double-click away.

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