international drone academy

EU Remote Pilot Certificate A1/A3

From January 1, 2023, the new European regulation on drones is in force in EU states. The new regulation also introduces new EU drone licensees, which are mandatory for the operation of most drones.

Every remote pilot of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) weighing 250g or more or with a camera is required to carry a valid A1/A3 remote pilot certificate and a certificate of insurance for drone liability insurance.

This foundational certificate ensures you understand the essential rules and safety procedures for flying drones in the Open Category, making your operations compliant and safe.

Essential EASA Drone Flight License for Open Category Operations

CategoryEASA Open Category
DurationApprox. 15-20 hours (online modules & test completion)
Minimum age16
LanguagesEnglish
ParticipantsIndividual online training
CertificateEU remote pilot certificate A1/A3
Recognized byIssued by designated EU National Aviation Authorities upon successful online examination.

Course objectives

  • Understand the current European drone regulations applicable to the Open Category.
  • Learn essential aviation law, safety procedures, and airspace restrictions.
  • Develop an awareness of human factors that can influence drone piloting.
  • Master operational procedures including flight preparation, in-flight monitoring, and post-flight actions.
  • Gain general knowledge of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) construction, limitations, data linking, and basic maintenance.
  • Successfully prepare for and pass the official online examination to obtain the A1/A3 remote pilot certificate.

Prerequisites

Access to a computer or tablet with internet connection.
Basic computer literacy.
Ability to read and understand English (or the language the course is provided in).

Syllabus

MODULE 1: AVIATION LAW AND SAFETY

  • Aviation security
  • Airspace restrictions
  • Privacy and data protection
  • Compulsory insurance

MODULE 2: HUMAN FACTORS

  • Estimating distances
  • Visibility in bad weather
  • Overconfidence

MODULE 3: OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES

  • Flight preparation
  • Flight monitoring
  • Follow-up
  • Non-scheduled procedures

MODULE 4: GENERAL UAS KNOWLEDGE

  • Basics of flying
  • Construction and limitations
  • Data linking and flight modes
  • Maintenance

Practical content

N/A - This is an online theoretical course.

Exam & assessment

HOW THE ONLINE TEST WORKS

Questionnaire

  • The test contains 40 multiple choice questions.
  • If 75% of these questions are answered correctly, the exam is considered passed.
  • It takes about 15-20 hours to go through the training modules and complete the test.
  • The test must be completed within a 30-day time period.
  • You will receive your result immediately after the test.

Certificate

  • After completing the test, you will receive your result and certificate in PDF format.
  • The certificate will also be sent to the email address you provided.
  • The certificates are valid in the EU, and most countries around the world.
  • Certificates are valid for five years, after which the theoretical knowledge acquired must be refreshed.

Who is it for?

Individuals intending to fly drones weighing 250g or more within EU states.
Pilots of any drone (regardless of weight) equipped with a camera operating in the EU.
Hobbyists and professionals seeking foundational EASA drone certification.
Required as a prerequisite for more advanced EASA drone certifications (e.g., A2, STS).

Register for this course

Fill in your details and our team will get back to you about EU Remote Pilot Certificate A1/A3.

    Your Name (required)

    Your Email (required)

    Phone Number

    Course of Interest

    Your Message (optional)

    Scroll to Top