EASA A1/A3 vs A2 — What's the Difference and Which Do You Need?

If you're getting into drone flying in Europe, you've probably come across terms like A1/A3 and A2 certificates. They sound similar, but they serve very different purposes — and knowing which one you need can save you time, money, and legal trouble.

This guide breaks down the differences clearly so you can figure out exactly which certificate you need and how to get it.

The Quick Answer

Full Comparison

Understanding the Subcategories

The EASA Open Category (for low-risk operations) is divided into three subcategories. Your certificate determines which ones you can operate in:

Subcategory A1 — Fly Over People

For very light drones (under 250g with C0 marking, or under 900g with C1 marking). You can fly over uninvolved people but not over assemblies of people (concerts, markets, etc.). Requires the A1/A3 certificate.

Subcategory A2 — Fly Close to People

For medium drones (C2 class, typically 900g to 4kg). You can fly at 30 metres from uninvolved people, or 5 metres in low-speed mode. This is the subcategory that requires the A2 certificate — and the reason it exists.

Subcategory A3 — Fly Far from People

For any drone up to 25kg (C3, C4, or legacy drones). You must fly at least 150 metres from residential, commercial, or recreational areas. Requires the A1/A3 certificate. This is where most recreational flying happens.

Which Certificate Do You Need?

Here's a simple decision framework:

The Path: A1/A3 → A2

The certificates are sequential — you cannot skip to A2. Here's the typical timeline:

1. Week 1: Study for and pass the A1/A3 exam online. This can often be done in a single day — the exam is available directly from your national aviation authority and is usually free or costs around €25.
2. Week 2–3: Complete your practical self-training under A3 conditions (flying in open areas). Document this with a self-declaration.
3. Week 3–4: Study for the A2 exam. The material builds on A1/A3 but goes deeper into meteorology, ground risk mitigation, and the specifics of flying C2 drones near people.
4. Week 4: Take the A2 exam through your national authority or an approved provider. This may be online or in-person depending on your country.

In total, most people go from zero to fully A2-certified in 2 to 4 weeks.

Common Misconceptions

"I fly a DJI Mavic 3, so I need A2"

Not necessarily. The DJI Mavic 3 weighs about 895g. If it doesn't have a C2 class marking, you can fly it under A1 (if it gets one) or A3 rules (150m from people) with just your A1/A3 certificate. You only need A2 if you want to fly it closer to people — and even then, legacy drones without C-class marking have different distance requirements (50m minimum for drones 500g–2kg).

"A2 is harder, so it must be better"

A2 isn't "better" — it's different. It specifically allows operations closer to people. If you only fly in open areas, the A2 certificate gives you no additional privileges. Get it if you need it, not for bragging rights.

"My A1/A3 is enough for everything"

It's enough for a lot, but not for urban operations with heavier drones. If you find yourself regularly needing to fly within 150m of built-up areas with a drone over 250g, you're likely operating outside your A1/A3 privileges and should get the A2.

Summary

The A1/A3 certificate is your starting point — it's required, it's easy to get, and it covers most recreational and basic commercial drone operations. The A2 certificate is the next step for pilots who need to fly closer to people, particularly in urban and commercial settings.

Both certificates are valid for 5 years across all EASA member states, and both can be renewed by retaking the exam before expiry. Start with A1/A3, and add A2 when your operations require it.

Whichever certificate you're working towards — good luck, and fly safe! ✈️