A1 Open Subcategory Prerequisites: Online Training and Online Theoretical Exam
A1 Open Subcategory Prerequisites
This domain tests the entry requirements for the A1 open subcategory. A1 covers low-risk flights with small drones - typically class C0 (below 250 g) and class C1 (below 900 g) - in areas where uninvolved people may be present. The exam asks what training and theoretical exam a remote pilot needs before those flights, and what the resulting certificate does and does not authorise.
The prerequisite sequence
The EU open-category framework separates the drone class from the pilot's competency. For A1 operations with a C1 drone, the remote pilot must complete an online training course and pass an online theoretical knowledge examination. The course covers the regulatory framework, airspace restrictions, privacy and data protection, security, insurance and basic safe operation. It is theoretical, not a flight lesson, and it does not require an examiner.
The online exam is multiple-choice and is administered by a designated entity or national authority. A pass typically requires 75% of the questions. The resulting A1/A3 certificate is personal to the remote pilot, is recognised across EU member states, and is valid for five years. A C0 drone below 250 g is generally exempt from the online exam for A1, but the operator may still need registration if the drone carries a camera.
Worked example
Tom wants to fly a 780 g class C1 drone in A1. He has read the manual but holds no certificate. He completes an approved online course and passes the online exam with 80%. He may now fly in A1, provided he also registers as an operator because the drone exceeds 250 g. The certificate is the pilot prerequisite; it does not remove the A1 operational limits or the registration duty.
Traps that cost marks
- Treating the A1 online exam as the same as the A2 additional theoretical exam. A2 needs both the online training/exam route and an additional exam.
- Assuming the online training is a practical flight course or an examiner-led test.
- Thinking the certificate never expires; the standard validity is five years.
- Confusing the remote pilot's certificate with the operator's registration number.
- Believing the certificate authorises overflight of uninvolved people or breach of A1 limits.