Drone Certifications & Training Overview
From A1/A3 and A2 to STS and LBA authorizations: On this page, you will clearly and easily find out which certification fits your use case and which training options are available.
Jump directly to the right section:
Your path to the right certification
From your first certificate to LBA authorization
From initial orientation to individual approval. Step by step, find the right certification for your specific operation.
A1/A3
The entry point into the Open Category for many standard flights. This certificate is obtained directly through the LBA and forms the basis for the next steps.
● Start with A1/A3A2
Expanded possibilities for professional operations in the Open Category. The logical next step for more demanding missions.
● Explore A2 TrainingSTS
Your entry into the Specific Category through standardized scenarios. Ideal when your operation goes beyond the Open Category.
● Discover STSLBA Authorization
Individual approvals for complex and professional operations, including SORA, the operational concept, and concrete support for the application process.
● Explore LBA AuthorizationYour path to the right certification
From your first certificate to authorization
Step by step to the certification that fits your operation.
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Training & Solutions
The right training for your next step
From a safe start with A2 and STS to specialized applications, BOS training, and tailored end-to-end solutions.
Fundamentals
The perfect starting point for beginners and anyone who wants to learn the safe handling of drones and technology.
View fundamentalsA2 Training
For anyone who wants to expand their capabilities and operate more professionally.
View A2 trainingSTS Training
The next step for more complex operations beyond the Open Category.
View STS trainingSpecialized Training
For inspection, photogrammetry, thermography, and other professional application areas.
BOS Training
Specialized training and solutions for authorities and organizations with security responsibilities, tailored to real operational requirements.
View BOS trainingCustom Solutions & Packages
Complete solutions with drone, training, accessories, consulting, and support for approvals, tailored to your operation, your team, and your requirements.
Send a custom inquiryTraining & Solutions
The right training for your next step
From A2 and STS to BOS, thermography, and custom end-to-end solutions.
Fundamentals
The perfect starting point for beginners and anyone who wants to learn the safe handling of drones and technology.
View fundamentalsA2 Training
For anyone who wants to expand their capabilities and operate more professionally.
View A2 trainingSTS Training
The next step for more complex operations beyond the Open Category.
View STS trainingSpecialized Training
For inspection, photogrammetry, thermography, and other professional application areas.
BOS Training
Specialized training and solutions for authorities and organizations with security responsibilities.
View BOS trainingCustom Solutions & Packages
Complete solutions with drone, training, accessories, consulting, and approval support.
Send a custom inquiryFree Download
Overview of the 2026 EU Drone Regulation
Download the complete overview as a free PDF, including guidance on A1, A2, A3, STS, BOS, and LBA authorization.
Download PDF now
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Frequently Asked Questions
Important Questions About Drone Licenses and Training
A quick overview of when A1/A3, A2, STS, or an operational authorization may be required.
When is the A1/A3 certificate sufficient?
The EU A1/A3 competency certificate is suitable for many standard flights within the Open Category and is often the first step into legal drone operations.
With A1, pilots may operate C0 and C1 classified drones. This includes drones under 250 g as well as drones up to 900 g take-off weight. The maximum flight altitude is 120 meters.
With A3, larger drones up to 25 kg may also be operated. However, these flights must take place with sufficient distance from uninvolved persons and at least 150 meters away from residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational areas.
The exact possibilities always depend on the specific drone class and the intended operational environment.
When do I need the A2 drone license?
The A2 drone license is required when flights need to take place closer to people and the capabilities of the A1/A3 certificate are no longer sufficient.
With the A2 certificate, C2 classified drones weighing up to 4 kg may be operated in populated areas. Here as well, the maximum flight altitude is 120 meters.
Unlike A3, A2 allows controlled flights closer to uninvolved persons. The minimum distance is generally 30 meters. In low-speed mode, this distance may under certain conditions be reduced to 5 meters.
A2 is particularly suitable for professional photo, video, and inspection flights in more densely populated environments.
What is the difference between A2 and STS?
A2 still belongs to the Open Category and covers professional operations within the standard European rules.
STS, however, already belongs to the Specific Category and enables more complex operations with extended operational capabilities.
STS-01 allows standardized operations with C5 classified drones within the direct visual line of sight of the pilot, known as VLOS. Under certain conditions, this allows operations in populated areas.
STS-02 additionally allows BVLOS operations under certain conditions, meaning flights beyond direct visual line of sight. This enables operations outside visual range in sparsely populated areas under certain conditions.
When do I need an LBA operational authorization?
As soon as a planned operation can no longer be conducted within the Open Category, an operational authorization within the Specific Category is generally required. Under certain conditions, STS-01 or STS-02 can make this process significantly easier.
Operations requiring authorization include flights near people or buildings, professional industrial operations, BVLOS flights, or individual operational scenarios outside standard regulations.
The authorization is issued by the German Federal Aviation Office (LBA) and is often based on an individual operational concept or a SORA risk assessment.
We support companies and professional drone pilots from preparation to full operational authorization, including consulting, documentation, and guidance throughout the entire process.
Which training is suitable for companies or teams?
For companies, authorities, or teams with multiple pilots, individually tailored training and operational solutions are often recommended.
Depending on the operational requirements, this can range from A1/A3 and A2 to STS and complete operational authorizations.
Especially for professional applications such as inspection, photogrammetry, public safety operations, or industrial flights, individual consultation is highly recommended to ensure that training, drone systems, and authorizations fit together optimally.
For individual solutions or team training, contact us directly at: info@proflycenter.com
