A2 Certificate of Competency (A2 CofC): A Complete UK Overview

What the A2 CofC is

The A2 Certificate of Competency, usually shortened to A2 CofC, is a pilot qualification within the UK Open Category. It demonstrates that you understand the rules and risk-management principles needed to fly certain drones nearer to people than the default Open Category rules allow. It sits at the upper end of the Open Category, in the subcategory known as A2.

The A2 CofC does not move you into the Specific Category. It widens what you can do within the Open Category. If your intended operations fall outside the Open Category entirely, you would instead look at the General VLOS Certificate (GVC), which is the entry point to the Specific Category.

Who issues the A2 CofC

The A2 CofC is issued by a Recognised Assessment Entity (RAE). An RAE is an organisation that the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has recognised to deliver and assess A2 CofC training. The CAA itself does not run the courses or mark the examinations. This is a common point of confusion — your certificate comes from the RAE, under the framework the CAA sets out.

What it allows you to fly

The headline benefit of the A2 CofC concerns C2-class drones. With an A2 CofC, you may fly a C2-marked drone in subcategory A2, which permits flight as close as 30m horizontally from uninvolved people. In low-speed mode, that minimum reduces to 5m. Without the A2 CofC, a heavier drone would be subject to the wider separation distances of subcategory A3.

For legacy drones that carry no class mark, transitional arrangements apply, and the practical effect of the A2 CofC differs. It is important to read the current CAP 722 guidance for the specific drone you fly, because the rules depend on weight and class marking.

How you obtain it

Obtaining the A2 CofC involves study followed by a theory examination delivered by your chosen RAE. There is also a practical element handled through a self-assessment declaration, in which you confirm you have carried out the practical flying preparation the syllabus describes. You do not need to attend an in-person flight test for the A2 CofC in the way some other qualifications require.

A2 CofC versus GVC at a glance

The A2 CofC keeps you in the Open Category but unlocks closer flight with C2 drones. The GVC takes you into the Specific Category and is paired with an operational authorisation. Many pilots only ever need the A2 CofC; those planning more complex or commercial-scale operations often progress to the GVC.

Is the A2 CofC right for you?

If you fly a C2-class drone and want to operate nearer to people in built-up or populated settings, the A2 CofC is the relevant qualification. If you only fly a sub-250g drone or operate well away from people, you may not need it at all. Reviewing your typical missions against the subcategory rules is the quickest way to decide.