A2 CofC Requirements: Who Can Apply in the UK

The A2 Certificate of Competency (A2 CofC) is the pilot qualification that unlocks the A2 subcategory of the Open Category in the UK. This guide sets out the main requirements so you can see whether you are eligible and what the route involves.

The core requirements

1. Register with an RAE. The A2 CofC is issued by a Recognised Assessment Entity, not directly by the CAA, so you begin by choosing and registering with one.
2. Meet the minimum age. There is a minimum age to hold the certificate, which is lower than the age to operate as the responsible operator.
3. Pass the theory examination. The RAE sets a multiple-choice examination covering air safety, airspace, privacy and operational limits.
4. Complete the practical self-assessment. You declare that you have familiarised yourself with flying your drone safely.

Registration: Operator ID and Flyer ID

Separately from the A2 CofC, most drone activity requires an Operator ID for the person or organisation responsible for the drone, and a Flyer ID for the person flying it. These are obtained through the CAA's registration service. The A2 CofC complements, rather than replaces, these IDs.

Equipment requirements

The A2 CofC is most useful with a C2 class-marked drone, which lets you use the reduced distances from uninvolved people that the subcategory allows. It can also apply to certain legacy drones under transitional arrangements, though the distances differ. If you only fly a sub-250 g drone, you generally do not need an A2 CofC at all.

Knowledge requirements

You are expected to understand the rules well enough to pass the theory examination on merit. The syllabus reflects practical safety knowledge, and we describe its content without publishing examination answers.

Where the A2 CofC sits

The A2 CofC is the highest qualification within the Open Category. If your planned operations exceed what the Open Category permits, the next step is the General VLOS Certificate (GVC), which opens the door to the Specific Category. Understanding this boundary helps you decide whether the A2 CofC is sufficient for your needs.

Putting it together

In summary, the requirements are: register with an RAE, meet the age threshold, pass the theory examination, complete the practical self-assessment, and hold the necessary Operator and Flyer IDs. Confirm the current detail of each with CAA and RAE guidance before you apply.