A2 CofC vs GVC: Which Drone Qualification Do You Need?

The core distinction

The A2 CofC and the GVC are different qualifications for different kinds of flying. The A2 Certificate of Competency sits at the upper end of the Open Category. The General VLOS Certificate (GVC) is the entry point to the Specific Category. Understanding which category your operations fall into is the key to choosing.

What the A2 CofC is for

The A2 CofC widens what you can do within the Open Category. Its main benefit is allowing flight of C2-class drones in subcategory A2 — as close as 30m horizontally from uninvolved people, or 5m in low-speed mode. If your flying stays within Open Category limits but you want to operate closer to people with a C2 drone, the A2 CofC is the relevant qualification.

What the GVC is for

The GVC is required when your intended operations go beyond what the Open Category permits — for example, certain operations that need an operational authorisation from the CAA. The GVC is typically paired with an operating safety case or a standard scenario and is the foundation for Specific Category flying.

Comparing the two

• Category: A2 CofC = Open Category; GVC = Specific Category entry.
• Assessment: The A2 CofC has a theory examination and a practical self-assessment declaration. The GVC generally involves theory plus a practical flight assessment and an operations manual.
• Scope: The A2 CofC unlocks closer flight with C2 drones; the GVC underpins more complex operations requiring authorisation.
• Effort and cost: The GVC is generally more involved and more expensive than the A2 CofC.

Which do you need?

If your typical missions stay within the Open Category and you simply want to fly a C2 drone nearer to people, the A2 CofC is usually enough. If you plan operations that exceed Open Category limits — and so require an operational authorisation — you will need the GVC. Many pilots start with the A2 CofC and progress to the GVC only when their flying demands it.

Can you hold both?

Yes. Some pilots hold both qualifications because their flying spans both categories, and some providers offer combined training. Whether that is worthwhile depends on the range of operations you actually carry out.