22 May 2026 · 7 min read
How to Pass the EASA A1/A3 Drone Exam in Greece (2026)
Every recreational drone pilot in Greece must complete the EASA A1/A3 online training before flying most consumer drones. Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) administers registration and the proof-of-completion test; the certificate does not expire once issued. After A1/A3, upgrade to A2 if you fly C2-class drones closer to people — see our A2 guide for Greece below.
The A1/A3 certificate covers open category subcategories A1 and A3. Your NAA (Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA)) hosts the free online test.
Key facts
- Exam format
- 40 questions, online, typically no strict time limit (varies by NAA portal)
- Fee
- Free (online)
- Administered by
- Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA)
- Certificate validity
- No expiry (lifetime)
- Valid in
- All 31 EASA member states
A1/A3 vs A2 — what's the difference?
| A1/A3 | A2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Fee | Free (online) | ~€30 |
| Format | Online | In-person at authorised centre |
| Expiry | No expiry | 5 years |
| Required for | Most open-category drones | C2 class / closer to people |
Step-by-step process in Greece
- Register with Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA). Create your pilot profile on the national UAS portal.
- Complete online training. Study the ten syllabus areas on A2STS, then pass the official-style practice tests.
- Take the A1/A3 test online. Use the NAA portal when you are scoring consistently above the pass mark.
- Keep proof of completion. Download your certificate — it remains valid without renewal.
What topics does the A1/A3 exam cover?
- Regulatory framework
- Limitations of UAS operations
- Airspace, air traffic and airspace restrictions
- Aviation meteorology
- UAS flight performance
- Technical and operational mitigations for ground risk
- Human performance
- Privacy and data protection
- Insurance
- Security
How to prepare
Work through each topic once, then run practice blocks until you reliably reach the pass threshold. A1/A3 is free on most NAAs — invest time in preparation instead of retakes.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the A1/A3 exam the same in Greece as in other EU countries?
- Yes. The syllabus is harmonised under EASA. Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) hosts the online session locally but the knowledge standard is the same across all 31 member states.
- How long is the A1/A3 certificate valid in Greece?
- A1/A3 proof of online training does not expire. You only need to renew if regulations require a refresher in your member state.
- Can I take the A1/A3 exam online in Greece?
- Yes. A1/A3 is designed as an online test (Online exam via the NAA portal (TKA e-services)). Use the national portal linked below.
A1/A3 guides for nearby countries
Related resources
A2STS is not affiliated with Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) or EASA. Official exams are administered by your NAA.