22 May 2026 · 8 min read
How to Pass the EASA A2 Drone Exam in Ireland (2026)
The EASA open-category A2 certificate (Remote pilot certificate of competency (A2)) is recognised across all 31 EASA member states, but the theoretical exam is organised nationally. In Ireland, your National Aviation Authority is Irish Aviation Authority (IAA), which publishes booking rules, fees in EUR, and the list of authorised exam centres. Ireland participates in EASA; cross-border recognition applies within the EASA system. Use official NAA guidance alongside structured practice before you sit the classroom test.
The open category A2 certificate is harmonised across EASA states. Your NAA (Irish Aviation Authority (IAA)) administers the in-person exam; flights remain VLOS unless you hold specific-category authorisation.
Key facts
- Exam format
- 30 questions, 30 minutes, 75% pass threshold (23/30)
- Administered by
- Irish Aviation Authority (IAA)
- Certificate validity
- 5 years
- Valid in
- All 31 EASA member states
- A2 exam fee
- ~€40 (in-person at authorised centre)
Step-by-step process in Ireland
- Study theory. Complete A1/A3 first, then work through A2 syllabus topics on a2sts.eu with timed practice and full 30-question simulations.
- Register with Irish Aviation Authority (IAA). Create an account on the national portal and book your Remote pilot certificate of competency (A2) session when you consistently score above the pass mark in practice.
- Take the exam at an authorised centre. Arrive with ID required by your NAA; the test follows the standard EASA multiple-choice format (Theoretical exam at the NAA (in-person classroom)).
- Receive your Remote Pilot Certificate. After passing, your certificate is issued nationally and recognised for A2 operations across EASA states.
What topics does the A2 exam cover?
The theoretical exam draws from eight EASA syllabus areas. Prepare each topic before attempting a full simulation:
- Air space, air traffic and airspace restrictions
- UAS regulations
- Human performance limitations
- Meteorology
- UAS flight performance
- Technical and operational mitigations for ground risk
- Technical and operational mitigations for air risk
- Insurance requirements
See our A2 exam overview for format details, or the STS exam page if you also need specific category operations.
How to prepare
Random question drills are not enough for A2: you need topic coverage, explanation review, and at least one full 30-minute simulation under exam conditions. A2STS mirrors the official 30-question layout and 75% pass threshold so you know when you are ready to book with Irish Aviation Authority (IAA).
Frequently asked questions
- Is the EASA A2 exam the same in Ireland as in other EU countries?
- Yes. The syllabus and pass standard (30 questions, 75% pass mark, 23/30 correct) are harmonised under EASA. Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) administers the session locally, but the certificate is valid throughout the EASA system once issued.
- How long is the A2 certificate valid in Ireland?
- The remote pilot certificate of competency is valid for 5 years across EASA states, including Ireland. Renewal follows your NAA process—often a shorter refresher exam before expiry.
- Can I take the A2 exam online in Ireland?
- No. Unlike A1/A3 (which many NAAs allow online), the A2 theoretical exam is taken in person at an authorised centre. Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) lists approved locations and registration steps on its website.
Pilots in nearby countries also prepare on A2STS
Related resources
A2STS is not affiliated with Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) or EASA. Official exams are administered by your NAA.