22 May 2026 · 8 min read
How to Pass the EASA A2 Drone Exam in Portugal (2026)
The EASA open-category A2 certificate (Certificado de competência A2) is recognised across all 31 EASA member states, but the theoretical exam is organised nationally. In Portugal, your National Aviation Authority is Autoridade Nacional da Aviação Civil (ANAC), which publishes booking rules, fees in EUR, and the list of authorised exam centres. Use Autoridade Nacional da Aviação Civil (ANAC) guidance for booking, then prepare with topic-based practice and full timed simulations before your classroom session.
The open category A2 certificate is harmonised across EASA states. Your NAA (Autoridade Nacional da Aviação Civil (ANAC)) 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
- Autoridade Nacional da Aviação Civil (ANAC)
- Certificate validity
- 5 years
- Valid in
- All 31 EASA member states
- A2 exam fee
- ~€30 (in-person at authorised centre)
Step-by-step process in Portugal
- 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 Autoridade Nacional da Aviação Civil (ANAC). Create an account on the national portal and book your Certificado de competência 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 Autoridade Nacional da Aviação Civil (ANAC).
Frequently asked questions
- Is the EASA A2 exam the same in Portugal as in other EU countries?
- Yes. The syllabus and pass standard (30 questions, 75% pass mark, 23/30 correct) are harmonised under EASA. Autoridade Nacional da Aviação Civil (ANAC) administers the session locally, but the certificate is valid throughout the EASA system once issued.
- How long is the A2 certificate valid in Portugal?
- The remote pilot certificate of competency is valid for 5 years across EASA states, including Portugal. Renewal follows your NAA process—often a shorter refresher exam before expiry.
- Can I take the A2 exam online in Portugal?
- No. Unlike A1/A3 (which many NAAs allow online), the A2 theoretical exam is taken in person at an authorised centre. Autoridade Nacional da Aviação Civil (ANAC) lists approved locations and registration steps on its website.
Pilots in nearby countries also prepare on A2STS
Related resources
A2STS is not affiliated with Autoridade Nacional da Aviação Civil (ANAC) or EASA. Official exams are administered by your NAA.