Drone exam - everything about NAA theory tests

A1/A3, A2 and STS - format, requirements and effective preparation in one place.

What is a drone exam?

A drone exam is a theory test organised by your National Aviation Authority, confirming knowledge under EASA Part-UAS. It runs under controlled conditions with a time limit and minimum pass score.

A2STS is not an exam organiser - we help you prepare with simulations that mirror NAA format.

EU drone exam formats (NAA)

Across the EU, remote pilot qualifications are assessed by your National Aviation Authority. Each category has a different test format - prepare for the exact exam you plan to sit.

A1/A3: 40 questions in 40 minutes (renewal: 20/20). A2: 30/30 min. STS: 60/60 min. All require ≥75% to pass.

  • A1/A3: 40 q, 40 min, 75% threshold
  • A2: 30 q, 30 min, 75% threshold
  • STS: 60 q, 60 min, 75% threshold
  • 5-year renewal - shorter formats per NAA rules

Preparation plan by exam type

A1/A3 - 2-4 weeks of regular study. A2 - 4-6 weeks after A1/A3. STS - 6-8 weeks due to more questions and procedural topics.

A1/A3 path

Start free on A2STS. Aim for ≥80% in simulations before your NAA test.

A2 path

Focus on meteorology, batteries and risk mitigation.

STS path

8 syllabus areas, procedures, VLOS/BVLOS distinctions.

How to book your NAA drone exam

First, register as a drone operator in your national UAS portal and obtain an operator registration number. Without it you cannot fly registered aircraft legally or book a qualification exam.

When ready, select the qualification level (A1/A3, A2 or STS), pay the NAA fee and receive your exam slot. Format (online or in-person) depends on your authority.

  • Register operator and aircraft in the national UAS system
  • Choose qualification level (A1/A3 → A2 → STS as needed)
  • Prepare with timed simulations (A2STS)
  • Book the official exam and follow NAA rules on the day

Why prepare with A2STS?

  • Official-format exam simulations

    A1/A3, A2 and STS practice tests match official question counts, time limits and the 75% pass threshold - you prepare for the real exam, not a random quiz.

  • 545++ question bank

    Comprehensive questions with explanations, topics and spaced repetition (SRS). See weak areas and track progress in real time.

  • Free A1/A3 foundation

    Sign up in about a minute. Full A1/A3 theory and tests are free with no expiry. Premium unlocks A2/STS full simulations only.

  • Prepare anywhere

    Study on phone, tablet or desktop. You still take the official exam at your National Aviation Authority (NAA) - A2STS helps you prepare more efficiently.

Prepare for your NAA exam today

Start free with the A1/A3 foundation. Premium A2 and STS simulations - one-time payment, no subscription.

Trust and transparency

Not an NAA partner - clear role
A2STS is a preparation platform. Official certificates and exams are organised by your National Aviation Authority. We are not affiliated with any NAA.
EASA regulations kept current
Content follows EU Part-UAS requirements and common NAA practice. Transparent information on categories, validity and renewal.
9 in 10 candidates pass
Structured preparation with simulations and topic drills delivers stable results. Start free and benchmark your level before booking the official test.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take the drone exam online?
Your NAA sets the format - often online or in-person. Check their website for current options.
How many retakes are allowed?
Your NAA sets retake rules and fees. Prepare thoroughly with simulations first.
Does an A2STS simulation count officially?
No - A2STS simulations are for preparation only. Only your NAA issues the certificate.

Pilot reviews

  • The timed simulator mirrors the official 30-question, 30-minute session. I passed A2 on the first attempt after two weeks of topic drills - far more reliable than scattered PDFs.

    Marcus W. - A2 passed

  • Question wording and pacing felt like the real exam. Wrong-answer explanations fixed my airspace gaps in days, not weeks - I walked in knowing exactly where I stood.

    Sofia R. - First attempt

  • The learning hub kept STS prep alongside A2 without juggling tools. Progress tracking and one-time access - no subscription churn - made it easy to justify to my team.

    James P. - A2 + STS

Register and start learning

Sign-up takes about a minute. You still take the official exam at your NAA - A2STS helps you prepare more efficiently.