EU Remote Pilot Certificate

Your Drone Pilot Certificate, Always With You

Upload your EU remote pilot certificate PDF and convert it into an Apple Wallet pass. No more searching for paper documents — your drone license is always on your phone.

LogoEU Remote Pilot Certificate
PILOT NAME
Max Mustermann
REGISTRATION NUMBER
DEU-RP-x7k9m2pw
CATEGORIES
A1/A3, A2
ISSUED BY
LBA (Germany)
EXPIRES
08.03.2031

What Is a Drone Pilot Certificate?

A drone pilot certificate — officially called the EU Remote Pilot Certificate of Competency — is a mandatory qualification under EU Regulation 2019/947. It demonstrates that you have completed the required training and passed the theory examination to operate drones in the Open Category across the European Union.

The certificate comes in two levels: A1/A3 (basic) and A2 (advanced). The A1/A3 certificate covers flying lightweight drones near people and heavier drones in open areas. The A2 certificate is an additional qualification that permits flying drones up to 4kg closer to uninvolved people, requiring extra practical training and a proctored exam.

Every EU country issues the drone pilot certificate through its own national aviation authority — the LBA in Germany, the RDW in the Netherlands, the DGAC in France, and so on. Despite being issued nationally, your certificate is recognized across all EU and EFTA member states thanks to the harmonized EASA framework.

Once you receive your certificate as a PDF document, you can convert it into a digital wallet pass with drone-pass.com — making it instantly accessible on your phone whenever you need to present it.

Who Needs a Drone Pilot Certificate?

Recreational

Hobbyist Pilots

Anyone flying a drone weighing 250g or more, or any drone equipped with a camera, needs at least the A1/A3 drone pilot certificate. This applies even if you only fly for fun — the regulation makes no distinction between recreational and commercial use at this level.

Commercial

Professional Pilots

Commercial drone operators typically need proper certification beyond A1/A3. The A2 certificate allows flying closer to people with heavier drones, while Specific Category operations require additional authorization from your national aviation authority.

How to Get Your Certificate

1

Register as a drone operator

Create an account with your national aviation authority (e.g., LBA, RDW, DGAC) and register as a UAS operator. You'll receive a unique operator registration number.

2

Complete online training modules

Work through the official training material covering airspace rules, weather, drone regulations, safety procedures, and privacy requirements.

3

Pass the A1/A3 theory exam

Take the online multiple-choice exam consisting of 40 questions. You need to score at least 75% to pass. The exam can be retaken if needed.

4

Download your certificate PDF

After passing, download your official EU Remote Pilot Certificate of Competency as a PDF document from your national authority's portal.

5

Convert to a digital wallet pass

Upload your certificate PDF to drone-pass.com, pay €2.99, and receive your Apple Wallet pass instantly — always accessible on your phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a drone pilot certificate?
A drone pilot certificate is an official EU document issued under Regulation 2019/947 that proves your competency to fly drones in the Open Category. It is formally called the "EU Remote Pilot Certificate of Competency" and is issued by your national aviation authority (e.g., LBA in Germany, RDW in the Netherlands, DGAC in France) after you pass the required online theory exam.
Is the drone pilot certificate mandatory?
Yes. Under EU regulations, a drone pilot certificate is mandatory for anyone flying a drone weighing 250 grams or more, or any drone equipped with a camera — regardless of weight. Flying without a valid certificate can result in fines that vary by country, ranging from several hundred to several thousand euros.
How long does the drone pilot certificate last?
The drone pilot certificate is valid for 5 years from the date of issue. To renew it, you need to complete an online refresher course and pass the theory exam again before your certificate expires. The renewal process is typically shorter and simpler than the initial certification.
Can I use my drone pilot certificate in other EU countries?
Yes. Under the mutual recognition principle of EU Regulation 2019/947, your drone pilot certificate is valid across all EU and EFTA member states. A certificate issued in any one country — whether Germany, France, the Netherlands, or any other member state — is equally recognized in all others.
How do I digitize my drone pilot certificate?
Simply upload your drone pilot certificate PDF to drone-pass.com, pay a one-time fee of €2.99, and receive your Apple Wallet pass instantly. The digital pass includes your name, registration number, categories, expiration date, and a QR code for verification — always accessible on your phone.

Digitize Your Drone Pilot Certificate

Upload your certificate PDF and get your Apple Wallet pass in seconds. One-time payment, no subscription.

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