Certificates

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What certificate do I need?

No certificate is required to fly drones under 250g. Nevertheless, it is strongly recommended to complete at least the A1/A3 training. For all people flying drones over 250g, a certificate is mandatory. The amount of training and testing depends on the subcategory (A1, A2, A3) in which the drone is flown. More information can be found in the open category.

Overview of the certificates

  • A1/A3: Persons who want to operate a drone in subcategory A1 or A3 need the A1/A3 certificate for this. The training and as well as the exam for the A1/A3 certificate of competence can be completed from home via dLIS[open category]
  • A2: People who want to operate a drone in the subcategory A2 need the A2 certificate for this. Anyone wishing to take a remote pilot certificate (A2) must first pass the certificate of competence exam (A1/A3). For the A2 exam, additional learning content must be learned, as well as a practical training course completed independently. The remote pilot knowledge acquired through self-study is then self-declared in dLIS. The A2 examination itself is a written multiple-choice examination, which is taken at the FOCA examination locations in Ittigen, Illnau and Lausanne. [open category]
  • STS: A theory exam for remote pilots that intend to fly according to an STS is available via UAS Gate and provided by FOCA. More information about STS theory exam content and about the practical assessment can be found under specific categeory european standard scenarios. Please note that in order to fly according to the STS an authorization is still necessary. [specific category]

Do you have questions about how to obtain your certificate, where to register for exams, and what the process involves? Click here for all the information!


More information about the certificates

A2 and STS drone exam on site

The A2 and STS exams, which are conducted on site, can now be taken at 3 different locations in Switzerland. The existing Ittigen site will be joined by Hotzehuus in Illnau and La Blécherette airfield in Lausanne.

Next available exam dates 2025

  February March April Mai June
Ittigen (BE) 04.02.2025 06.03.2025 02.04.2025 15.05.2025 10.06.2025
Illnau (ZH) 18.02.2025 - - 08.05.2025 -
Lausanne (VD) 20.02.2025 - 24.04.2025 - -

Details on individual locations

Do you have any further questions about the certificates?

Please refer to the FAQs.

 

Last modification 15.04.2025

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