Formation théorique et examen en ligne STS (CATS)
Requirement: you have obtained the EU Drone License (A1-A3 and A2), or you order it together with this training. Get it online. After passing, you pay €20 in application costs for the STS certificate.
“Very fast reply even on weekends. Training easy to understand. Passed all exams first try.”
“I had taken other courses in the past very difficult to learn. But this course is fantatic, easier to read, understand and comprehend. …”
“Fast and easy access to the course. Very educational material. I recommend it.”
“Very well thought out course and perfect as I speak English but live in Spain.”
“The best platform for drone pilots (exam) in the EU. . .”
How to get your STS theory certificate
Online, at your own pace. You decide when you take the exam.
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Instant access
Start online right away
After ordering you get instant access to the learning environment, for 90 days.
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About 20 hours
Learn at your own pace
Short modules with explanations and practice questions. On average you spend about 20 hours.
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Free resits
Take the online exam
30 multiple-choice questions, whenever you are ready. Resits are free.
Your certificate comes from the RDW
Once you pass, you apply for it for €20. It is valid for 5 years in the EU, Norway, Iceland and Switzerland.
What you learn in the theory
The theory goes further than the EU Drone License, but it is very doable. Among other things, you learn:
- STS, PDRA and SORA: what they mean, their procedures and limits, and which route fits your flight.
- EU legislation: the rules behind the specific category.
- Risk analysis and flight plan: assessing risks and writing a flight plan, with our free template.
- Charts and navigation: reading and using aeronautical charts.
- Flying beyond visual line of sight: what BVLOS and EVLOS involve.
- Your own operation: how to prepare it and carry it out safely, with practical tips.
The exam has 30 multiple-choice questions and does not overlap with the EU Drone License exams.
Frequently asked questions about the theory
Everything you want to know before you start.
Another question? Email us at info@dronelicense.eu
Can I fly in the specific category straight after the training?
Not with the certificate alone. The certificate shows that you as a pilot have the knowledge. You always fly under a company or organisation (the operator) with an STS declaration or an authorisation from the national aviation authority, even if that is your own company.
Do I need A1-A3 and A2 first?
Yes. You need the EU Drone License (A1-A3 and A2), or you order that training together with this one. Get it online with us.
How long does it take?
On average about 20 hours. You learn at your own pace and have 90 days of access to the learning environment.
How does the exam work?
You take an online exam of 30 multiple-choice questions, whenever you are ready. Resits are free. The exam does not overlap with the EU Drone License exams.
What does the certificate cost?
After passing, you pay €20 in application costs. The RDW then issues the STS theory certificate as a PDF.
How long is the certificate valid?
Five years, in the EU and in Norway, Iceland and Switzerland. The certificate covers STS-01, STS-02 and all PDRAs. The RDW issues it as a PDF.
Do I need practical training?
Yes. EU rules require flight skills from the drone pilot, for example for an STS-01, PDRA-S01 or other VLOS flight. There is no EASA practical certificate. In the Netherlands you need practical training, and this can be the case in other EU countries as well.
What is the difference between STS, PDRA and SORA?
They are three ways to be allowed to fly in the specific category. For a standard scenario (STS), your company submits a declaration. For a PDRA or SORA, it applies for an authorisation from the national aviation authority. If you want as much freedom as possible, we recommend a SORA.
Do I need a medical examination?
No. In the specific category no medical examination is required for the drone pilot.
Experiences with the STS (CATS) theory training
Written by pilots who completed this training with us.
No A1-A3 or A2 yet?
For the specific category you first need the EU Drone License with A2. Get it online in 1 day, then continue with STS.