Drone aptitude certificate: how to obtain it easily in 2025?

• Summary
• Understanding the Drone Aptitude Certificate (CATS) in 2025
• Drones Compatible with STS-01 and STS-02 Scenarios
• Major Differences Between the CATS and the Former CATT
• CATS Exam Process: Procedures and Practical Advice
• Detailed CATS Exam Schedule
• Effective Strategies for Preparing for the CATS Exam
• The Importance of Practical Training in STS Scenarios
• Why Passing the Drone CATS is Crucial in 2025
• FAQ: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About the Drone CATS

Understanding the Drone Aptitude Certificate (CATS) in 2025

Since the implementation of harmonized European drone regulations, the Remote Pilot Theoretical Aptitude Certificate for Standard Scenarios, or CATS, has become an essential requirement for all professional remote pilots. This certificate governs drone piloting in populated areas (STS-01) and in out-of-sight mode (STS-02), in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2019/947. This is a legal requirement for any drone activity that goes beyond simple recreation. The CATS is certified by an official theoretical exam, assessing specific knowledge of regulations, flight safety, aeronautics, and operational procedures. Obtaining it is now required if you wish to legally operate missions such as aerial photography in urban areas, technical inspections, topographic surveys, or video recording in urban areas—sectors where demand will remain particularly high in 2025.This certification is not a formality to be taken lightly. The remote pilot must demonstrate a thorough understanding of the regulations in force, perfectly adapted to the challenges of modern air traffic and the safety of third parties on the ground. Certain complex rules, such as the management of prohibited or restricted areas, flight risk management, and understanding of meteorological phenomena, are at the heart of the assessment.

It is important to note that the CATS is a European-recognized certification, which means that your diploma opens doors beyond France’s borders, in all EU member states. This provides a significant advantage to anyone wishing to develop a professional activity internationally. The CATS permanently replaces the CATT, the former national certificate, which expires on December 31, 2025. This development aims to simplify and standardize the rules to encourage a more dynamic European drone market. Here’s a summary list of the key points to remember about the CATS:

🎯 Mandatory certification for professional operations in STS-01 (flight in populated areas) and STS-02 (flight beyond visual line of sight) scenarios.

📋 Theoretical test consisting of 40 multiple-choice questions.

⏰ Exam duration: 60 minutes, with a score of at least 75% required to pass.

• 📆 Validity: 5 years, after which a repeat test is required to maintain compliance.
• 🛠️ Mandatory supplement: practical training and certification for STS scenario operations.
• 🌍 European-wide recognition, facilitating professional mobility. Aspect
• Key Information
• Certification
• Remote Pilot Theoretical Aptitude Certificate (CATS)

. Discover our complete guide to drone certification in France. Learn the requirements, steps to follow, and training required to obtain your drone pilot license. Ensure you comply with the regulations and fly safely! Drones Compatible with STS-01 and STS-02 Scenarios CATS certification does not apply to all drones. Only aircraft that meet strict technical criteria, particularly those classified inclasses C5

C6

, can operate in the STS-01 and STS-02 scenarios. These classifications are derived from European standards designed to ensure a high level of safety in remote piloting. Class C5 drones are intended for visual flight in populated areas (STS-01). They integrate specific technical systems such as anti-collision devices, geofencing devices, and advanced flight safety features. Among the best-known models are: 🚁 DJI Mavic 3 Pro, 3E, and other certified versions, often modifiable using kits such as those developed by DroneVolt or Dronavia.

🚁

• Cavok UAS CK9 , popular for complex technical operations.🚁
• Aerobotic Agry X4 and Spray models , suitable for agricultural and industrial missions.🚁
• DJI Matrice 350 RTK equipped with C5 compliance systems.🚁
• SenseFly Surveyor Tethered , specialized in stationary surveillance missions. For the STS-02 scenario, which allows for out-of-sight flight (BVLOS), Class C6 is required. These drones feature advanced systems for GPS tracking, long-distance video transmission, and safety system redundancy. Compatible models include:
• 🚁 Aerobotic Spray S, L, and X4, used particularly in precision agriculture.

🚁

• AgEagle eBee Series , renowned for photogrammetry and mapping.🚁
• Cavok UAS CK9, CK23, CK25 , suitable for complex flights over long distances.🚁
• Delair UX11 , popular for high-precision topographic surveys.🚁
• DJI Matrice 3D and 3DT , customized to Class C6 via certified kits. 🚁Nokia Drone Networks NDN Electric
• , specializing in critical network monitoring. ScenarioDrone Class
• Representative Models 🚀 STS-01 (flight in populated areas)C5

AeroSense , andFlyability are developing compatible drones or pursuing certification. Even major players such asAirBus and Groupe ADP are taking an interest in this regulatory development, integrating these devices into their urban or industrial operations. This strict selection process ensures safety in environments where the margin of error must be minimal, such as in urban areas or during extended out-of-sight flights. It also encourages remote pilots to equip themselves carefully and to master the models they are adapting to perfectly. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZaJL6l7FCyA Major differences between CATS and the former CATT Until the end of 2025, the CATT (Certificat d’Aptitude Théorique Télépilote), 100% French, coexists with the CATS. However, the latter will become the mandatory reference starting in 2026, with the gradual disappearance of national scenarios S1, S2, and S3, replaced by standardized European scenarios.

Here are the key differences that illustrate this transition to the CATS:

Geographic scope:

The CATT was valid only within France, while the CATS is recognized throughout the European Union, offering increased mobility to remote pilots. 📌 Usage scenarios:

The CATT was used primarily for scenarios S1 (visual flight over built-up areas), S2 (out-of-sight flight), and S3 (flight in built-up areas with restrictions). The CATS targets the European scenarios STS-01 (flight in populated areas) and STS-02 (out-of-sight flight), which are more precise and restrictive regarding the drones and devices used. 📌

• Technical Skills: The CATS requires a heightened understanding of specific European regulations, advanced navigation tools (GPS), and harmonized European-wide operational procedures. 📌
• Exam Format and Organization: The CATS offers a uniform theoretical test based on 40 multiple-choice questions, while the CATT had a more national content and sometimes varied depending on the organization. Making the switch to the CATS represents an opportunity for professional remote pilots: better guarantees of compliance throughout Europe, but also increased visibility among customers and partners who value a recognized and robust certification.
• The transition is therefore an essential step: pilots holding the CATT must absolutely consider converting before the end of 2025 to avoid falling outside the law. Criterion CATT CATS
• Geographical Validity France only European Union

Scenarios

S1, S2, S3

Option 2: Online exam via approved platforms

Since 2024, remote working and distance learning have convinced the DGAC (French Directorate General for Civil Aviation) to authorize the CATS exam to be administered 100% online. Several approved private European platforms allow anyone with a computer equipped with a webcam and a reliable connection to take the test in their own environment:

💻 Computer with webcam and microphone, stable internet connection.

👤 Live visual identification, control of the exam environment.

• 📝 Compliance with a strict anti-fraud charter with video recording.
• ⏳ 60 minutes to answer the 40 multiple-choice questions.
• 💳 Cost generally around €30, payable upon registration.
• This method greatly facilitates access to the exam, particularly for candidates changing careers or those working remotely. However, it requires increased personal discipline to avoid distractions and interruptions.
• Method

Main Features

Advantages

Disadvantages

• Face-to-Face DGAC (OCEANE)
• Physical examination center, equipment provided, human supervision
• Anti-fraud security, strict supervision
• Travel required, pressure in the room
• Online via private platforms

Remote administration, video monitoring, self-management

Know how to read a METAR, understand hazardous weather conditions, and plan for flight plan adjustments.

🛠️

• General UAS Knowledge: Drone technologies, basic maintenance, and flight mechanics. 🏃‍♂️
• Human Performance: Physical and psychological limitations, stress and fatigue management to maximize safety. ⚠️
• Risk Management: Anticipate and reduce hazards on the ground and in flight. Understand the role of emergency procedures and evasive maneuvers. 📋
• Operational procedures: Flight plan development, material preparation, communication and response in the event of incidents or accidents. Subject Area Key Points Covered
• Importance Aviation Regulations Restrictions, Obligations, Airspace Classes
• 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Navigation Aerial Charts, GPS, Location Tracking
• 🌟🌟🌟🌟 Meteorology METAR Reading, Weather Forecasting

⏱️ Simulate practice exams in real conditions to get used to the limited time. 🤝 Don’t hesitate to request personalized support or tutoring to clarify any complex issues.

📊 Track your progress to adjust your course.

DroneVolt remote training or in-person sessions with providers such as

Flyability

1. or
2. Skywalker offer tailored modules, incorporating regular content updates. Active learning through role-playing, reading concrete examples, and interactive exercises guarantee robust preparation. Please note: this is not a simple administrative step, but an investment in your professional future. The CATS demonstrates your credibility and mastery of the rules governing the growth of drones in Europe. AdviceAdvantage
3. Recommended resources 📚
4. Up-to-date materials
5. Precise and current knowledge
6. prepa-drone courses, drone expertise

Certified training Professional supervision, updates douzedrones.fr, dronevolt Thematic multiple-choice questions Identifying weaknesses

Online training, tutorials

Passing the CATS drone exam in 2025 is more than an obligation: it’s a long-term investment in a booming profession. The growing complexity of operations, the diversity of application areas, and the pressure for maximum safety require a high level of qualification. The missions accessible via a CATS are varied:

📷 Aerial capture in urban environments, explored by many professionals.

🔧 Technical inspections of structures such as antennas and industrial infrastructure.

• 🛰️ Out-of-Sight (BVLOS) operations, particularly for network surveillance or precision agriculture.
• 🎥 Capture for filming and events, with high stability and safety requirements.
• 🏙️ Collaborations with local authorities or large groups such as Groupe ADP in urban management and logistics.
• CATS also opens doors to international markets, an advantage not to be overlooked when looking to expand your business in Europe or collaborate with renowned companies such as AirBus.

Finally, having this certificate reassures end-user customers, combining regulatory security with professional quality. Certification therefore helps build a solid image of reliability and expertise in a sector that is inherently innovative and technical.

Advantages of the CATS drone 🎯

Description

Flights in dense and out-of-sight areas, multiplying the possible missions

European recognition

Professional mobility throughout the European Union

• Added value for professional customers
• Certification as a guarantee of reliability and regulatory compliance
• Openness to innovative sectors
• Precision agriculture, security, surveying, audiovisual
• FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about the CATS drone Q1: Is it possible to take the CATS exam without prior training? A: Theoretically yes, but strongly discouraged. The complexity of the content justifies serious preparation to pass the 40 multiple-choice questions.

Q2: What is the validity of the CATS certificate? A: The certificate is valid for 5 years. After that, you must retake the exam to maintain your STS flight privileges. Q3: Does the CATS provide access to all types of professional flights?A: No, it is specific to the STS-01 and STS-02 scenarios. For other scenarios, different certifications or operator declarations are required.

Q4: How do I know if my drone complies with class C5 or C6?