Technical review: Tim Hittinger, Language Proficiency Examiner (A-126-LPE)Is an online test valid for an ENAC licence?
Yes, under the conditions published by ENAC. Since 30 August 2022, ENAC, the Italian Civil Aviation Authority, has accepted online language proficiency tests run by Language Testing Bodies approved by EASA states under FCL.055. There are three conditions:
«[…] a condizione che siano garantite l’identità del candidato, la sicurezza e la riservatezza durante l’intero svolgimento del test.»
“[…] provided that the candidate’s identity, security and confidentiality are guaranteed throughout the entire test.” (our translation) ENAC – “Language Proficiency Requirements” page, check on the ENAC website
Your test is run with LTB 112, a Language Testing Body certified and supervised by Austro Control GmbH, the Austrian civil aviation authority. Austro Control’s rules also explicitly provide for tests in person or online. The final decision on the endorsement rests with ENAC.
ENAC and online tests: all details and sources
How are identity, security and confidentiality ensured?
These are ENAC’s three conditions. Here is how we meet them, from booking to the last question.
How the online test is secured
- ID before the testAfter booking, you send us a copy of your ID card or passport.
- ID check on cameraAt the start, you hold your ID up to the camera and the examiner compares it with you. If you have a licence, you show it too.
- Supervision throughoutThe examiner watches you on video from start to finish, as required by Austro Control’s rules – this rules out unauthorised aids and help from other people.
- Alone, without aidsYou are alone in a quiet room, without notes, dictionaries, translation tools or other apps.
- No recordings by youYou may not record the test, on video or audio: this is an Austro Control rule, and we remind you of it before the test starts. Our terms also rule out AI transcripts.
- ConfidentialityThe test content is not public and your data is processed in line with the GDPR. If you don’t reach Level 4, only you will know – we send nothing to ENAC.
What equipment do you need for the online test?
- Device: a laptop or PC is ideal; smartphones and tablets also work.
- Camera: for the ID check and supervision during the test. Light from the front is better than a window behind you.
- Microphone and sound: a headset with microphone is ideal – it avoids echo and background noise.
- Internet: the most stable connection you have. If you can, use a network cable or sit close to your Wi-Fi router.
- Zoom: app or browser. You don’t need a Zoom account – the link in your confirmation email is enough.
- A quiet room: where you are alone and free from interruptions for the whole test.
How does the test run on Zoom?
- Open the Zoom link from your confirmation email 5 minutes before the start.
- Your examiner admits you to the meeting and checks your ID and – if you have one – your licence.
- After a short briefing, Part I (pictures, questions, read-backs and listening tasks) and Part II (interview) follow.
- After about 30 minutes the test is over. Your certificate arrives by email within 24 hours.
The 30 minutes are not a coincidence: Austro Control’s rules require the whole test to last at least 30 minutes, including an interview of at least 10 minutes. Your calendar slot is 45 minutes, so there is also time for the ID check and the briefing.
Calendar times are Italian time – Italy and Germany are in the same time zone, including summer time.
What if your connection drops?
Rejoin straight away via the same Zoom link – your examiner will discuss with you how to continue. If you can’t get back into the meeting, call us: +49 7072 1352530 (we answer in English or German).
To reduce the risk, use the most stable connection you have, close other applications and keep your device plugged in.
Does the tech check record anything?
No. The check on this page runs entirely in your browser. Camera image and microphone signal are neither stored nor transmitted to us or third parties. As soon as you leave the page or end the test, camera and microphone are switched off.
Frequently asked questions about the online test
Can I take the test on a smartphone or tablet?
Yes. A laptop or PC is ideal, but smartphones and tablets also work. Place your device on a stable stand and use headphones.
Can I take the test from the office, a hotel or abroad?
Yes, from anywhere with a stable connection, as long as you are alone in a quiet room. If you are abroad, remember that calendar times are Italian time.
Can I use notes, a dictionary or a translation tool?
No. No aids and no help from other people are allowed, and the examiner watches you on video throughout. All you need is your ID and – if you have one – your licence.
What if I’m late?
Join as soon as you can: if you are not in the meeting within 15 minutes of the start, you lose your slot. If you already know you can’t make it, reschedule in good time – it’s free up to 24 hours before.