AI literacy
Also called article 4 AI literacy
AI literacy is the knowledge and skill people need to use, build or oversee AI systems with an understanding of their opportunities, risks and possible harms. Under Article 4 of the EU AI Act, providers and deployers of AI systems take measures to support AI literacy among staff and others who handle AI for them.
How it works
At a bank or insurer, AI literacy work starts with an inventory of who uses or oversees AI. Training is then matched to each role. A claims handler using a model needs different knowledge from a model validator or a board member. Firms record the training given, the materials used and how the measures fit the systems in use.
Article 4 has applied since 2 February 2025 and covers every provider and deployer, whatever the risk tier. The AI omnibus, Regulation (EU) 2026/1744, recast the duty so firms support AI literacy rather than guarantee a set level for each person. Supervisors still expect staff using AI to understand its limits, which affects human oversight and complaint handling.
The rules
Requires providers and deployers to take measures on AI literacy for staff and other persons dealing with AI systems on their behalf.
Providers and deployers of AI systems in the EURecast Article 4 so firms take measures to support AI literacy without guaranteeing a specific level for each individual, and calls on the Commission and member states to support firms.
Providers and deployers of AI systems in the EUCommon questions
Does AI literacy only apply to high-risk AI?
No. Article 4 applies to all providers and deployers of AI systems covered by the AI Act, whatever the risk category. A firm using a general chatbot for internal work falls within scope, as does one running a credit scoring model.
Is there a mandatory AI literacy certificate?
No. The AI Act does not prescribe a certificate, course format or minimum number of hours. Firms decide what measures fit their staff, their AI systems and the context in which those systems are used.
What changed under the AI omnibus?
Regulation (EU) 2026/1744 removed the wording that firms ensure a sufficient level of AI literacy. Providers and deployers now take measures to support it, while the Commission and member states support their efforts.
Who enforces AI literacy?
National market surveillance authorities supervise the AI Act in each member state. In financial services, member states often give that role to existing financial supervisors for AI used by regulated firms.
