Getting Licensed
How much does skydiving cost?
The cost of skydiving can vary widely, depending on the type of jump, location, and whether or not it is some sort of special event. The typical cost in the US for a licensed skydiver can be anywhere from $15 to $30. Tandem jumps can go from $150 to upwards of $300. Students typically also have to consider the cost of renting gear if they do not own a rig. Rentals can cost from $20 to $40 per jump, on top of the cost of the jump ticket. Typically, you can expect to spend about $6,000 - $10,000 in the first year you are in the sport, and slightly less for each following year (depending mostly on # of jumps).
How old do I have to be to skydive?
In the United States, you must be at least 18 years of age to skydive. This can vary from country to country, so please check with your local parachuting organization.
Are there any physical requirements to skydive?
It is recommended by most drop zones that you be under 220lbs (100kg) due to equipment limitations. Sometimes this can be waived, so check before you head to the drop zone or buy equipment. Most equipment will state any weight restrictions on the warning label. It is recommended to have a doctor clear you before you start skydiving to avoid any unnecessary risks or medical issues.
I have X jumps or X license, can I jump with my friend who is doing a tandem?
Typically no, however, if you have met the requirements set by the tandem mfgr, and both the TI and DZ are ok with it, you may be able to.
Do I have to do a tandem for my first time or can I go solo?
This will vary from dropzone to dropzone, and some may allow you to do your first jump solo with the assistance of certified instructors. This will typically require you to sit in on a first jump course for a few hours on the day before you jump.
Does skydiving feel like a roller coaster?
Typically not. Skydiving is a thrill like no other, but most skydivers don't experience the "stomach drop" sensation found on many roller-coasters, because of the high wind-speeds experienced when exiting a plane. Novelty jumps from balloons and helicopters as well as BASE jumping do provide this sensation.
What are the different training programs to become a skydiver?
AFF - Accelerated Free-Fall**
This program is designed to start a student immediately into freefall skydiving. You will start out with a first jump course (FJC), where you'll learn about topics such as basic safety procedures, equipment, body position in freefall, canopy deployment and control, aircraft procedures, and landing. There are 8 levels to the AFF course - each consisting of a skydive and a set of maneuvers that you must complete before moving on to the next level. The first 3 levels are conducted with two instructors, and the remaining levels are done with one instructor.
After successful completion of the 8-jump AFF course, you will have the skills to skydive on your own under ‘self-supervision’. After 25 skydives, and completion of your A License Card and quiz(zes), you can apply for your A-License. You can watch the entire AFF progression on the USPA YouTube Channel.
Static Line & IAD (Instructor Assisted Deployment)
This program starts from lower altitudes, working up to higher altitudes and introducing longer freefall time to each skydive as you progress. You still must take a first jump course (FJC). You will not jump with an instructor during the static line/non freefall skydives. For your first few jumps, your parachute will be automatically deployed as you exit the aircraft. Once all items are completed on the A License Card, quiz(zes) are taken and passed, and 25 total skydives, you can apply for your A-License.
Licenses
There are currently four different levels of licensing by the USPA.
A License (25 skydives)
You may jump without supervision, pack your own main parachute, engage in basic group jumps, perform water jumps.
Requirements:
- completed 25 jumps
- completed all requirements listed on the USPA A License Proficiency Card
- completed five group freefall skydives involving at least two participants
- received the signature and official stamp on the USPA A License Proficiency Card or USPA A License Progression Card (ISP)
B License (50 skydives)
You are able to exercise all privileges of an A-license holder, and perform night jumps, with 100 jumps are eligible for the USPA Coach Rating.
####Requirements
- obtained a USPA A license
- completed 50 jumps including:
(a) accumulated at least 30 minutes of controlled freefall time
(b) landed within ten meters of target center on ten jumps - aerial performance requirements, either:
(a) demonstrated the ability to perform individual maneuvers (left 360, right 360, backloop, left 360, right 360, backloop) in freefall in 18 seconds or less
(b) or successful completion of the planned formation(s) on ten group freefall jumps - documentation of live water landing training with full equipment in accordance with the procedures in the Skydiver's Information Manual
- passed a written exam conducted by a current USPA I, I/E, S&TA, or USPA Board member.
C License (200 skydives)
You are able to exercise all privileges of a B-license holder, are eligible for the USPA Instructor rating (except USPA Tandem Instructor), participate in certain demonstration jumps, may ride as passenger on USPA Tandem Instructor training and rating renewal jumps.
####Requirements
- met all current requirements for or hold a USPA B license
- completed 200 jumps, including accumulating at least 60 minutes of controlled freefall time
- landed within two meters of target center on 25 jumps
- aerial performance requirements, either:
(1) during freefall, perform in sequence within 18 seconds-a backloop, front loop, left 360-degree turn, right 360-degree turn, right barrel roll and left barrel roll
(2) completed at least two points on an 8-way or larger random skydive - Passed a written exam conducted by a current USPA I/E, S&TA, or USPA Board member.
D License (500 skydives)
You are able to exercise all privileges of a C-license holder, are eligible for all USPA ratings.
####Requirements
- met all current requirements for or hold a USPA C license
- completed 500 jumps including accumulating at least three hours of controlled freefall time
- made two night jumps (one solo and one in a group) with a freefall of at least 20 seconds
(1) with verification of prior night-jump training from a USPA Instructor holding a USPA D license
(2) with the advice of an S&TA, in accordance with USPA BSRs - Passed the written USPA D license exam conducted by a current USPA I/E, S&TA, or USPA Board member.
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