Skydiving Progression

Your first license. Demonstrates basic freefall skills, canopy control, and safety awareness.

• Complete USPA Integrated Student Program (AFF or equivalent)
• Minimum 25 freefall skydives
• Pass USPA A-license written exam
• Pass A-license oral exam with an Instructor
• Demonstrate stable exit, 360° turns, and controlled heading
• Demonstrate forward movement (tracking) and group awareness
• Pack a main parachute supervised by a packer or rigger
• Land within the designated area consistently

Intermediate license. Allows night jumps, water jumps, and more advanced group skydiving.

• Meet all requirements for or hold a USPA A license
• Minimum 50 freefall skydives
• Complete 10 jumps involving intentional group freefall
• Land within 33 feet (10 m) of target center on 10 jumps
• Complete a water training course
• Complete a night jump, 10-way formation, or 2 CRW jumps
• Pass USPA B-license written exam
• Demonstrate canopy flight proficiency

Advanced license. Eligibility for Coach and Instructor ratings.

• Meet all requirements for or hold a USPA B license
• Minimum 200 freefall skydives
• Accumulate at least 60 minutes of freefall time
• Land within 7 feet (2 m) of target center on 25 jumps
• Demonstrate controlled approaches to other jumpers
• Pass USPA C-license written exam

Expert license. The highest USPA license level.

• Meet all requirements for or hold a USPA C license
• Minimum 500 freefall skydives
• Accumulate at least 3 hours of freefall time
• Pass USPA D-license written exam

Allows you to coach licensed skydivers in group freefall skills.

• Meet all requirements for or hold a USPA B license (C recommended)
• Minimum 100 freefall skydives
• Complete a USPA Coach Course with an Examiner
• Demonstrate proficiency in the skills being taught
• Pass Coach Rating written and practical exams
• Current USPA membership

Allows you to teach first-jump students through the AFF program.

• Meet all requirements for or hold a USPA C license (D recommended)
• Minimum 500 freefall skydives
• Hold a current Coach rating
• Complete an AFF Instructor Course with an Examiner
• Demonstrate ability to control and teach students in freefall
• Pass AFF Instructor written and practical evaluations
• Complete supervised AFF jumps with students
• Current USPA membership and first aid certification