Skydiving Licenses Explained

The United States Parachute Association, or USPA, is a non-profit organization in the U.S. that issues skydiving licenses that are accepted in many places across the world. There are 4 skydiving licenses that you can earn - A, B, C, and D.

 

A-License

This is the first license that skydivers can earn. Earning a USPA A-License is achieved by completing a training program at a skydive school. There are several different training programs offered including: Accelerated Freefall (AFF), Instructor Assisted Deployment (IAD), and Static Line. We teach using the AFF or harness-hold method at Skydive Utah. Each program has its own benefits, but the goal is the same: to get your USPA A-License and become a licensed skydiver! Once earning your A-License, you must make a skydive at least once every 60 days to remain current.

What you can do with it: 

  • Jump without supervision

  • Pack your own main parachute

  • Engage in group skydives

  • Perform water jumps

How to get it:

  • Complete 25 freefall jumps

  • Complete all requirements on the USPA A-License Progression Card

  • Pass written, oral, and practical exams

B-License

This is the next step in your skydiving career. With a USPA B-License, you will be able to participate in more advanced techniques, courses, and learn a ton of skills on the way. Some drop zones specifically require a B-License or higher to jump there if their landing area is near water or other hazards. Once earning your A-License, you must make a skydive at least once every 90 days to remain current.

What you can do with it:

  • Exercise all privileges of an A-License holder

  • Jump at drop zones that require a B-License or higher

  • Perform night jumps

  • Are eligible for the USPA Coach Rating after making 100 jumps

How to get it:

  • Hold a USPA A-License

  • Complete 50 jumps

  • Accumulate 30 minutes of freefall time

  • Land within 33 feet of a target on 10 jumps

  • Complete 10 planned group skydives, with 5 jumps involving 3 participants or more

  • Complete live water-landing training with full equipment on

  • Complete all the requirements on the B-License Canopy Piloting Proficiency Card

  • Pass a written exam

C-License

This step in your licensing progression means you’re getting pretty serious about skydiving. It’s the first license you need to become a USPA rated Instructor. Having a C-License is also recommended before skydiving with camera equipment (GoPro, Insta360, etc.). Once earning your A-License, you must make a skydive at least once every 180 days to remain current.

What you can do with it:

  • Exercise all privileges of a B-License holder

  • Jump at drop zones that require a C-License or higher

  • Are eligible for USPA AFF/IAD/Static Line Instructor ratings

  • May participate in certain demonstration jumps

  • May ride as passenger during USPA Tandem Instructor training and rating renewal jumps

How to get it:

  • Hold a USPA B-License

  • Complete 200 jumps

  • Accumulate 60 minutes of freefall time

  • Land within 7 feet of a target on 25 jumps

  • Complete 50 group skydives, with 10 jumps involving 4 participants or more

  • Passed the written USPA C-License Exam

 

D-License

This license represents the highest level of licensing within the USPA system, requiring advanced skills and a comprehensive understanding of parachuting safety and procedures. In alignment with FAA terminology, a holder of a valid USPA D-License satisfies the requirements of the term 'Master Parachute License.' Once earning your D-License, you must make a skydive at least once every 180 days to remain current.

What you can do with it:

  • Exercise all privileges of a C-License holder

  • Jump at drop zones that require a D-License or higher

  • Are eligible for all USPA ratings including USPA Tandem Rating

How to get it:

  • Hold a USPA C-License

  • Complete 500 jumps

  • Accumulate 3 hours of freefall time

  • Complete two of the following skills requirements:

    • Night jump

    • Land within seven feet of a target on 100 jumps

    • Participate in a canopy formation of a 3-stack or larger, completing a full rotation

    • Complete an intentional water jump

    • Complete 100 formation skydives, with 25 jumps involving 8 participants or more

  • Pass the written USPA D-License Exam

 

These requirements are current as of July 7th, 2025. For the most up-to-date licensing requirements as set forth by USPA, please see USPA SIM Chapter 3-1.