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 here 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