Skydiving is a thrilling and adrenaline-fueled sport that offers a unique perspective on the world from high above. If you’re passionate about the sport and want to take your skydiving skills to the next level, obtaining a skydiving license is essential. But how much does it cost to get a skydiving license?
We will explore the various expenses involved in obtaining a skydiving license, so you can make an informed decision about pursuing this exciting and challenging activity.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Skydiving License?
Becoming a licensed skydiver is not something that happens quickly or cheaply. It requires a significant investment of both time and money. The cost of obtaining a skydiving license isn’t just about the monetary expense. It’s also about the time it takes to complete the necessary training.
Depending on factors like weather conditions and individual skill level, obtaining a USPA A License can take anywhere from a few months to a year. When it comes to the financial investment required for the Accelerated Freefall program, you can expect to pay around $3,000 to $4,000.
Keep in mind that this cost covers the training, gear rental, and jumps required to obtain your skydiving license.
Ground School
The first step towards earning a skydiving license is completing a ground school training. This is crucial training that includes learning about the equipment, safety protocols, and other important information. Private lessons cost $150 per person and provide personalized, one-on-one attention from a jumpmaster instructor.
Training Jumps
After completing ground school training and passing the written test, the in-sky lessons will begin. However, before starting your license-specific training, you’ll need to complete two training tandem skydives before your first solo jump. During these skydives, a jumpmaster will be strapped to you to provide you with in-air training.
You’ll learn specific maneuvers, how to monitor altitude, deploy the parachute, and land safely. Pricing for these training jumps is not always available, as factors such as the availability of instructors can impact their demand. However, you can expect to pay a few hundred dollars per training jump.
These jumps are crucial for building up your skills and gaining the confidence needed to complete your solo skydives.
“A” License Jumps
After passing the ground exam and completing the required training jumps, you can now begin working towards your USPA “A” Skydiving License. To obtain this license, you’ll need to complete a total of 25 jumps, spread across four categories, with each category having a minimum number of required jumps.
The four categories are: seven accelerated freefall (AFF) jumps, six coach jumps, two hop n pop jumps, and ten or more student solo jumps. The cost for these jumps includes approximately $1,400 for AFF jumps, $900 for coach jumps, $150 for hop n pop jumps, and $750 or more for student solo jumps.
Altogether, these portions of your skydiving license training bring the total cost to around $3,200 or more.
What Are the Additional Costs Associated With Getting a Skydiving License?
Unlicensed Recurrency Training
The United States Parachute Association has implemented a policy to ensure that skydivers remain current with their training. If 30 days or more pass without any jumps, individuals in the midst of training for their skydiving license will be required to participate in recurrency training.
This policy ensures that individuals stay current and safe, as skydiving is a high-risk activity that requires ongoing training and practice. The specifics of the recurrency training may vary, but typically, it includes a review of the basics, safety protocols, and procedures to refresh the individual’s knowledge and skills.
Gear Rental
As a student, you may not have your own skydiving equipment. However, rental gear is available for your use until you’re ready to purchase your own. It’s important to note that rental fees can add up over time, so it’s best to start thinking about purchasing your own gear after obtaining your skydiving license.
Purchasing your own equipment can be a significant investment, so make sure to research and budget accordingly.
USPA Annual Membership Fee
If you are interested in becoming a member of the United States Parachute Association (USPA), it’s important to note that you will need to pay an annual membership fee. You have several options when it comes to paying the fee, depending on your preferences. For instance, you can pay a lifetime membership fee of $2,500 to become a member for life.
Alternatively, you can opt to pay a yearly fee of $78 or $66 on a recurring basis. It’s important to remember that these fees are subject to change, so it’s worth checking the latest pricing before making your decision. Additionally, the USPA offers other opportunities and services, which come with their own fees, so you may want to explore those options depending on your goals and interests.
Conclusion
Obtaining a skydiving license can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, but it requires a significant investment of both time and money. While the costs may seem high, they reflect the extensive training and equipment required for safe and successful solo skydiving.
With proper preparation, dedication, and commitment, the thrill of freefalling through the sky will be well worth the investment.
