Many people experience skydiving once and immediately want to do it again. After a tandem jump, the next big question often is: how do you become a certified skydiver?
- What Does It Mean to Be a Certified Skydiver?
- Can Beginners Become Certified Right Away?
- Skydiving Training Methods Explained
- Step-by-Step: How to Become a Licensed Skydiver
- Skydiving Licenses Explained
- How Much Does Skydiving Certification Cost?
- How Long Does It Take to Get Certified?
- Is Skydiving Training Safe?
- Physical and Mental Preparation for Training
- What Gear Do Student Skydivers Use?
- Can You Travel Internationally with a Skydiving License?
- Common Mistakes New Skydivers Make
- Is Skydiving Certification Worth It?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Skydiving Certification
- Final Thoughts
Becoming a licensed skydiver allows you to jump solo, control your parachute, and continue skydiving without being attached to an instructor. This guide explains the entire skydiving certification process, including training steps, licenses, costs, and what to expect as a beginner.
What Does It Mean to Be a Certified Skydiver?
A certified skydiver is someone who has completed formal training and earned a license from a recognized skydiving organization.
Certification allows you to:
- Jump solo
- Rent or own skydiving equipment
- Participate in group jumps
- Progress to advanced disciplines
Most countries follow similar training standards, though licensing bodies may differ.
Can Beginners Become Certified Right Away?
Yes.
Most people start with a tandem skydive, then enroll in a training program if they want to continue.
If you have not done a tandem jump yet, start by reading what to expect on your first skydive on SkydiveGuides.com.
Skydiving Training Methods Explained
Accelerated Freefall (AFF)
AFF is the most popular and widely accepted training method.
In AFF:
- You receive ground school training
- You jump with instructors holding you during freefall
- You learn stability, altitude awareness, and parachute control
AFF allows faster progression compared to older training methods.
Static Line Training
Static line training is less common today.
In this method:
- The parachute opens automatically after exit
- Freefall is introduced gradually
- Progression is slower
AFF is preferred by most modern drop zones.
Step-by-Step: How to Become a Licensed Skydiver
Step 1: Medical and Eligibility Check
Before training, you must:
- Meet age requirements (usually 18+)
- Meet weight limits
- Declare medical conditions
Basic fitness is sufficient.
Step 2: Ground School Training
Ground school usually lasts one full day.
You will learn:
- Equipment basics
- Body position
- Emergency procedures
- Canopy control
- Landing techniques
This knowledge is essential for safety.
Step 3: AFF Jumps
AFF training typically includes:
- 7 to 8 jumps
- Instructor supervision
- Skill evaluations at each level
You progress only after demonstrating control and awareness.
Step 4: Solo Jumps and Coaching
After AFF levels, you complete:
- Solo jumps
- Coach jumps
- Practice maneuvers
This phase builds confidence and skill.
Step 5: Earn Your License
Most countries issue a basic license after:
- 25 jumps
- Written exam
- Practical skill demonstration
This license allows independent skydiving.
Skydiving Licenses Explained
A License (Beginner)
This is the first license level.
It allows:
- Solo jumps
- Equipment rental
- Basic group jumps
Advanced Licenses (B, C, D)
Higher licenses require:
- More jumps
- Skill demonstrations
- Time in the sport
Advanced licenses allow:
- Night jumps
- Larger group jumps
- Instructor training
How Much Does Skydiving Certification Cost?
Skydiving certification is an investment.
Average costs worldwide:
- AFF course: $1,500–$3,500
- Additional jumps and gear rental: $500–$1,000
- Total cost: $2,000–$4,500
Prices vary by country and drop zone.
For a full breakdown, read skydiving cost worldwide on SkydiveGuides.com.
How Long Does It Take to Get Certified?
Time depends on:
- Weather conditions
- Budget
- Personal schedule
Most people complete certification within 2 to 8 weeks.
Some finish faster, others take longer.
Is Skydiving Training Safe?
Training programs are designed with safety as the top priority.
Safety measures include:
- Instructor supervision
- Backup parachutes
- Automatic activation devices
- Strict weather rules
For detailed safety information, read how safe skydiving really is on SkydiveGuides.com.
Physical and Mental Preparation for Training
Skydiving training requires:
- Basic fitness
- Mental focus
- Ability to follow instructions
Maintaining good health improves performance. Helpful fitness and wellness guidance can be found at healthguiders.
What Gear Do Student Skydivers Use?
During training:
- Gear is rented from the drop zone
- Equipment meets safety standards
- Instructors assist with checks
Learn more in skydiving gear for beginners on SkydiveGuides.com.
Can You Travel Internationally with a Skydiving License?
Yes.
Most licenses are internationally recognized.
You can skydive in:
- USA
- Europe
- Australia
- Asia
Always carry your logbook and license.
If you enjoy combining skydiving with travel, you may also enjoy other adventure activities such as scuba diving. Destination guides can be found at scoobadiveguide.
Common Mistakes New Skydivers Make
Avoid these mistakes:
- Rushing training
- Skipping jumps due to fear
- Buying gear too early
- Ignoring instructor advice
Patience leads to better skill development.
Is Skydiving Certification Worth It?
For people who love skydiving, certification is absolutely worth it.
Benefits include:
- Freedom to jump independently
- Community involvement
- Skill progression
- Personal growth
Many certified skydivers describe it as life-changing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Skydiving Certification
Do I need to be athletic to skydive?
No. Basic fitness is enough.
Can I fail skydiving training?
Progression is skill-based, not time-based.
Is skydiving certification permanent?
Yes, but currency requirements apply.
Can I stop training and resume later?
Yes. Training can resume when ready.
Is skydiving certification expensive?
It is an investment, not a one-time cost.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a certified skydiver opens the door to an entirely new world. Training is structured, safe, and rewarding.
If skydiving excites you beyond a one-time experience, certification is the next natural step.
