Updated 2026
Earning a skydiving license allows you to jump solo and progress into advanced skydiving disciplines. In the United States, skydiving licenses are issued through the United States Parachute Association (USPA) and require students to complete structured training, skill verification, and a minimum number of jumps.
At Skydive Chicago, students earn their A-License through our Advanced Freefall Program (AFP) — a comprehensive training program designed to build strong skills in freefall, canopy control, and safety procedures.
What Is a Skydiving License?
The first skydiving license most jumpers earn is the USPA A-License.
This license allows skydivers to:
- Jump without direct instructor supervision
- Participate in group skydives
- Rent skydiving equipment
- Travel and jump at dropzones around the world
To earn an A-License, students must complete training requirements set by the United States Parachute Association (USPA).
Prerequisites to Start the AFP Program
Before beginning the Advanced Freefall Program at Skydive Chicago, students must:
- Weigh less than 230 pounds
- Complete at least two tandem skydives
- Complete the objectives of the tandem progression
- Have one tandem jump at Skydive Chicago within six months of AFP Ground School
These requirements ensure students begin training with basic familiarity with freefall and parachute flight.
Step-by-Step: How to Earn Your Skydiving License
If you meet the prerequisites, this is the general progression to earn your A-License at Skydive Chicago.
1. Complete the Online Ground School
Students begin with Skydive Chicago’s online ground school covering:
- Skydiving equipment
- Aircraft procedures
- Freefall body position
- Parachute control
- Emergency procedures
Students have 7 days to complete the course once you begin from the comfort of your home on a schedule convenient to you.
2. Attend the In-Person Practical Session
After completing online training, students schedule a 1-2 hour in-person practical session where instructors review procedures and prepare students for their first training jumps.
3. Complete the AFP 18-Level Curriculum
The Advanced Freefall Program consists of 18 training jumps with a certified instructor.
During these jumps students learn:
- Stable freefall body position
- Controlled turns and movement
- Altitude awareness
- Parachute deployment procedures
- Safe canopy navigation and landing techniques
4. Complete the USPA A-License Proficiency Card
Throughout training, instructors verify required skills on the USPA A-License proficiency card, ensuring students meet all national licensing standards.
5. Complete 25 Total Skydives
To earn an A-License, students must complete a minimum of 25 skydives that demonstrate:
- Exit stability
- Freefall skills
- Safe parachute control
- Landing accuracy
6. Complete Packing Class
Students learn how to properly pack their parachute system during an instructor-led packing course.
7. Pass the A-License Prep and Final Check
Students complete a final review and written exam with an instructor to confirm they are ready to become licensed skydivers.
Why Choose Skydive Chicago for Skydiving Training?
Skydive Chicago’s program is designed to guide students through every stage of learning to skydive.
Our instructors help students understand exactly what step comes next, ensuring all requirements are completed efficiently and safely.
Key benefits of the program include:
- Highly experienced instructors
- Structured step-by-step progression
- Advanced freefall and canopy training
- Individual guidance throughout the program
- A supportive skydiving community
Many graduates of Skydive Chicago’s training programs go on to become:
- USPA Coaches
- Instructors
- Competitive skydivers
- World record holders
- Even World Champions
Skydive Chicago offers an in depth program that goes above and beyond industry standards. The program is taught exclusively by highly rated instructors throughout each level. Many other programs have coaches (not instructors) teach after approximately 7 jumps in the AFF program format.
AFP vs AFF: What’s the Difference?
Many dropzones teach skydiving using the Accelerated Freefall (AFF) program, while Skydive Chicago uses the Advanced Freefall Program (AFP).
All programs are not the same and will differ from skydiving center to skydiving center. This is a brief snapshot of what the main differences may be.
Number of Training Jumps
| AFF | AFP | |
| Instructor Jumps | 7 | 20 |
| Total Jumps to License | 25 | 25 |
Program Structure
| AFF | AFP | |
| Ground School | 4-6 hours in person | Online + 1-2 hour practical |
| Instructors | 2 instructors initially | 1 Instructor per jump |
| Video | Additional cost | Included |
| Logbook | Physical | Digital Logbook with video |
| Packing Class | Usually separate | Included in full A-License package |
| A-License Prep | Written Exam or not included in training | Included with instructor |
| A-License in a Week | Not offered | Available by reservation |
| Private Lessons | Not offered | Available by reservation |
Because AFP includes more instructor jumps and guided training, students often gain deeper skill development before jumping solo.
Skydive Chicago also offers purchasing the Online Ground School and 1 Jump, a 3-Jump Package (at a discount) and/or the entire program for the biggest discount.
Are you ready to take the next steps to learn to skydive?
How Long Does It Take to Get a Skydiving License?
The time required varies depending on weather and how frequently students jump.
Some students complete their license in a few weeks, while others take several months depending on their schedule. There are also others that take off work for 7-10 days and get it done fast!
Frequently Asked Questions
A minimum of 25 skydives are required to earn a USPA A-License.
Students at Skydive Chicago begin with two tandem jumps before starting a solo training program.
No. Programs may differ between dropzones, although all must meet USPA licensing requirements.
Some students can complete training quickly with an intensive program, though weather and availability may affect timing.
Ready to Learn to Skydive?
Skydive Chicago offers multiple training packages, including:
- Online Ground School + first jump
- Discounted multi-jump packages
- Full A-License training program
If you’re ready to take the next step in your skydiving journey, our instructors are here to guide you from your first training jump all the way to becoming a licensed skydiver.
