Ready to skydive? Contact a drop zone. Drop Zones are independent businesses that have their own practices and are the best source of information about your specific skydive.
Find a Drop Zone
Which drop zone is the safest?
Individual decisions and experience levels play a much larger role in safety than the drop zone itself. Generally, a higher number of incidents at a drop zone reflects a greater volume of jumps rather than a lower level of safety. As such, USPA focuses on the underlying issues of individual incidents rather than comparing the safety of each drop zone.
Feel free to ask your local drop zone directly about their safety record; they've been asked before.
How safe is skydiving?
See the "How Safe is Skydiving?" page.
What is a USPA drop zone?
Many independent drop zones voluntarily choose to join USPA, a not-for-profit membership organization that supports skydiving.
USPA-affiliated drop zones in the U.S. are known as "Group Members." Group Member drop zones pledge to comply with USPA Basic Safety Requirements, use current USPA instructors, provide USPA-required equipment and follow USPA-developed instructional methods.
USPA-affiliated drop zones in other countries are known as "International Affiliates." International Affiliate drop zones pledge to have at least one current USPA-rated instructor on staff.
Some Group Member and International Affiliate drop zones are also "Training Centers," which provide equipment and training for students to become licensed skydivers.
How old do you have to be to skydive?
In most cases, you must be at least 18 years old to skydive. However, age requirements depend on local laws, which can vary by state or jurisdiction. Your local drop zone will know the specific requirements in their area, so contact them directly for details.
Are there physical requirements to go skydiving?
Drop zones set their own requirements, including weight, height, age, and fitness requirements. Participants must usually disclose medical conditions that could impair the safety of their skydive. Please consult a qualified physician to make sure you’re fit to go skydiving.
Will I need to sign a waiver before skydiving?
Participating in any sport has risks, and skydiving is no exception. Your local drop zone will require you to sign a liability waiver before participating.
Can you breathe in freefall?
If you can breathe normally on the ground, you can likely breathe in freefall. Some people find it easier to breathe through their nose.
How fast will we fall?
About 120 miles per hour during freefall.
I have more questions. Whom should I ask?
Contact your local drop zone with any questions – use the Find a Drop Zone tool to find one near you.
Find a Drop Zone
I’m Hooked… What’s Next?
Consider earning your skydiving license! The training methods above are part of the USPA Integrated Student Program, which student skydivers go through to earn their USPA “A License.” Learn how to become a skydiver