Understanding the Costs of Getting Your Skydiving License: Methods of certification – IAD, AFF & AST. Why AST stands out
Skydiving is one of the most exhilarating adventures you can experience. The rush of freefall, the wind in your face, and the thrill of floating under a parachute—it’s life-changing. But before you can take the leap solo, you need a skydiving license.
Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, aiming for a professional career, or checking skydiving off your bucket list, understanding the training methods, costs, and advantages is essential. Among all options, AST (Advanced Skydiver Training) offers a structured, premium, and highly effective path to earning your USPA A-License.
What is a Skydiving License?
A skydiving license is official recognition that you’ve:
- Completed the required ground and freefall training
- Mastered proper safety protocols and emergency procedures
- Developed canopy control and landing skills
- Completed the necessary number of jumps
- Passed written and practical skill tests
The USPA A-License (25 jumps) is the entry-level certification, allowing you to jump solo anywhere in the world. Advanced licenses—B, C, and D—require more jumps and unlock opportunities in coaching, instructing, or professional skydiving careers.
Who Issues Skydiving Licenses in the USA?
Skydiving licenses are issued by the United States Parachute Association (USPA), the national authority for skydiving. Key points:
- Licenses require completed Proficiency Cards, signed by certified instructors (AFF-I or USPA coaches)
- Training occurs at USPA Group Member Drop Zones or Training Centers (TCs)
- Applicants must maintain current USPA membership
This ensures your license is globally recognized and your skills meet strict safety standards.
Comparing Skydiving Training Methods: AFF, IAD, and AST
There are multiple paths to your A-License. Here’s a quick overview:
- Accelerated Freefall (AFF)
- Full freefall from your first jump with two instructors
- Structured across 7–8 progressive levels
- Fast-track learning but less focus on canopy mastery or individualized coaching
- Additional costs may occur for repeated or coached jumps
- Instructor Assisted Deployment (IAD)
- Instructor deploys the parachute for the student
- Gradual progression, limited early freefall experience
- Budget-friendly but slower and less immersive
- Advanced Skydiver Training (AST) – Exclusively at Exilerate℠ in Las Vegas
- AST is the premium alternative to AFF and IAD, designed for students seeking comprehensive, one-on-one coaching and real-world readiness.
Key Advantages of AST:
- One-on-One Instruction: Dedicated instructor for every jump ensures personalized guidance
- Deep Ground & Practical Training: 5 full days of classroom and hands-on preparation
- Structured 25 Jump Program: Includes skill-based tandems, coached freefalls, low-altitude solo jumps, and an aircraft emergency drill
- Advanced Skills Focus: Emphasizes canopy piloting, crosswind landings, formation flying, flips, turns, tracking, and emergency procedures
- Video Review Every Jump: Actionable feedback for continuous improvement
- Cost Efficiency: Bundled program reduces extra jump fees and repeated levels
- USPA A-License in 25 Jumps: Faster path to full certification without compromising skill mastery
Summary: AST combines the thrill of freefall with a strong emphasis on safety and long-term skill development, making it the most complete training method for serious skydivers.
Cost Breakdown: How Much Does an A-License Cost?
Here’s a typical scenario:
| Cost Item | AFF | AST |
| Course + 7 jumps | $2,900 – $3,900 | $5,950 (all-inclusive, 25 jumps) |
| 17 Coach Hire Jumps | $2,040 – $2,380 | Included |
| 25 Jump Videos | $2,500 – $3,000 | Included |
| Repeat Jumps | $180 – $250 | $180 – $240 |
| Gear Rental / Jump | $1,275 – $1,360 | Included |
| Packing & Spotting Classes | $250 – $350 | Included |
| USPA Membership | $78/year | $78/year |
| USPA A-License | $30 | $30 |
| Total Cost | $9,533 – $11,748 | $6,418 – $6,538 |
| Cost per Jump | $382 – $470 | $257 – $262 |
Bottom line: AST provides a clear financial advantage by bundling training, jumps, and coaching, avoiding hidden fees.
AST vs AFF vs IAD: Quick Comparison
| Feature | AFF | AST | IAD |
| Ground School | ~6–8 hrs | 5 full days + practical | ~4–6 hrs |
| First Jumps | Exit at 10–14k ft, 2 instructors | 2 skill-based tandems, then one-on-one from 14k ft | Instructor deploys parachute 2.5k ft |
| Jump Progression | 7 levels (+ repeats) | 25 structured jumps | 5–7 progressive jumps |
| Instructor Contact | 2 instructors first jumps | One-on-one entire program | Ground only |
| Freefall Skills | Basic stability, turns, tracking | Advanced flips, tracking, formation | Limited early freefall |
| Canopy Skills | Basic landings | Strong focus: crosswind & precision | Basic canopy control |
| Video Debriefs | Optional, extra cost | Every jump filmed & reviewed | Rarely used |
| Emergency Training | Standard | Full emergency drills, low-alt solo jumps | Ground only |
| Path to License | ~18–30 jumps | 25 jumps = A-License | 30–40 jumps |
| Best For | Fast-track solo experience | Serious students wanting deep training & long-term skills | Budget beginners |
| Drawbacks | Less canopy training, repeats | Intensive, higher upfront commitment | Slow, less immersive, outdated |
Key Takeaways:
- AST is the most complete and structured path to A-License
- AST provides long-term skill mastery, not just a fast track
- AST offers personalized mentorship, video feedback, and advanced training
Additional Costs to Consider
- Weather Delays – May increase travel or accommodation expenses
- Private Coaching / Wind Tunnel Training – Optional, improves skill
- Advanced Courses – Canopy control, water landings, specialty skills
AST helps minimize hidden costs because most training, jumps, and coaching are included.
Is a Skydiving License Worth It?
Absolutely! With AST:
- Gain confidence and safety for solo jumps
- Develop skills that last a lifetime
- Open doors to career or professional opportunities
- Experience unforgettable adventures and personal achievement
AST maximizes skill, safety, and value, making it the smartest investment for serious skydivers.
Skydiving is more than a thrill—it’s a journey of growth, mastery, and exhilaration. While AFF and IAD have their place, AST stands out for students who want comprehensive training, personalized instruction, and a stronger foundation for solo and advanced jumps.
With AST, you’re not just earning a license—you’re building confidence, competence, professional foundation and a lifelong love for the skies.
