U N I T E D STAT E S PA RAC H U T E AS S O C IAT I O N

SAFETY& 

TRAINING 

ADVISOR

HANDBOOK
USPA	

SAFETY	&	TRAINING

ADVISOR

HANDBOOK

January 2015

If	found,	please	return	to:

name	__________________________________________

address	________________________________________

city,	state,	zip	__________________________________

phone	__________________________________________

email	__________________________________________

©	2015 United	States	Parachute	Association

all	rights	reserved

United	States	Parachute	Association

5401	Southpoint	Centre	Blvd.

Fredericksburg,	Virginia	22407

540.604.9740	(phone)

540.604.9741	(fax)

www.uspa.org
SAFETY	& TRAINING	ADVISOR	HANDBOOK

UNITED	STATES	PARACHUTE	ASSOCIATION 2 JANUARY 2015

Table of Contents 

Introduction.....................................................................................................................................................3

The	S&TA	Symbol......................................................................................................................................................................... 3

The S&TA	and	the	S&TA	Handbook ....................................................................................................................................... 3

The	Role	of	the	Safety	&	Training	Advisor.............................................................................................3

What	Is	an	S&TA? ......................................................................................................................................................................... 3

Appointments	and	Reappointments...................................................................................................................................... 3

S&TA	Responsibilities ................................................................................................................................................................ 3

Limits	of	Appointment	by	Location........................................................................................................................................ 4

Communications........................................................................................................................................................................... 4

Overview	of	USPA	Documents....................................................................................................................4

USPA	Governance	Manual ......................................................................................................................................................... 4

Skydiver’s	Information	Manual............................................................................................................................................... 4

Instructional	Rating	Manual..................................................................................................................................................... 5

Skydiver’s	Competition	Manual .............................................................................................................................................. 5

The	USPA	Group	Membership	Manual.................................................................................................................................. 5

Accidents	and	the	S&TA ...............................................................................................................................5

Serious	Accidents	and	Fatalities ............................................................................................................................................. 5

Investigation	and	Reporting	of	Accidents............................................................................................................................ 6

Investigating	Non-Fatal	Incidents .............................................................................................................................................................6

Investigating	Fatalities...................................................................................................................................................................................6

Submission	and	Disposal	of	Accident	Reports ................................................................................................................... 7

Non-Fatal	Incident	Reports..........................................................................................................................................................................7

Fatality	Reports.................................................................................................................................................................................................7

The	Accident	Report	Form ...........................................................................................................................................................................7

USPA	Policy	Regarding	Proprietary	and	Privileged	Information................................................................................ 7

Background.........................................................................................................................................................................................................7

Policy......................................................................................................................................................................................................................8

FAA	Regulations..............................................................................................................................................8

Extraordinary	Skydives	and	Exhibition	Jumps ....................................................................................8

Extraordinary	Skydives.............................................................................................................................................................. 8

Exhibition	Jumps .......................................................................................................................................................................... 8

Wingsuit	Skydiving	Special	Concerns.................................................................................................................................... 8

Requirement	Checks	for	New	Wingsuiters	and	Coaches ................................................................................................................8

First	Flight	Curriculum	and	Progression................................................................................................................................................9

Special	Gear	Concerns ....................................................................................................................................................................................9

Gear	Checks.........................................................................................................................................................................................................9

Safe	Exits ..............................................................................................................................................................................................................9

Pilot	Communication ......................................................................................................................................................................................9

Navigation............................................................................................................................................................................................................9

D-License	Verification	and	Renewal........................................................................................................9

Licenses .........................................................................................................................................................................................10

Rating	Renewals .........................................................................................................................................................................10

Forms............................................................................................................................................................... 10
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Introduction 

The S&TA Symbol 

USPA	adopted	the	inverted	triangle	symbol	for	the	

USPA	Safety	& Training	Advisor	upon	instituting	the	

S&TA	program	in	March	1985.	The	volunteer	S&TA	

corps	lies	at	its	center,	acting	as	representative	and	

communicator	among	the	three	facets	of	USPA:	the	

dues-paying	USPA	members,	their	elected	USPA	Board	

and	the	professional	USPA	Headquarters	staff.	

The S&TA and the S&TA 

Handbook 

S&TAs	are	the	USPA	Regional	Directors’ designated	

representatives	in	the	field	to	advise	skydivers	and	

drop	zone	management	and	staff	on	USPA	policies.	

S&TAs	also	facilitate	the	administration	of	USPA	

safety,	training,	rating	and	awards	programs.

The	Safety	&	Training	Advisor	Handbook	provides	

USPA	Safety	&	Training	Advisors	with	the	necessary	

guidance,	instructions	and	references	to	fulfill	their	

responsibilities.	As	a	resource	for	the	S&TA,	the	S&TA	

Handbook	augments	the Skydiver’s	Information	

Manual	(SIM),	the	Instructional	Rating	Manual (IRM)	

and	the	USPA	Governance	Manual.

The Role of the Safety & 

Training Advisor 

What Is an S&TA? 

Skydiving	continues	to	be	conducted	with	minimal	

control	and	supervision	by	local,	state	and	federal	

agencies.	The	federal	government,	in	particular,	has	

long	since	recognized	that	the	most	capable	people	of	

regulating	skydiving	are	those	who	do	it.	Specifically,	

the	Federal	Aviation	Administration	has	recognized	

USPA	as	best	suited	for	promoting	and	supporting	

self-regulation.

At	the	very	core	of	self-regulation	is	the	USPA	Safety	&	

Training	Advisor.	This	S&TA,	an	unpaid	volunteer,	is	

appointed	to	the	position	by	the	USPA	Director	for	his	

or	her	USPA	Region.	For	the	skydivers	and	staff	at	the	

drop	zone,	the	S&TA	is	the	conduit	between	the	

members	and	their	governing	body.

The	S&TA	interacts	directly	with	the	Regional	Director	

and	USPA’s	administrative	staff	at	USPA	Headquarters	

in	Fredericksburg,	Virginia,	on	behalf	of	all	USPA	

members—temporary,	regular	and	Group Members.	

Appointments and 

Reappointments 

In	most	cases,	the	Regional	Director	will	appoint	an	

S&TA	for	a	specific	drop	zone,	whether	or	not	that	

drop	zone	is	a	USPA	Group	Member.	The	Regional	

Director	may	also	appoint	multiple	S&TAs	for	a	single	

drop	zone	if	the	demand	for	services	so	warrants.	In	

special	cases,	a	Regional	Director	may	require	an	

advisor	for	an	area	containing	more	than	one	drop	

zone.	The	Regional	Director	may	also	appoint	one	or	

more	S&TAs-at-large	for	the	entire	USPA	Region.	Some	

USPA	employees	function	as	S&TAs	at	large	and	can	

perform	S&TA	duties	as	necessary.

Specific	qualifications	of	S&TAs,	procedures	for	

appointment	and	administrative	processing	

procedures	are	provided	in	Section 1-4	of	the	USPA	

Governance	Manual.

• The	term	of	each	S&TA	expires	on	March	31	of	

the	year	following	the	election	of	the	board	of	

directors	unless	the	appointment	is

surrendered	or	revoked.

• Each	appointment	is	reviewed	by	the	Regional	

Director at	least	annually.

S&TA Responsibilities 

The	principal	responsibility	of	the	S&TA	is	to	promote	

safe	skydiving.	Toward	that	goal,	the	S&TA	serves	

specific	advisory	and	administrative	functions:

• Observes	skydiving	operations	to	verify	

compliance	with	the	Basic	Safety	

Requirements.

• Informs	the	Regional	Director	of	all	flagrant	

and/or	recurring	safety	violations.

• In	grave	cases,	takes	summary	action	under	

Section	1-6	of	the	USPA	Governance	Manual.

• Provides	safety	and	training	advice	to	

skydivers,	drop	zone	operators	and	rating	

holders.

• Reviews	plans	for	exhibition	jumps.

• Verifies	that	drop	zones	qualify	as	

“sanctioned”	by	meeting	the	minimum	drop	

zone	requirements	(see	the	BSRs	in	the	

Skydiver’s	Information	Manual).

• Assists	and	advises	with	extraordinary	

skydive	operations	(see	the	BSRs	and	

Advanced	Progression	section	in	the	

Skydiver’s	Information	Manual).

• Investigates	accidents	and	submits	reports	

(see	“Accidents	and	the	S&TA”	in	this	

manual).

• Verifies	the	requirements	on	D-License	

applications	and	rating	renewals	(see	“D

License	and	Rating	Renewal”	in	this	manual).
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• Promotes	USPA	policies	and	programs,	for	

example,	USPA	Safety	Day.

• Unless	excused	by	the	Regional	Director,	

attends	an	annual	S&TA	meeting	called	by	the	

Regional	Director.

• The	Regional	Director	may	designate	other	

related	tasks	as	necessary.

Limits of Appointment by 

Location 

Except	for	specified	S&TAs	at	large,	each	S&TA	is	

appointed	for	a	specific	drop	zone	or	location.	S&TAs	

appointed	for	a	specific	location	may	exercise	their	

duties	only	at	that	location.	In	cases	where	a	visiting	

S&TA	is	requested	to	take	care	of	an	administrative	

duty, such	as	signing	for	a	rating	renewal	or	

administering	a	D-license	test,	the	visiting	S&TA	

should	refer	the	member	to	the	local	S&TA	for	that	

drop	zone	or	location.	If	there	is	no	S&TA	assigned	for	

that	specific	location	and	it	is	within	the	S&TA’s	USPA	

Region,	a	visiting	S&TA	may	provide	services	to	the	

member	and	should	advise	his	or	her	Regional	

Director.	In	cases	where	a	visiting	S&TA	observes	a	

safety	violation	or	other	hazardous	activity,	the	local	

S&TA	should	be	informed	of	the	action.	If	the	visiting	

S&TA	feels	that	appropriate	actions	have	not	been	

taken	by	the	local	S&TA,	the	Regional	Director	should	

be	notified.

Once	relocating	to	another	USPA	Region,	an	S&TA’s	

appointment	is	terminated.	He	or	she	may	be	

reappointed	by	the	USPA	Director	for	the	new	USPA	

Region.	

Communications 

Self-regulation	is	enhanced	if	there	is	continual	

information	flow	among	the	S&TA,	the	Regional	

Director	and	USPA	Headquarters.	To	assist	in	this	

effort,	headquarters	maintains	a	list	of	all	S&TAs.	Each	

S&TA	should	update	the	Regional	Director	and	USPA	

Headquarters	with	changes	in	address,	phone	number	

and	email	address.

USPA	Headquarters	periodically	publishes	the	“USPA	

Professional” newsletter	sent	via	email	to	all	USPA	

rating	holders,	drop	zone	owners	and	S&TAs.	All	the	

bulletins	are	archived	on	the	USPA	website,	

www.uspa.org, for	access	by	anyone.	Also	of	interest	

to	S&TAs	is	the	“USPA	Update,” sent	to	all	members,	

and	other	special	bulletins,	all	found	on	the	website.

Overview of USPA 

Documents 

USPA	publishes	several	manuals	to	assist	you	with	the	

information	that	you	will	need	as	an	S&TA.	Following

is	a	list	of	pertinent	information	that	can	be	found	in	

each	manual:

USPA Governance Manual 

(not	distributed	to	S&TAs)

The	USPA	Governance	Manual	outlines	the	structure,	

procedures	and	policies	that	govern	the	USPA	Board	of	

Directors	and	each	of	its	committees.	Of	particular	

interest	to	S&TAs	include:

• Section	1-1,	The	Constitution	and	By-Laws

• Section	1-2,	Structure,	Procedures	and	

Responsibilities

• Section	1-4,	Regional	Directors

• Section	1-6,	Disciplinary	Actions

• Section	5,	Safety	&	Training

• Section	7,	Membership

The	principal	USPA	committee	affecting	the	S&TA	is	

the	Safety	&	Training	Committee.	Another	committee	

of	note	to	the	S&TA	is	the	Group	Membership	

Committee,	which	oversees	the	USPA	Group	Member	

program	for	drop	zones.	Regional	Directors	appoint	

the	S&TAs	for	the	drop	zones—USPA	Group	Member	

or	not—in	their	USPA	Regions.	The	USPA	Membership	

Committee	oversees	all	USPA	awards,	some	of	which	

require	the	signature	of	an	S&TA.

The	USPA	Governance	Manual	also	lists	the	duties	of	

the	Regional	Directors	and	offers	them	guidance	with	

the	selection	criteria	for	choosing	the	S&TA	at	each	

drop	zone.

In	Section	1-6,	the	USPA	Governance	Manual	outlines	

disciplinary	actions	that	are	available	to	the	S&TA,	the	

Regional	Director	and	the	USPA	Board	of	Directors.	

Each	S&TA	needs	to	understand	his	or	her	potential	

role	in	USPA	disciplinary	actions.

The	USPA	Governance	Manual	is	available	as	a	free	

download	online	at	www.uspa.org.

Skydiver’s Information Manual 

The	SIM	contains	information	regarding	student	

training,	awards,	licenses,	exhibition	jumps,	

extraordinary	skydives	and	recommendations	

regarding	all of	the	various	skydiving	disciplines.	It	

also	contains	a	number	of	applications	and	forms	for	

USPA	awards,	licenses	and	the	PRO	Exhibition	rating.	

The	SIM	is	updated	every	two	years.

The	Basic	Safety	Requirements	and	information	on	

waivers	to	the	BSRs	are	found	in	Section	2	of	the	SIM.	

USPA	members	are	required	to	abide	by	the	BSRs.	

Except	for	the	BSRs	and	the	FAA	regulations	

pertaining	to	skydiving	that	are	included	within	the	

SIM,	all	other	areas	of	the	SIM	are	recommendations.	
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Each	S&TA	may	purchase	one	SIM	for	personal	use	at	a	

reduced	rate.

The	SIM	is	also	available	as	an	online reference	at	

www.uspa.org.

Instructional Rating Manual 

(not	distributed	to	S&TAs)

The	IRM	contains	the	course	training	information	for	

all	USPA	instructional	rating	courses:

• USPA	Coach

• USPA	Instructor	in	Accelerated	Freefall,	

Instructor-Assisted	Deployment,	Static	Line	

and	Tandem

• Instructor	Examiner

Instructions	and	requirements	for	obtaining	the	initial	

rating, as	well	as	renewing	the	rating	annually, are	

listed.	The	IRM	includes	all	forms	and	proficiency	

cards	needed	for	every	rating	course,	so	one	manual	

may	be	used	at	multiple	rating	or	rating	discipline	

courses.

The	USPA	Board	revises	the	IRM	primarily	at	USPA	

Board	meetings	held	twice	each	year.	USPA	

Headquarters	compiles	all	the	changes	and	updates	

the	IRM	every	two	years,	and	the	revision	date	is	

printed	on	the	title	page	and	in	the	bottom	margin	of	

each	page.	Candidates	attending	a	certification	course	

are	required	to	have	an	IRM	that	has	been	published	

within	two	years	of	the	date	of	that	course.

“IRM	Essentials”	is	a	document	containing	key	

excerpts	from	the	IRM,	specifically	for	those	preparing	

for	an	instructional	rating	course	and	rating	holders	

seeking	rating	renewal	information.	It	is	available	at	

no	charge	online at	www.uspa.org.

Skydiver’s Competition Manual 

(not	distributed	to	S&TAs)

The	SCM	contains	the	rules	and	regulations	regarding	

all	USPA	skydiving	competition	disciplines.	It	also	

includes	information	regarding	the	USPA	Competition	

Judge	Rating,	USPA	Nationals	site	selection	and	United	

States	Parachute	Team	delegation	and	financial	

procedures.

The	SCM	is	available	from	the	USPA	Store	or	online at	

www.uspa.org.

The USPA Group Membership 

Manual 

(not	distributed	to	S&TAs)

The	USPA Group	Membership	Manual	contains	

information	on	the	USPA	Group	Member	program,	the	

Group	Member	pledge	to	abide	by	the	rules,	and	use	of	

the	USPA	Airport	and	Airspace	Access	Defense	Fund.

The	USPA	Group	Membership	Manual	is	available	

upon	request	from	USPA	Headquarters.

Accidents and the S&TA 

Serious Accidents and Fatalities 

The	USPA	Safety	&	Training	Advisor	is	one	of	USPA’s	

most	valuable	assets	in	the	event	of	a	serious	

skydiving	accident.	A	difficult	situation	can	be	made	

easier	by	having	an	established	plan	in	place,	including	

a	current	notification	list	for	the	appropriate	officials	

and	advisors	and	what	steps	need	to	be	taken.	S&TAs	

are	encouraged	to	take	a	basic	first-aid	course,	

available	through	the	American	Red	Cross.

Each	S&TA	should	become	familiar	with	the	following	

advice	on	how	to	deal	with	fatalities	and	serious	

incidents	for	the	benefit	of	the	victim,	the	skydiving	

establishment	and	to	help	later	with	the	investigation.	

1. Call	for	medical	assistance.	A	call	to	911	will	

alert	the	police	and	rescue	personnel.	

2. Administer	first	aid	using	qualified	personnel	

if	there	is	a	chance	that	the	individual	may	be	

alive,	even	if	it	means	disturbing	the	evidence.

3. Secure	the	area.	Remove	all	unnecessary	

people	from	the	scene.

4. Do	not	allow	anyone	to	tamper	with	the	

equipment	beyond	what	is	necessary	for	the	

treatment	of	the	victim.	Historically,	law	

enforcement	or	rescue	personnel	cut	the	

equipment	off	of	the	victim	before	an	

informed	skydiving	official	can	investigate	the	

scene.	Especially	in	the	event	of	a	fatality,	

disturbing	or	destroying	the	equipment	can	

make	it	difficult	or	impossible	to	conclude	

what	went	wrong.	The	S&TA	or	someone	in	

charge	of	handling	accidents	at	the	drop	zone	

should	advise	local	officials	of	the	importance	

of	preserving	the	scene	before	they	disturb	it.

5. Stop	jumping.	In	most	cases	it	would	be	a	wise	

decision	to	halt	jumping	while	rescue	and	

initial	investigation	efforts	are	underway.

6. In	the	event	of	a	fatality,	notify	the	local	FAA	

Flight	Standards	District	Office	and	USPA	

Regional	Director	or,	if	during	business	hours	

(9-5	Eastern	Time),	USPA	Headquarters	(540-

604-9740).	You	should	have	emergency	

numbers	available	at	the	drop	zone	for	the	

FSDO	and	the	USPA	Regional	Director.	Once	

USPA	Headquarters	is	notified	of a	fatality,	the	

Director	of	Safety	&	Training	will	advise	the	
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UNITED	STATES	PARACHUTE	ASSOCIATION 6 JANUARY 2015

USPA	Board	of	the	initial	information	received	

from	the	S&TA	or	the	Regional	Director.

7. Secure	the	victim’s	personal	effects.

8. Secure	the	victim’s	logbook,	a	copy	of	the	

liability	release,	emergency	contacts,	manifest	

record,	DZ	training	log	(if	applicable)	and	any	

other	related	documents.	Copies	of	various	

documents	may	need	to	be	reviewed	by	the	

coroner,	local	law	enforcement	authorities	or	

the	next-of-kin.	However,	only	the	drop	zone	

owner	should	give	permission	to	provide	

access	to	copies	of	DZ	documents,	and	original	

DZ	records	should	never	be	surrendered.	An	

attorney’s	advice	may	be	helpful.

9. Notify	the	next-of-kin.	For	every	jumper,	the	

drop	zone	should	have	an	up-to-date	release	

and	emergency	contact	information.	In	most	

cases,	it	is	better	to	let	the	local	law	

enforcement	contact	the	next-of-kin.

10. Make	sure	that	everyone	present	understands	

that	there	must	be	no	social	media	posts	

regarding	the	fatality	until	the	immediate	

family	has	been	contacted.

Investigation and Reporting of 

Accidents 

Fatalities,	accidents	and	other	significant	incidents	are	

an	unfortunate	part	of	skydiving	that	must	be	

addressed	by	drop	zone	staff	and	S&TAs.	Skydivers	

learn	important	lessons	from	the	mistakes	of	others,	

so	the	role	of	the	S&TA	as	impartial	investigator	is	

critical	to	the	skydiving	community.	The	S&TA	should	

try	to	file	an	effective	report.

To	create	an	accurate	account,	USPA	needs	the	S&TA	

to	gather	information	about	incidents	and	accidents,	

including	witness	accounts	and	the	personal	

observations	of	the	investigator.	

USPA	keeps	reports	confidential	by	following	the	

procedures	included	in	this	section.	The	integrity	and	

effectiveness	of	the	reporting	system	relies	on	each	

USPA	official	to	follow	USPA’s	procedures	exactly	as	

outlined.

Investigating Non-Fatal Incidents 

Significant	incidents	can	range	from	minor	to	serious	

and	may	include	injuries,	noteworthy	malfunctions,	

unsafe	procedures,	unusual	or	ethically	unacceptable	

skydives,	or	other	extraordinary occurrences	

concerning	skydiving	operations.	

Reports	of	non-fatal	incidents	should	be	as	detailed	as	

possible.	Use	the	USPA	Accident	Report	Form	

whenever	possible,	and	complete	all	applicable	

sections.	The	S&TA	should	compile	and	forward	the	

report	to	USPA.	In	the	event	of	the	S&TA’s	absence,	he	

or	she	should	appoint	a	USPA	Instructor.	Additional	

copies	of	the	USPA	Accident	Report	Form	may	be	

downloaded	from	the	USPA	website.

Investigating Fatalities 

The	USPA	Regional	Director	will	generally	call	on	an	

S&TA	to	investigate	and	prepare	an	official	report	on	a	

fatal	accident.	Whenever	possible,	the	investigating	

USPA	official	should	be	someone	other	than	the	drop	

zone	operator.	Also,	if	the	investigation	requires	a	

rigger,	he	or	she	should	not	be	the	one	supervising	the	

packing	at	the	drop	zone	or	the	one	who	packed	the	

reserve	of	the	deceased	jumper.	Other	circumstances	

may	put	a	particular	S&TA	or	other	resource	too	close	

to	an	accident	and	interfere	with	the	impartiality	of	

the	investigation.	Following	the plan	below	can	help	

keep	the	investigation	on	track:

1. Advise	local	officials	that	the	FAA	might	wish	

to	investigate	before	the	body	is	removed.	

Before	local	officials	insist	on	disturbing	the	

accident	scene	or	removing	the	body,	try	to	

photograph	it	from	as	many	angles	as	

possible.	This	will	help	to	provide	accurate	

information	in	the	future.

2. Begin	the	investigation	immediately.	Identify	

yourself	as	an	appointed	USPA	official	and	

offer	assistance	with	the	investigation.

3. If	you	are	not	an	FAA	certified	rigger,	it	may	

be	helpful	to	enlist	an	impartial	rigger	to	help.

4. Investigate	the	equipment.	Local	officials	do	

not	have	the	expertise	with	skydiving	

equipment	that	is	necessary	to	assess	the	

situation	and	should	be	discouraged	from	

confiscating	it	until	your	investigation	is	

complete.	You	should	arrange	to	investigate	

the	equipment	further	at	another	time,	in	case	

it	becomes	necessary.

5. As	soon	as	possible	after	the	accident,	obtain	

as	many	witness	statements	as	possible	and	

attach	the	written	statements	to	the	USPA	

Accident	Report	Form.	

6. Record	the	pertinent	information.

a. The	USPA	Accident	Report	Form	has	

itemized	entry	lines	for	the	

information	needed	for	a	thorough	

investigation	in	most	cases.

b. Filling	out	each	section	completely	

will	help	ensure	that	the	necessary	

information	has	been	recorded.

c. The	USPA	Accident	Report	Form	is	

included	in	the	back	of	this	manual,	

and	you	can	download	it	from	the	

USPA	website	at	www.uspa.org.

d. The	information	can	also	be	

submitted	securely	using the	online	

Accident	Report	Form available	at	

www.uspa.org.
SAFETY	& TRAINING	ADVISOR	HANDBOOK

UNITED	STATES	PARACHUTE	ASSOCIATION 7 JANUARY 2015

7. Most	skydiving	fatalities	occur	from	either	

human	error	or	a	problem	with	the	

equipment.	It	is	important	that	the	

investigation	uncover	the	true	cause	of	the	

fatality.	This	requires	that	the	investigator	be	

impartial	and	unbiased.	Opinions	and	

conjecture	will	only	harm	the	investigation	

and	could	lead	to	an	incorrect	conclusion.

8. Failure	to	submit	accident	reports	to	USPA	

Headquarters	for	accidents	that	result	in	a	

fatality,	injury	that	requires	medical	attention	

or	activation	of	an	automatic	activation	device	

may	result	in	the	Regional	Director	revoking	

the	S&TA	appointment.

Submission and Disposal of 

Accident Reports 

To	maintain	confidentiality	of	the	report	and	to	

protect	the	integrity	of	the	USPA	accident	and	fatality	

reporting	system,	USPA	observes	the	following	

operating	procedures.	S&TAs	should	carefully	follow	

the	procedures	outlined	for	their	role.

Non-Fatal Incident Reports 

1. The	investigating	S&TA	or,	in	the	absence	of	

an	S&TA,	a	USPA	Instructor	whom	the	S&TA	

assigns,	should	print	or	type	a	detailed	report	

of	each	significant	incident	and	send	the	

original	report	to	USPA	Headquarters.

2. USPA	Headquarters	stores	any	information	to	

identify	trends	for	USPA	and	the	skydiving	

industry.

3. Names	and	locations	are	not	stored	in	the	

electronic	database.

4. The	submitted	reports	are	destroyed	once	the	

accident	information	is	entered	into	the	

electronic	database.

5. Submitting	the	information	using	the	online	

accident	report	form	found	at	www.uspa.org	

will	help	ensure	accuracy	and	also	keep	the	

information	secure.

6. USPA	Headquarters	may	publish	a	brief	

synopsis	of	the	report	in	Parachutist,	

excluding	the	date,	specific	location	and	

names	of	anyone	involved.

Fatality Reports 

1. The	S&TA	or	other	reporting	USPA	official	

notifies	USPA	Headquarters	with	a	

preliminary	report.

2. Upon	receipt	of	the	initial	report,	verbal	or	

otherwise,	USPA	Headquarters	notifies	the	

USPA	Board	of	Directors	and	the	president	of	

the	Parachute	Industry	Association	of	any	

pertinent	details.

3. Upon	receipt	of	the	final	report	from	the	S&TA	

or	other	USPA	official	investigating	the	

accident,	USPA	Headquarters:

a. enters	the	pertinent	data in	an	

electronic	database,	removing	the	

name	of	the	deceased	and	the	

location	of	the	accident.

b. contacts	the	reporting	S&TA	if	there	

is	any	additional	information	needed.

c. disposes	of	any	information	

pertaining	to	the	identity	of	the	

deceased	jumper,	the	investigating	

official,	the	location	and	any	

witnesses.

d. prepares	a	narrative	report	for	

publication	in	Parachutist magazine	

of	the	relevant	events	of	the	accident,

excluding	the	date,	specific	location	

and	names	of	anyone	involved.

4. No	later	than	March	1	of	each	year,	USPA	

Headquarters	sends	the	electronically	stored	

data	of	all	fatalities	(without	identities	of	

victims,	investigators,	locations	or	witnesses)	

from	the	previous	year	to	the	author	of	the	

annual	fatality	summary	for	Parachutist

magazine,	who	is	selected	by	USPA	

Headquarters.

5. The	author	of	the	annual	fatality	report	is	to	

destroy	the supplied	accident	report	data	no	

later	than	30	days	after	the	publication	of	the	

annual	fatality	report	summary	in	Parachutist

magazine.

The Accident Report Form 

1. Accurate	use	of	the	accident	report	form	will	

help	to	ensure	that	all	of	the	necessary	

information	is	submitted	to	USPA.

2. Detailed	information	in	the	narrative	will	help	

USPA	produce	an	accurate	summary	of	the	

accident.

3. The	types	of	injuries	must	be	included	in	both	

fatal	and	non-fatal	reports.

4. If	the	report	is	non-fatal,	provide	the	

prognosis	for	the	jumper’s	recovery.

5. All	of	the	factors	that	led	to	the	accident	must	

also	be	included	in	order	to	help	determine	

how	the	accident	occurred.

USPA Policy Regarding 

Proprietary and Privileged 

Information 

Background 

The	success	of	USPA’s	safety	reporting	program	

depends	upon	the	free	exchange	of	information	

between	field	reporters	(e.g.,	S&TAs) and	USPA	

Headquarters.	As	long	as	reporting	officials	believe	

that	the	information	will	be	used	only	for	statistical	

and	educational	purposes	and	that	the	reports	

themselves	will	not	be	released	to	third	parties,	the	

reporting	system	will	continue	to	serve	the	best	
SAFETY	& TRAINING	ADVISOR	HANDBOOK

UNITED	STATES	PARACHUTE	ASSOCIATION 8 JANUARY 2015

interests	of	the	membership	as	a	whole.	If,	on	the	

other	hand,	this	privileged	information	is	released	to	

third	parties	for	whatever	reason,	USPA	will	lose	the	

trust	of	the	field	reporters	and,	with	it,	valuable	safetygenerating	data.

Policy 

USPA	incident	and	accident	reports,	whether	formal	or	

informal,	will	be	considered	privileged,	confidential	

documents	for	use	only	by	the	reporting	party	and	

USPA	officials	as	necessary	to	enhance	safety	through	

education	and training.

Any	and	all	requests	by	third	parties	to	access	such	

information	or	documents	will	be	referred	to	the	USPA	

Executive	Director,	who,	in	consultation	with	the	USPA	

President,	will	determine	the	need	to	refer	to	counsel.

Failure	to	adhere	to	these	procedures	will	subject	the	

violating	USPA	member	to	disciplinary	action	in	

accordance	with	Section	1-6	of	the	USPA	Governance	

Manual.	

FAA Regulations 

As	an	S&TA,	it	is	important	that	you	are	familiar	with	

the	Federal	Aviation	Regulations	that	govern	

skydiving	operations	in	the	United	States.	Pertinent	

passages	from	the	FARs	are	included	in	the	Skydiver’s	

Information	Manual	for	easy	reference.

Skydiving	remains	largely	unregulated	by	the	FAA	

because	of	the	valuable	relationship	between	

skydivers	and	the	FAA	that	USPA	officials	have	forged	

over	the	years.	However,	there	are	rules	that	have	

been	established	and	outlined	in	various	sections	of	

the	FARs	to	regulate	skydiving	flights	and	procedures,	

aircraft	modifications,	skydiving	equipment	and	

parachute	packing.	These	rules	are	established	

primarily	to	protect	the	public—those	on	the	ground	

and	others	using	the	airspace.

The	local	Flight	Standards	District	Office	of	the	FAA	

can	be	a	valuable	resource	on	matters	that	pertain	to	

the	FAA.	You	should	visit	your	local	FSDO	and	

introduce	yourself	to	those	who	are	involved	with	

skydiving	operations.	They	are	important	contacts	

that	you	want	to	make	before	you	need	to	conduct	

business	with	the	FAA.

Extraordinary Skydives and 

Exhibition Jumps 

Extraordinary Skydives 

Extraordinary	skydives	include	night	jumps,	water	

jumps,	jumps	from	above	15,000	feet	MSL,	exhibition	

jumps,	preplanned	breakaway	jumps	and	other	jumps	

requiring	special	equipment	or	procedures	that	might	

be	unfamiliar	to	most	jumpers.

S&TAs	should	refer	to	the	SIM	to	provide	the	BSRrequired	information	and	USPA-recommended	advice	

to	jumpers	on	the	specific	nature	of	the	skydive	that	

they	will	be	performing.	The	S&TA	should	also	review	

the	SIM	for	recommended	prior	experience	and	

licensing	of	each	skydiver	involved.

Before	advising	jumpers,	the	S&TA	should	be	familiar	

with	all	FARs,	BSRs	and	USPA	recommendations,	as	

well	as	the	specific	jump	operations	being	planned.

Exhibition Jumps 

Exhibition	jumps	are	defined	in	the	SIM,	and	several	

BSRs	specifically	apply	to	the	requirements	for	

skydivers	making	exhibition	jumps.	USPA	and	the	FAA	

have	agreed	on	additional	definitions	for	types	of	

demos,	based	on	the	size	and	layout	of	the	landing	

area.	These	definitions	are	included	in	the	SIM	and	in	

the	FAA	Inspector’s	Handbook.

USPA	administers	the	PRO	Exhibition	rating	to	qualify	

jumpers	for	exhibitions	into	stadiums	with	spectator	

stands	on	more	than	one	side	of	the	field	and	other	

restricted	landing	areas	defined	in	the	SIM	section	on	

PRO	ratings.	Refer	to	that	section	for	instructions	on	

administering	initial	PRO	rating	applications	and	other	

PRO	and	demonstration	jump	information.

Third-party	liability	demonstration	jump	insurance	is	

available	for	USPA	members	who	are	performing	

demo	jumps.	Regular	membership	third-party	liability	

skydiving	insurance	does	not	cover	demos.	Thirdparty	demo	insurance	is	contingent	on	the	observance	

of	USPA	rules	and	recommendations	for	exhibition	

jumps.	The	application	for	demonstration	jump	

insurance	requests	that	an	S&TA	be	consulted	for	any	

demonstration	jumps	that	are performed	in	their	area.

Wingsuit Skydiving Special 

Concerns 

The	discipline	of	wingsuiting	presents	some	different	

safety	concerns	because	of	the	increased	surface	area	

of	the	jumper	wearing	the	wingsuit,	the	ability	to	fly	

longer	horizontal	distances,	and	reduced	mobility	

during	and	after	deployment.	These	are	guidelines	for	

S&TAs	to	make	wingsuiting	safer.	

Requirement Checks for New 

Wingsuiters and Coaches 

The	Basic	Safety	Requirements	state:	“Any	person	

performing	a	wingsuit	jump	must	have	at	least	200	

wingsuit	skydives,	and	hold	a	current	USPA	license”.	

The	S&TA	should	ensure	that	new	wingsuiters	meet	

this	requirement.	The	S&TA	is	also	responsible	for	
SAFETY	& TRAINING	ADVISOR	HANDBOOK

UNITED	STATES	PARACHUTE	ASSOCIATION 9 JANUARY 2015

checking	the	experience	and	instructional	background	

of	those	coaching	new	wingsuiters.	Major	wingsuit	

manufacturers	offer	wingsuit	coach	rating	courses.	

They	require	100	wingsuit	jumps	to	attend	the	course.

First Flight Curriculum and 

Progression 

SIM	section	6-9	contains	a	general	first	flight	

curriculum	and	information	about	gear,	exits,	

navigation,	and	deployment	as	well	as	

recommendations	about	moving	to	more	advanced	

wingsuits	as	part	of	a	safe	progression.	Upsizing	

wingsuits	too	fast	(just	as	downsizing	canopies	too	

fast)	can	result	in	serious	injuries	to	the	aircraft,	

wingsuit	skydiver,	and	other	jumpers.	The	S&TA	

should	maintain	awareness	of	wingsuiters’	gear	and	

progression,	themselves	or	through	a	designated	

experienced	wingsuit	representative.

Special Gear Concerns 

The	S&TA	should	be	familiar	with	the	main	gear	

recommendations	for	wingsuiting:	

A	larger	pilot	chute	(minimum	28	inch	diameter),	

longer	bridle	(minimum	8	feet),	and	lightweight	pilot	

chute	handle	are	essential	to	allow	the	pilot	chute	to	

clear	the	larger	burble	of	the wingsuit	on	deployment.	

A	lightly	loaded,	docile	main	canopy	(1.4:1	or	lower	

recommended	wing	loading).	

Gear Checks 

Leg	straps	are	not	visible	under	most	wingsuits	and	

the	gearing-up	process	is	more	complicated	when	it	

includes	a	wingsuit.	The	S&TA	can	enforce	a	"RIG	

FIRST,	THEN	WINGSUIT"	approach	to	wingsuit	

gearing-up.	First,	the	rig	should	be	fully	on	and	ready	

to	skydive.	Then,	adjustments	to	the	wingsuit	can	be	

made	(booties,	zipping	up,	etc.)	Loaders	at	the	plane	

should	confirm	chest	strap	visually and	leg	straps	

either	visually	before	boarding	or	by	asking	

wingsuiters	to	shrug	for	a	self-check	and	confirm	

verbally.

Safe Exits 

Because	of	increased	surface	area,	wingsuit	skydivers	

are	at	higher	risk	of	tail	strikes	on	exit.	Whether	

exiting	from	inside	the	plane	or	from	a	floater	position,	

wingsuiters	must	close	their	wings	until	they	clear	the	

aircraft.	S&TAs	can	confirm	this	knowledge	and	

understanding	and	post	signage	near	manifest	and/or	

on	board	the	aircraft.

Pilot Communication 

S&TAs,	drop	zone	owners,	and	jumpers	should	

communicate	with	pilots	about	an	appropriate	cut	in	

airspeed	on	jump	run	that	will	make	exits	safer.	

Navigation 

S&TAs	should	oversee	a	flight	pattern	and	airspace	

rules.	The	three	main	reasons	for	this	are	to	ensure	

that	wingsuiters:	

1. Avoid	other	canopy	traffic		

2. Adhere	to	the	drop	zone’s	airspace	

restrictions	and	avoid	other	aircraft,	and		

3. Land	on	the	drop	zone.		

S&TAs	or	their	designated	experienced	wingsuit	

representatives	can	advise	new	wingsuiters	on	the	

rules	and	post	clear	guidelines	at	manifest.	S&TAs	can	

require	jumpers	new	to	the	drop	zone	to	do	a	nonwingsuit	skydive	first	to	become	familiar	with	the	

aerial	view,	jump	run,	and	airspace.	Below	is	a	basic	

sample	of	possible	wingsuit	flight	patterns.

D-License Verification and 

Renewal 

USPA	can	issue	licenses	and	renew	ratings	only	with	

complete	and	correctly	submitted	applications.	USPA	

Headquarters	returns	rejected	applications	to	the	

applicant.	Rejects	can	present	a	hardship	for	the	USPA	

member,	who	may	be	traveling	or	otherwise	

inconvenienced	in	trying	to	get	an	S&TA	to	correct	a	

mistake	on	an	application.

Before	signing	any	license	or	rating	renewal	

application,	verify	that	your	own	membership,	ratings	

and	appointment	as	an	S&TA	are	current.

USPA	officials,	including	S&TAs,	may	not	verify	the	

requirements	for	renewing	their	own	ratings.
SAFETY	& TRAINING	ADVISOR	HANDBOOK

UNITED	STATES	PARACHUTE	ASSOCIATION 10 JANUARY 2015

Licenses 

A	USPA	Instructor	may	administer	the	test	and	verify	

all	qualifications	for	A,	B	and	C	licenses,	but	a	D	license	

requires	an	S&TA	or	higher	USPA	official.	Refer	to	the	

instructions	for	USPA	skydiving	licenses	in	the	

Skydiver’s	Information	Manual	for	all	license	

verifications.

Rating Renewals 

An	S&TA	or	higher	USPA	official	is	required	to	verify	

renewal	applications	for	instructional	ratings	and	the	

PRO	rating.	Refer	to the	renewal	requirements	for	

instructional	ratings	listed	in	the	Introduction	and	

Orientation	section	at	the	beginning	of	the	training	

syllabus	for	each	instructional	rating	and	duplicated	in	

“IRM	Essentials,”	available	for	free	on	the	USPA	

website	at	www.uspa.org.	For	PRO	rating	and	renewal,	

refer	to	the	SIM	section	on	the	PRO	rating.	Rating	

renewal	instructions	also	appear	on	the	standard	

USPA	membership	and	rating	renewal	application.

Forms 

Attached	are	USPA forms	for	your	reference.	For	the	

most	current,	up-to-date	forms	published	by	USPA,	

click	on	Downloads	under	the	USPA	Members	tab	at	

www.uspa.org.

Accident	Report	Form

A-License	Progressions	Card	for	ISP	(4-page)

A-License	Proficiency	Card	(2-page)

Canopy	Piloting	Proficiency	Card

B-D	License	Application

Coach	Proficiency	Card

AFF	Instructor	Proficiency	Card

IAD/Static-Line	Proficiency	Card

Tandem	Proficiency	Card

A-D	License	Exams

A-D	License	Exam Answer	Keys

PRO	Rating	Exam #1

PRO	Rating	Exam #2

PRO	Rating	Exam Answer	Key
Age:__________ Height: __________ Exit Weight: ______ Wing Loading: _______ Sex: ❏ Male ❏ Female

Student or USPA License held: ❏ Student ❏ A ❏ B ❏ C ❏ D ❏ None

Time In Sport: ______________ Number of jumps: Total: ___________ Last 30 days: ________ Last 12 mo.: _____

Student jump (by type): ❏ SL ❏ IAD ❏ AFF ❏ Tandem ❏ Coach ❏ Other: ____________________

Experienced (check all that apply): ❏ Formation Skydiving ❏ Freeflying ❏ Video ❏ Canopy Formation

❏ Demo ❏ Night ❏ Water ❏ Freestyle ❏ Skysurfing ❏ Canopy Swooping ❏ Other: __________________

Harness and container system: Manufacturer: ______________________________ Model: ______________________

Main Canopy: Manufacturer: ______________________________ Model: ______________ Square feet: ________

Main packed by: ❏ Jumper ❏ FAA Rigger ❏ Supervised packer Condition: ____________________________

Reserve Canopy: Manufacturer: __________________________ Model: ______________ Square feet: __________

AAD: Manufacturer: ______________________ Model: ______________________ Turned on? ❏ Yes ❏ No 

RSL: ❏ Yes ❏ No Hooked up? ❏ Yes ❏ No 

Visual Altimeter: ❏ Analog ❏ Digital ❏ None Location: ❏ Wrist ❏ Chest ❏ Other: ________________

Audible Altimeter: ❏ Yes ❏ No Turned on? ❏ Yes ❏ No Helmet? ❏ Yes ❏ No Type: __________

Did the equipment, as far as can be determined, comply with Federal regulations? ❏ Yes ❏ No

Include any other relevant equipment information (use a a separate page if necessary). ________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

United States Parachute Association® Publications

May 2007 Accident Report Form

Accident Report

Purpose: USPA collects information on skydiving accidents

for the sole purpose of enhancing safety and preventing

accidents.

Applicability: This form should be submitted in all 

cases in which a skydiving incident raises a safety issue,

involves an injury requiring attention at a medical facility, or

results in a death. It can also be used to report near-accidents or other incidents from which a lesson can be learned.

Instructions: A USPA Safety & Training Advisor or (in the

absence of an S&TA) a USPA Instructor assigned by the

S&TA should complete this form. In the event of a fatality

involving more than one person, please use a separate form

for each individual. 

Submit this original form to: Director of Safety & Training,

USPA Headquarters, 5401 Southpoint Centre Blvd.,

Fredericksburg, VA 22407; (540) 604-9741 (fax).

Confidentiality: To ensure confidentiality of both the accident victim and the reporting official, USPA Headquarters

will separate and destroy Section 2 of this form as soon as

any necessary adjustments to the deceased member’s data

record is made. Do not retain any copies of this form.

Section 1: Complete for all incidents.

Section 2: Required for fatal accidents only.

Name of deceased:______________________________________________ USPA membership #: ________________

Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________

Address 2: __________________________________________________________________________________________

City: __________________________________________________ State: ________ Zip: ____________________

Location of incident: __________________________________________________________________________________

Date and time of incident: ______________________________________________________________________________

Equipment Jump Demographic

Type Info.

Victim Info.
Section 1 (cont.): Complete for all incidents.

Description Weather Aircraftof Incident Info.

Type of aircraft:_______________________________________________________________________________________

Other applicable aircraft and pilot information: ___________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Visibility: _________________ Ceiling: ________________ Surface winds: ____________ Temperature: __________

Other applicable weather conditions: ____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Provide a description of the incident including factual information obtained from the investigation and any witness

accounts. Do not add speculation or conjecture to the investigation report. Use a separate sheet, if necessary, and

attach all statements to this form. All accompanying documentation will be destroyed with this report.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Name: __________________________________________________________________ USPA #:__________________

Ratings: _____________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone number: ________________________________________ E-mail: ______________________________________

Signature: __________________________________________________________________ Date: __________________

Section 2 (cont.): Required for fatal accidents (optional for non-fatal reports).

Investigator Info.
This official document is your temporary license.

Please DO NOT send the original to USPA. Send a copy or fax the complete original.

Category A

FJC Date ______ Meth. ____

Adv. Criteria C/I Sign Lic.#

• Aircraft & exit safety _________ ______

• Safe exit _________ ______

AFF and Tandem Only

• Overall FF awareness _________ ______

• Stable for last 10 secs. _________ ______

• Altitude aware _________ ______

• Asst. pull w/in 1,000' _________ ______

• Land 60 deg. w/asst. _________ ______

• Land 100m w/asst. _________ ______

• Category quiz Date _________ ______

A-license check dive

License Requirement Instructor Lic. #

• Check dive with USPA Instructor

 (See SIM Sec. 3-2.A.1.c) ________ ______

• 25 skydives ________ ______

• A-license oral exam ________ ______

• A-license written exam ________ ______

 (See SIM Sec. 3-2.A.1.a)

• Joined USPA ________ ______

All blocks on this record must be 

initialed or signed as indicated.

Application instructions:

Email, fax or mail this completed form to USPA 

to register your license. DO NOT SEND THIS 

ORIGINAL DOCUMENT. Keep this document in 

a safe place until you receive a new membership 

card. Include the registration fee of:

$ ______ License Fee ($30)

$ ______ Expedite with fax or email 

confirmation ($20)

Fax # or email address (for expedites only)

______________________________________

$ ______ Total

Applicant’s Signature _____________________________

Official USPA A-license stamp:

This stamp and signature of a USPA Instructor or I/E

verifies that the applicant has completed all qualifications 

for the USPA A skydiving license and performed satisfactorily 

on the USPA A-license check dive. This temporary USPA 

A license expires 60 days from the date signed.

Instructor’s Name ____________________

Signature __________________________

USPA # ____________________________

Date ______________________________

Drop Zone Name ____________________

Category B

Exit and Freefall Date ________ I ______

Canopy Date ________ I ______

Emerg. Review Date ________C/I______

Equipment Date ________C/I______

Spot. and A/C Date ________C/I______

Adv. Criteria C/I Sign Lic.#

• Stable throughout _________ ______

• Leg control _________ ______

AFF and tandem only

• Solo pull w/in 500' ________ ______

Static line and IAD only

• 3 successive practice pulls ________ ______

• Descent strategy _________ ______

• Clearing before turns _________ ______

• Land 30 deg. w/asst. _________ ______

• Asked to join USPA _________ ______

• Category quiz Date _________ ______

USPA A License Progression Card and Application

Name __________________________________________________________ USPA # ______________

Address________________________________________________________________________________

City, State, and Zip ______________________________________________________________________

Telephone_____________________________________________________________________________

Email ________________________________________________________________________________

© 2014 United States Parachute Association October 2014

Category C

Exit and Freefall Date ________ I ______

Canopy Date ________ I ______

Emerg. Review Date ________C/I______

Equipment Date ________C/I______

Spot. and A/C Date ________C/I______

Adv. Criteria C/I Sign Lic.#

• Control w/in 5 secs. _________ ______

• Relaxed fall _________ ______

• FF heading awareness _________ ______

• Wave-off _________ ______

• FF w/one I (AFF) _________ ______

• Solo pull at correct alt. _________ ______

• Plan pattern for wind _________ ______

• Fly pattern w/min. asst. _________ ______

• Flare w/min. asst. _________ ______

• Category quiz Date _________ ______

Valid for 60 days.

(Stamp not required for registration 

at USPA Headquarters.)

Solo transition course (from tandem) 

(may be completed after Category A or B) Date _________Method ______Instructor __________

expiration date

(or enclose new membership application)

MO YR

3-digit security code

credit card number

Note: 

Each shaded line must be initialed by a current USPA Instructor. 

All other lines may be initialed by a current USPA Coach or Instructor.

Email copy to: safety@uspa.org

Mail copy to:

U.S. Parachute Association

5401 Southpoint Centre Blvd.

Fredericksburg, VA 22407

Or fax original to: (540) 604-9741

❑ ❑ ❑

Foreign payments must be with VISA, Discover or MasterCard.
Category F

Exit and Freefall Date ________C/I______

Canopy Date ________ I ______

Emerg. Review Date ________C/I______

Equipment Date ________C/I______

Spot. and A/C Date ________C/I______

Adv. Criteria C/I Sign Lic.#

• Tracking sequence w/in 30 degrees (3)

(1) __________ ______

(2) __________ ______

(3) __________ ______

• Clear and pull (5,500') _________ ______

• Clear and pull (3,500') _________ ______

• 180-degree turns in deep brakes (4)

(1) __________ ______

(2) __________ ______

(3) __________ ______

(4) __________ ______

• Braked approach _________ ______

• Land 25m w/o asst. (2)

(1) __________ ______

(2) __________ ______

• Pack w/asst. _________ ______

• Check other jumper’s gear

__________ ______

• Select spot _________ ______

• Spot w/min. asst. _________ ______

• Category quiz Date _________ ______

Category D

Exit and Freefall Date ________ I ______

Canopy Date ________ I ______

Emerg. Review Date ________C/I______

Equipment Date ________C/I______

Spot. and A/C Date ________C/I______

Adv. Criteria C/I Sign Lic.#

• Solo exit, stable w/in 5 secs.

__________ ______

• 90-degree FF turns w/in 20 degrees (4)

(1) __________ ______

(2) __________ ______

(3) __________ ______

(4) __________ ______

• 180-degree FF turns w/in 45 degrees (2)

(1) __________ ______

(2) __________ ______

• 360-degree FF turns w/in 45 degrees (2)

(1) __________ ______

(2) __________ ______

• 90-degree rear riser turns with brakes set (2)

(1) __________ ______

(2) __________ ______

• 90-degree rear riser turns with brakes released (2)

(1) __________ ______

(2) __________ ______

• 180-degree rear riser turn with brakes released

__________ ______

• 360-degree rear riser turn with brakes released

__________ ______

• Stand-up landing _________ ______

• Land w/in 50m (asst.) _________ ______

• Operate AAD _________ ______

• Observe jump run _________ ______

• Category quiz Date _________ ______

Category E

Exit and Freefall Date ________C/I______

Canopy Date ________ I ______

Emerg. Review Date ________C/I______

Equipment Date _______C/R/I_____

Spot. and A/C Date ________C/I______

Adv. Criteria C/I Sign Lic.#

• Stability recovery w/in 5 secs. (2)

(1) __________ ______

(2) __________ ______

• Jump without FF supervision

__________ ______

• Barrel roll _________ ______

• Backloop _________ ______

• Frontloop _________ ______

• Land w/o asst. w/in 50m _______ ______

• Calculate opening point ________ ______

• Participate w/jump run_________ ______

• Category quiz Date _________ ______

Category H

Freefall Date ________C/I______

Canopy Date ________ I ______

Emerg. Review Date ________C/I______

Equipment Date _______C/R/I_____

Spot. and A/C Date _______C/P/I_____

Adv. Criteria C/I Sign Lic.#

• Swoop and dock w/min. asst. (2)

(1) __________ ______

(2) __________ ______

• Break-off at alt. w/o prompt ______ ______

• Track 100' w/in 10 degrees _______ ______

• 90-degree front riser turns (2)

(1) __________ ______

(2) __________ ______

• 180-degree front riser turns (2)

(1) __________ ______

(2) __________ ______

(Front riser turns may be waived if too difficult.)

• Land 20m w/o asst. (3)

(1) __________ ______

(2) __________ ______

(3) __________ ______

• Replace closing loop _________ ______

• Assemble 3-ring _________ ______

• Category quiz Date _________ ______

Category G

Exit and Freefall Date ________C/I______

Canopy Date ________ I ______

Emerg. Review Date ________C/I______

Equipment Date _______C/R/I_____

Spot. and A/C Date _______C/P/I_____

Adv. Criteria C/I Sign Lic.#

• Redock from 10' w/o asst. (2)

(1) __________ ______

(2) __________ ______

• Redock w/adj. fall rate (2)

(1) __________ ______

(2) __________ ______

• Break-off at alt. w/o prompt ______ ______

• Track 50' w/in 10 degrees _______ ______

• Reverse canopy turns (4)

(1) __________ ______

(2) __________ ______

(3) __________ ______

(4) __________ ______

• Land 20m w/o asst. (2)

(1) __________ ______

(2) __________ ______

• Pack w/o asst. _________ ______

• Spot w/o asst. _________ ______

• Category quiz Date _________ ______

Note:

Prior to freefall self-supervision (typically after the first jump in Category E), 

all students must meet the standards listed in the USPA BSRs. Clearance to freefall 

self-supervision requires the endorsement of an appropriately rated USPA Instructor 

(signature in logbook). Under the supervision of a USPA Instructor, a USPA Coach 

may train only the freefall portions of Categories E-H. 
6. Check equipment for another skydiver.

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. # _____________

7. Perform manufacturer-recommended owner 

service on a canopy release system.

Date________ I ______ Lic. # _____________

8. Change or adjust a main closing loop.

Date________ I ______ Lic. # _____________

9. Show knowledge of FAA rules on parachute 

packing intervals and required personnel.

Date________ I ______ Lic. # _____________

Aircraft and spotting

1. Demonstrate understanding of seat belt use 

and applicable FARs.

Date________ I ______ Lic. # _____________

2. Identify local runway headings, lengths, and 

aircraft approach and departure patterns.

Date________ I ______ Lic. # _____________

3. Using an aviation winds aloft forecast, select 

the correct exit and opening point.

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. # _____________

4. Recite cloud clearance and visibility requirements for above and below 10,000 feet MSL.

Date________ I ______ Lic. # _____________

5. Receive a briefing on weight and balance, the 

effect of a jumper on aircraft control surfaces when 

outside an aircraft, spotting, and radio and 

onboard communication procedures.

Date________ I ______ Lic. # _____________

6. In routine jump conditions, plan with a jump 

pilot and spot the aircraft without assistance.

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. # _____________

Emergency review

(Each qualifying review session must be conducted 

after initial solo jump training on later dates.)

1. In a training harness, recognize and take appropriate action for all parachute malfunctions (two 

review sessions following the first-jump course).

Date________ I ______ Lic. # _____________

Date________ I ______ Lic. # _____________

2. Review power line avoidance and landings.

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. # _____________

3. Review tree avoidance and landings. 

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. # _____________

4. Review building avoidance and landings.

Date________ I ______ Lic. # _____________

5. Review water avoidance and landings.

Date________ I ______ Lic. # _____________

6. Review aircraft emergency procedures.

Date________ I ______ Lic. # _____________

License examination

License Requirement Instructor Lic. #

• Check dive with USPA instructor

 (See SIM Sec. 3-2.A.1.c) _________ _______

• 25 Skydives _________ _______

• A license oral exam _________ _______

• A license written exam _________ _______

• Joined USPA _________ _______

Application instructions:

Email, fax or mail this completed form to USPA 

to register your license. DO NOT SEND THIS 

ORIGINAL DOCUMENT. Keep this document in a 

safe place until you receive a new membership card. 

Include the registration fee of:

$_______ License Fee ($30)

$_______ Expedite with fax or email confirmation ($20)

Fax # or email address (for expedites only)

__________________________________________

$_______ Total

Official USPA A-license stamp:

This stamp and signature of a USPA Instructor or I/E verifies that the applicant has completed all qualifications for 

the USPA A skydiving license and performed satisfactorily 

on the USPA A-license check dive. This temporary USPA 

A license expires 60 days from the date signed.

Instructor’s Name _______________________

Signature_______________________________

USPA # ______________Date______________

Drop Zone Name _______________________

Valid for 60 days.

(Stamp not required for registration 

at USPA Headquarters.)

Exit and freefall skills

1. Demonstrate freefall control on all axes, with a 

backloop, front loop, and barrel roll.

Date________ I* _____ Lic. #*_____________

2. Dive a minimum of 100 feet after another 

jumper and dock safely without assistance from the 

other jumper (two times).

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. #_____________

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. #_____________

3. Plan and independently execute a break-off 

from a group skydive with a minimum 100 feet 

of horizontal separation from another jumper or 

group. Separation must be gained independently 

in a straight track within ten degrees of a radial 

heading from the center of the formation.

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. #_____________

4. Locate and open clear of other jumpers and 

wave off to signal deployment.

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. #_____________

5. Jump and deploy while stable within five seconds after exit from 3,500 feet AGL.

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. #_____________

6. Complete 25 skydives.

Date # ______ I ______ Lic. #_____________

Canopy skills

1. Plan and fly a landing approach pattern that 

promotes smooth traffic flow and avoids obstacles.

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. #_____________

2. Demonstrate a stand-up landing.

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. #_____________

3. Perform a braked approach and landing.

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. #_____________

*All verification blocks require the initials and C- or 

D-license number of a USPA Instructor or I/E.

4. Land within 20 meters of a preselected target 

on at least five jumps.

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. # _____________

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. # _____________

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. # _____________

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. # _____________

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. # _____________

5. Perform rear-riser turns (brakes set and released).

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. # _____________

6. Above 2,500 feet, perform a maximum-performance 90-degree toggle turn, followed immediately by a turn of at least 180 degrees in the opposite 

direction (two times).

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. # _____________

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. # _____________

7. Above 1,000 feet, perform front riser dives and 

turns (may be waived if insufficient strength).

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. # _____________

8. Accurately predict the presence and effects of 

turbulence in the landing area.

Jump #______ I ______ Lic. # _____________

Equipment knowledge

1. Demonstrate knowledge, inspection, donning, 

use, and owner maintenance of all equipment to 

be used on the jump.

Date________ I ______ Lic. # _____________

2. Calculate the wing loading of both main and 

reserve canopies and compare the sizes against the 

manufacturer’s published recommendations.

Date________ I ______ Lic. # _____________

3. Demonstrate the understanding, use, and 

disconnection of a reserve static line.

Date________ I ______ Lic. # _____________

4. Demonstrate the understanding and use of an 

automatic activation device.

Date________ I ______ Lic. # _____________

5. Pack a main parachute without assistance.

Date________ I ______ Lic. # _____________

USPA A License Proficiency Card and Application

Name __________________________________________________________ USPA # ______________

Address________________________________________________________________________________

City, State, and Zip ______________________________________________________________________

Telephone_____________________________________________________________________________

Email ________________________________________________________________________________

©2014 United States Parachute Association October 2014

(or enclose new membership application)

❑ ❑ ❑

Applicant’s signature_______________________ Mail copy to U.S. Parachute Association, 5401 Southpoint 

Centre Blvd., Fredericksburg, VA 22407; or fax to 

(540) 604-9741, or email to safety@uspa.org

three-digit

security code

expiration MO YR date

Foreign payments must be with VISA, Discover or MasterCard.
Canopy discovery drills

Jump 1) Evaluation Jump

•	Collapse slider

•	Loosen chest strap

•	Check brake line length

•	Practice flares up high

•	Plan and execute a distinct downwind, base

and final approach

Jump 2) Basic Aerodynamics, 

Effective Flaring and Riser Turns

•	Practice flares, five with eyes open

•	Practice flares, five with eyes closed

•	90, 180, 360-degree turn with rear risers

•	Plan and execute a distinct downwind, base

and final approach

Jump 3) Stalls

•	Rear riser flare (simulated landing)

•	Full ram-air stall using toggles

•	Full ram-air stall using rear risers

•	Plan and execute a distinct downwind, base

and final approach

Jump 4) Flat Turns and Crosswind Landings

•	Flare from 1/4, 1/2, 3/4 brakes (simulated landing)

•	180-degree braked turn (1/4, 1/2, 3/4 brakes)

•	Plan and execute a crosswind oriented downwind,

base and final approach

Jump 5) Long Spot

•	Return from long spot

Comparison:

•	Using toggles

•	Using rear risers

•	Plan and execute a distinct downwind, base

and final approach

Instructions

This completed and signed canopy proficiency card is required to obtain a USPA B license.

Candidates must include a copy of this card with the USPA B license application to USPA

Headquarters in order for USPA to issue the B license. USPA does not issue advanced canopy

ratings or qualify canopy piloting instructor examiners.

USPA requires drop zone management to verify the qualifications of the S&TA and verifying

officials. A current USPA Safety & Training Advisor (S&TA), Instructor Examiner, Coach 

Examiner, or Board Member must verify that the training has been completed by endorsing this

proficiency card. See Section 6-10 of the USPA Skydiver's Information Manual (SIM) for the

course director requirements. Candidates must perform these training jumps during dedicated

clear-and-pull skydives from at least 5,000 feet.

Canopy Pilot: By observing recommendations outlined in Section 6-10 and 6-11 (and other related

sections) of the SIM, you have exhibited a level of commitment to safe canopy piloting.

Training

Reviewed SIM Section 6-10

Authorized Signature: ________________________________________________________

USPA Membership or License Number: ____________________________________ Date: _________

Reviewed SIM Section 6-11

Authorized Signature:_________________________________________________________

USPA Membership or License Number: ____________________________________ Date: _________

Canopy pilot information

Name: ____________________________________________________________________

USPA Number: ___________________________ Expiration Date: ______/______/______

Mailing Address: ______________________________________________________________________

Add’l. Address: ______________________________________________________________________

City: ___________________ State: _____ Zip or Postal Code: __________ Country: _______________

Weekday Phone: (______) ___________________ E-mail: ____________________________________

License Number:_____________________________ Total Sport Jumps: ____________________________

Canopy Type and Size: _________________________________________________________________

Signature identification (S&TA, IE, CE, BOD)

(Print Name):_______________________________________________________________

(Signature): ________________________________________________________________

USPA Membership or License Number: _________________________________________

Verifying Official's Name:

_______________________________________

Signature: ______________________________

License: ________________________________

Date: __________________________________

Verifying Official's Name:

_______________________________________

Signature: ______________________________

License: ________________________________

Date: __________________________________

Verifying Official's Name:

_______________________________________

Signature: ______________________________

License: ________________________________

Date: __________________________________

Verifying Official's Name:

_______________________________________

Signature: ______________________________

License: ________________________________

Date: __________________________________

Verifying Official's Name:

_______________________________________

Signature: ______________________________

License: ________________________________

Date: __________________________________

USPA CANOPY PILOTING PROFICIENCY CARD

OCT. 2013
❏ ❏	 ❏ OR ❏ check Make U.S. checks only payable to “USPA.” 

Total Jumps

Total Freefall Time

Mail to USPA • 5401 Southpoint Centre Blvd. • Fredericksburg, VA 22407 • with $30 for each license requested; or Email to safety@uspa.org or Fax (540) 604-9741 with your credit card authorization.

UNITED STATES PARACHUTE ASSOCIATION® LICENSE APPLICATION

License Number(s) Issued:

Type

❏ B

❏ C

❏ D

2. SKILL TABLES

Fill in the number of the highest license you currently hold and all the 

information requested for each license that is higher than the one you 

currently hold, up to and including the license you are applying for. For 

each license requirement met, write in either the number of the jump, the 

date of the training or the score, accordingly. The verifying official must 

initial each block of the skill verification table and sign the verification box. 

Refer to the Skydiver’s Information Manual, Section 3, for specific 

requirements.

NOTE: License applications must be signed by a 

verifying official.

A D-license application requires the 

signature of a member of the USPA 

Board of Directors, a Safety & 

Training Advisor or an Instructor 

Examiner. 

Applications for B and C licenses may be signed by 

any current USPA Instructor or higher.

I certify that I have personally checked the applicant’s logbook(s) and found documentation that 

the applicant has met all applicable requirements as specified in the Skydiver’s Information Manual, Section 3-1.

◊ List jump numbers used to meet the accuracy requirements:________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

(Please type or print.)

Name __________________________________________________________

Street Address ___________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

City_____________________________________ State _____________ Zip__

Country___________________ U.S. Citizen ❏ Yes ❏ No DOB___ / ___ /___

X _________________________________________

Signature of Applicant

Accuracy (10 jumps)

Maneuvers 

Water Training

Canopy Course (See SIM 3-1)

Exam Score 

Requirements Jump No. 

or date

Initial

Night Jump #1

Night Jump #2 

Exam Score 

Requirements Jump No. 

or date

Initial

Accuracy (25 jumps) 

Maneuvers

Exam Score 

Requirements Jump No. 

or date

Initial

◊ ◊

1. EXPERIENCE (Fill in both categories)

3. KNOWLEDGE

A USPA Instructor administers the written 

exam(s) (B, C, and D licenses), records 

the passing score(s) in the skill table(s), 

and initials the box(es).

❏ Experience table completed—Block 1.

❏ All appropriate boxes on skill table completed—Block 2.

❏ Signature (in verification box) of appropriately-rated 

verifying official—Block 4.

4. VERIFICATION (Please print or type) 5. CHECK LIST

#______________ B LICENSE Number (or fill out below)

#______________ A LICENSE Number*

#______________ C LICENSE Number (or fill out below) D

Name of verifying official (Print legibly) Membership number and title

Signature of verifying official Date

USPA #

NOTE: D LICENSE 

REQUIRES SIGNATURE 

OF S&TA OR HIGHER.

*If applying for A-license 

provide a photocopy of a 

completed USPA A-License 

Application, signed by a USPA 

Instructor, Instructor Examiner or 

member of the USPA Board of 

Directors.

U.S. payments: Mail check or money order payable to “USPA” or pay by VISA, MasterCard or Discover.

Foreign payments: Only VISA, MasterCard and Discover accepted for foreign payment.

No foreign checks or money orders.

$ _____ License Fee ($30 each license)

$ _____ Expedite with fax or email confirmation (add $20)

$ _____ Total Phone # __________________________________

Fax # or email address _______________________

month year

expiration date

3-digit security code

on back of card

12/14
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APPLICATION CHECKLIST

The verifying official signing the license application should double check 

that each of these items has been completed:

A. Applicant’s personal information

B. Experience verification:

1. Number of jumps

2. Freefall time

C. Skill verification:

Verify (with your initials) that the jump number, date, or 

score for each requirement is correct and can be found in 

the applicant’s logbook, OR enter the applicant’s 

appropriate license number in the box provided.

D. Knowledge verification: Check that the written exam answer 

sheet is complete with a passing score recorded on 

the application.

E. Final Verification:

1. Sign the verifying official’s certification statement and print 

your name, license number (or title), and date.

2. Mail the completed license application along with the fee.

LICENSE EXAM INSTRUCTIONS

A. Exam administrator:

1. Give the applicant this answer sheet and the questions to the 

exam. Do not permit references or other assistance during 

the exam. After the test, collect the materials and grade the 

exam. 75% (19 or more for the B-license and C-license 

exams; 30 or more required for the A-license and D-license 

exams) is required to pass.

2. Record the score on the license application and in the 

applicant’s logbook. The applicant not passing will be 

eligible to retake this exam after seven days. To qualify for a 

higher license, the applicant must have passed all lower class 

license exams.

B. Applicant:

1. Write your name on this answer sheet.

2. Select the best available answer for each question and write 

the corresponding letter in the space provided.

3. When you finish, return this answer sheet and all exam 

questions to the person administering the test to you.

NOTE: USPA license exams must be administered by 

a USPA Instructor, Instructor Examiner, Safety & 

Training Advisor, or a member of the USPA Board.

APPLICANT (Please Type or Print)

Name: ________________________________ Signature: ___________________________

USPA Membership No. ______________________________________ Date________ / ________ /________

UNITED STATES PARACHUTE ASSOCIATION® LICENSE EXAM ANSWER SHEET

SCORE: ______ SCORE: ______ SCORE: ______ SCORE: ______
Candidate: Refer to the rating requirements listed in the Introduction 

and Orientation section of the USPA Coach Rating Course outline in the 

USPA Instructional Rating Manual. Some requirements are listed there 

alone, and some are listed only on this proficiency card. 

Sign-off dates prior to the course may not be more than 24 months old as 

of the course start date. Many requirements may be performed in conjunction with a USPA Coach Rating Course. 

Verifying Officials: Use this form to record that the candidate has 

met all necessary requirements for the USPA Coach rating. The level of 

official verification is indicated with each requirement. Each of the 

undersigned certifies that he or she has personally verified those 

qualifications listed. 

BEFORE THE USPA COACH RATING COURSE:

1. Correctly answered at least 80% of the questions on the 

USPA Coach Final Examination. 

Course examiner signature Date

2 Assisted in one complete solo first-jump course.

USPA Instructor signature Date

AT THE USPA COACH RATING COURSE:

3. Successfully conducted two satisfactory training sessions from the topics listed in the Coach Rating Course 

Evaluation outline.

Evaluator signature Date

Evaluator signature Date

4. Demonstrated the ability to teach the following topics 

from Categories F-H of the ISP.

• floater exit Evaluator signature Date

• diver exit Evaluator signature Date

• forward and dock Evaluator signature Date

• fall rate Evaluator signature Date

• tracking with awareness Evaluator signature Date

5. Demonstrated the ability to conduct a satisfactory debriefing.

Evaluator signature Date

6. Correctly performed a pre-jump equipment check.

Evaluator signature Date

I certify that ___________________________________________________________________has:

name of candidate

USPA COACH RATING APPLICATION

Name_______________________________________________ USPA #: _______ Expiration Date:______/______/______/

Mailing Address _______________________________________________________________________________________

Add’l. Address ________________________________________________________________________________________

City ______________________________ State _______ Zip or Postal Code ______________ Country___________

Weekday Phone ( _______) _____________________ E-Mail _______________________________________________

DOB:______/______/______/ Sex: ❑ M ❑ F Occupation:____________________________________

License Number: _____________________ (Must be USPA B or higher)

Total Freefall Time: __________________ Total Sport Jumps: ________________

Applicant’s Signature (for future authentication purposes): _____________________________________________________

$35 Rating Fee: ❑ Paid by candidate with application ❑ Returned with After-Action Report

❑ ❑

Signature: ____________________________________________________

expiration MO YR date

3-digit 

security

code

Coach Rating Course Proficiency Card

Coach
Coach

7. Successfully completed two air evaluations.

Evaluator signature Date

Evaluator signature Date

8. Participated in all portions of the USPA Coach 

Rating Course.

Course examiner signature Date

RATING RECOMMENDATION

I have personally examined and recommend this applicant for 

the USPA Coach rating. He or she has demonstrated the ability to, under the supervision of a USPA Instructor, teach the 

general (non-method-specific) sections of the first jump 

course, conduct group freefall skills training, supervise students making group freefall training jumps, and conduct recurrency training and jumps with licensed skydivers.

Course examiner name (please print) Member #

Course examiner signature

Course Date ___________________

Original Course Location

Page 2 CANDIDATE NAME__________________________ Member # ________________

COURSE/EXAMINER VERIFICATION CHECKLIST

(Examiners, please verify the following)

❑ Examiner membership and rating expiration date__________

❑ Course Location_____________________(must be a current USPA Group Member drop zone)

❑ Candidate USPA Membership expiration date___________

❑ Full Course ❑ Challenge Course (See Section 1 of course syllabus for requirements)

❑ Proof of non-USPA Coach rating (challenge only)

Coach
I certify that ___________________________________________________________________has:

Candidate: Refer to the rating requirements listed in the Introduction 

and Orientation section of the USPA AFF Instructor Rating Course 

outline in the USPA Instructional Rating Manual. Some requirements 

are listed there alone, and some are listed only on this Proficiency Card. 

Sign-off dates may not be more than 24 months old as of the course start 

date. Many requirements may be performed in conjunction with a USPA 

AFF Instructor Rating Course. 

Verifying Officials: Use this form to record that the candidate has met all 

necessary requirements for the USPA AFF Instructor rating. The level 

of official verification is indicated with each requirement. Each of the 

undersigned certifies that he or she has personally verified those 

qualifications listed. 

*Current USPA Instructors need not meet starred requirements.

AFF Instructor Rating Course Proficiency Card

name of candidate

PRIOR TO ARRIVAL AT THE USPA INSTRUCTOR 

RATING COURSE:

1. Assisted in two AFF first-jump courses.

AFF Instructor signature Date

AFF Instructor signature Date

2. Assisted in two Category C and two Category D AFF 

ground preps.

CATEGORY C AFF Instructor signature Date

CATEGORY C AFF Instructor signature Date

CATEGORY D AFF Instructor signature Date

CATEGORY D AFF Instructor signature Date

3. Observed all AFF ground preps in Categories A through E.

AFF Instructor signature Date

4.* Correctly taught freefall stability and basic freefall 

maneuvers, including freefall turns, backloops, barrel 

rolls, front loops, and tracking.

USPA Instructor signature Date

5.*Prepared an effective canopy flight plan and provided 

ground-to-air (for example, radio) instruction for winds 

up to 14 mph.

USPA Instructor signature Date

6.*Participated in the spotting and aircraft lessons from 

Categories D through H (or equivalent training).

(initials:) Category D ______ Category G _______

Category E ______ Category H _______

Category F ______

USPA Instructor signature Date

USPA AFF INSTRUCTOR RATING APPLICATION

Name_______________________________________________ USPA #: _______ Expiration Date:______/______/______/

Mailing Address _______________________________________________________________________________________

Add’l. Address ________________________________________________________________________________________

City ______________________________ State _______ Zip or Postal Code ______________ Country___________

Weekday Phone ( _______) _____________________ E-Mail _______________________________________________

DOB: ______/______/______/ Sex: ❑ M ❑ F Occupation: ___________________________________

License Number: _____________________ (USPA C or higher required.)

Total Freefall Time: __________________ (six hours minimum required.) Total Sport Jumps: ________________

Applicant’s Signature (for future authentication purposes): _____________________________________________________

$50 Rating Fee: ❑ Paid by candidate with application ❑ Returned with After-Action Report

❑ ❑

Signature: ____________________________________________________

expiration MO YR date

3-digit 

security

code

AFF
7.* Made 10 jumps to teach and observe basic group freefall 

skills (verification of 10 entries in the candidate’s logbook).

AFF Course Examiner signature Date

8. Correctly answered at least 80% of the questions on the 

USPA AFF Instructor Final Examination. 

Course examiner signature Date

AT THE USPA INSTRUCTOR RATING COURSE:

9.* Demonstrated competence to gear up and check a student.

USPA Instructor signature Date

10 On practice release jumps using an AFF Instructor as a 

student:

• stabilized inverted student AFF evaluator signature Date

• stopped a spin AFF evaluator signature Date

• deployed for a student AFF evaluator signature Date

11.Completed one satisfactory Category C and one 

Category D ground preparation evaluation.

• Category C AFF evaluator signature Date

• Category D AFF evaluator signature Date

12. Completed three satisfactory air evaluations, Category C 

main side, Category C reserve side, and Category D 

(modified). 

• Category C (m) AFF evaluator signature Date

• Category C (r) AFF evaluator signature Date

• Category D AFF evaluator signature Date

13. Participated in all portions of the USPA AFF Instructor 

Rating Course.

Course examiner signature Date

RATING RECOMMENDATION

I have personally examined and recommend this applicant for 

the USPA AFF Instructor rating. He or she has demonstrated 

the ability to train and jump with AFF students and to train 

and supervise non-method-specific 

students for the USPA A license.

Course examiner name (please print) and member #

Course examiner signature

Date__________________________

Course Location

COURSE/EXAMINER VERIFICATION CHECKLIST

(Examiners, please verify the following)

❑ Examiner membership and rating expiration date__________

❑ Course Location_____________________(must be a current USPA Group Member drop zone)

❑ Candidate USPA Membership expiration date___________

❑ Full Course ❑ Challenge Course (See Section 1 of course syllabus for requirements)

❑ Proof of non-USPA AFF rating (challenge only)

Page 2 CANDIDATE NAME__________________________ Member # ________________

AFF
IAD/Static-Line

I certify that ___________________________________________________________________has:

Candidate: Refer to the rating requirements listed in the Introduction 

and Orientation section of the USPA IAD and Static-Line Instructor 

Rating Course outline in the USPA Instructional Rating Manual. Some 

requirements are listed there alone, and some are listed only on this proficiency card. 

Sign-off dates may not be more than 24 months old as of the course start 

date. Many requirements may be performed in conjunction with a USPA 

IAD or Static-Line Instructor Rating Course. 

Verifying Officials: Use this form to record that the candidate has met all 

necessary requirements for the USPA IAD or Static-Line Instructor rating. 

The level of official verification is indicated with each requirement. Each of 

the undersigned certifies that he or she has personally verified those qualifications listed. 

*Current USPA Instructors need not meet starred requirements.

IAD and Static-Line Instructor Rating Course

Proficiency Card

name of candidate

PRIOR TO ARRIVAL AT THE USPA INSTRUCTOR RATING 

COURSE:

1. Assisted in two IAD or static-line first-jump courses.

❑ IAD or ❑ Static-Line Instructor signature Date

❑ IAD or ❑ Static-Line Instructor signature Date

2. Assisted in training a skydiver on at least three practice 

deployment IAD or static-line jumps, including debriefing.

❑ IAD or ❑ Static-Line Instructor signature Date

❑ IAD or ❑ Static-Line Instructor signature Date

❑ IAD or ❑ Static-Line Instructor signature Date

3. Conducted four simulated or actual IAD or static-line 

jumps with 

experienced jumpers (B license and 100 jumps) acting as 

students.

❑ IAD or ❑ Static-Line Instructor signature Date

❑ IAD or ❑ Static-Line Instructor signature Date

❑ IAD or ❑ Static-Line Instructor signature Date

❑ IAD or ❑ Static-Line Instructor signature Date

4.* Observed ground preps in Categories B, C, E, and F.

USPA Instructor signature Date

USPA IAD AND STATIC-LINE INSTRUCTOR RATING APPLICATION

Name_______________________________________________ USPA #: _______ Expiration Date:______/______/______/

Mailing Address _______________________________________________________________________________________

Add’l. Address ________________________________________________________________________________________

City ______________________________ State _______ Zip or Postal Code ______________ Country___________

Weekday Phone ( _______) _____________________ E-Mail _______________________________________________

DOB: ______/______/______/ Sex: ❑ M ❑ F Occupation: _____________________________________

License Number: _____________________ (USPA C License or higher equivalent.)

Total Freefall Time: __________________ Total Sport Jumps: ________________

Applicant’s Signature (for future authentication purposes): _____________________________________________________

$50 Rating Fee: ❑ Paid by candidate with application ❑ Returned with After-Action Report

❑ ❑

Signature: ____________________________________________________

expiration MO YR date

3-digit 

security

code

IAD/Static-Line
5. *Assisted in training at least two first-solo freefall students, including debriefing.

USPA Instructor signature Date

USPA Instructor signature Date

6. *Correctly taught freefall stability and basic freefall 

maneuvers, including freefall turns, backloops, barrel 

rolls, front loops, and tracking.

USPA Instructor signature Date

7. *Prepared an effective canopy flight plan and provided 

ground-to-air (for example, radio) instruction for winds 

up to 14 mph.

USPA Instructor signature Date

8. *Participated in the spotting and aircraft lessons from 

Categories D through H (or equivalent training).

(initials:) Category D ______ Category G _______

Category E ______ Category H _______

Category F ______

USPA Instructor signature Date

9.* Made 10 jumps to teach and observe basic group freefall 

skills (verification of 10 entries in the candidate’s logbook).

Course Examiner’s signature Date

10. Correctly answered at least 80% of the questions on the 

USPA (check one) ❑ IAD or ❑ Static-Line Instructor Final 

Examination. 

Course examiner signature Date

AT THE USPA INSTRUCTOR RATING COURSE:

11. Demonstrated satisfactory knowledge of static-line rigging procedures for both direct-bag and static-line assist 

(static-line only).

Course examiner signature Date

12. *Demonstrated competence to gear up and check a student.

Evaluator signature Date

13. *Demonstrated competence to spot for a student.

Evaluator signature Date

14. Received personal instruction from an USPA IAD or 

Static-Line Instructor (per rating sought) on the following 

emergency areas:

• aircraft Course examiner signature Date

• static-line student in tow Course examiner signature Date

15. Completed one satisfactory IAD or static-line Category B 

training evaluation.

Course examiner signature Date

16.* Completed one satisfactory Category D freefall and 

canopy training session and air evaluation.

Course examiner signature Date

17. Conducted at least two actual IAD or static-line jumps.

Course examiner signature Date

Course examiner signature Date

18. Participated in all portions of the USPA (check one)

❑ IAD or ❑ Static-Line (check one) Instructor Rating 

Course.

Course examiner signature Date

RATING RECOMMENDATION

I have personally examined and recommend this applicant for 

the USPA IAD or Static-Line Instructor rating. He or she has 

demonstrated the ability to train and supervise ❑ IAD 

❑ static-line (check one) students and to train and supervise 

non-method-specific students for the USPA A license.

Course examiner name (please print) and member #

Course examiner signature Date

Course Location Training Method (IAD or Static-Line)

COURSE/EXAMINER VERIFICATION CHECKLIST

(Examiners, please verify the following)

❑ Examiner membership and rating expiration date__________

❑ Course Location_____________________(must be a current USPA Group Member drop zone)

❑ Candidate USPA Membership expiration date___________

❑ Full Course ❑ Challenge Course (See Section 1 of course syllabus for requirements)

❑ Proof of non-USPA Static-Line/IAD rating (challenge only)

Page 2 CANDIDATE NAME__________________________ Member # ________________

IAD/Static-Line
Candidate: Refer to the rating requirements listed in the Introduction 

and Orientation section of the USPA Tandem Instructor Rating Course 

outline in the USPA Instructional Rating Manual. Some requirements are 

listed there alone, and some are listed only on this proficiency card. 

Sign-off dates may not be more than 24 months old as of the course start 

date. Many requirements may be performed in conjunction with a USPA 

Tandem Instructor Rating Course. Course only requirements must be 

completed within 12 months of the start of the course.

Verifying Officials: Use this form to record that the candidate has met 

all necessary requirements for the USPA Tandem Instructor rating. The level 

of official verification is indicated with each requirement. Each of the undersigned certifies that he or she has personally verified those 

qualifications listed. 

*Current USPA Instructors need not meet starred requirements.

Tandem Instructor Rating Course Proficiency Card

I certify that ___________________________________________________________________has:

name of candidate

PRIOR TO ARRIVAL AT THE USPA INSTRUCTOR RATING 

COURSE:

1. Assisted in two tandem first-jump courses toward 

Category A requirements.

USPA Tandem Instructor signature Date

USPA Tandem Instructor signature Date

2. Assisted in two Category B tandem ground preps. 

USPA Tandem Instructor signature Date

USPA Tandem Instructor signature Date

3.* Assisted in two Category D ground preps. 

USPA Instructor signature Date

USPA Instructor signature Date 

4.* Observed ground preps in Categories B, C, E, and F.

USPA Instructor signature Date

5.* Correctly taught freefall stability and basic freefall maneuvers, including freefall turns, backloops, barrel rolls, front 

loops, and tracking.

USPA Instructor signature Date

6.*Prepared an effective canopy flight plan and provided 

ground-to-air (for example, radio) instruction for winds 

up to 14 mph.

USPA Instructor signature Date

7.*Participated in the spotting and aircraft lessons from 

Categories D through H (or equivalent training).

(initials:) Category D ______ Category G _______

Category E ______ Category H _______

Category F ______

USPA Instructor signature Date

USPA TANDEM INSTRUCTOR RATING APPLICATION

Name_______________________________________________ USPA #: _______ Expiration Date:______/______/______/

Mailing Address _______________________________________________________________________________________

Add’l. Address ________________________________________________________________________________________

City ______________________________ State _______ Zip or Postal Code ______________ Country___________

Weekday Phone ( _______) _____________________ E-Mail _______________________________________________

DOB:______/______/______/ Sex: ❑ M ❑ F Occupation: ___________________________________

License Number:________________ (USPA D license required.) 

FAA Medical Exp. Date ___________ (include copy of medical with this application)

Total Freefall Time: ___________________ Total Sport Jumps:_____________ (minimum 500 required.)

Applicant’s Signature (for future authentication purposes): _____________________________________________________

$50 Rating Fee: ❑ Paid by candidate with application ❑ Returned with After-Action Report

Signature: ____________________________________________________

❑ ❑

expiration MO YR date

3-digit 

security

code

Tandem
8. Demonstrated five practice tandem cutaways wearing 

tandem equipment and with a simulated student in the 

student harness in the presence of a USPA Tandem 

Instructor or Tandem Instructor Examiner.

Supervising USPA Tandem Instructor signature Date

9.* Made 10 jumps to teach and observe basic group freefall 

skills (verification of 10 entries in the candidate’s logbook).

Course examiner signature Date

10. Correctly answered at least 80% of the questions on the 

USPA Tandem Instructor Final Examination. 

Course examiner signature Date

AT THE USPA INSTRUCTOR RATING COURSE:

11.During tandem jumps, demonstrated the ability to perform all the following:

• Establish and maintain stability throughout the jump.

Evaluator signature Date

• Recover from intentional, planned instability on exit.

Evaluator signature Date

• Heading control during tandem freefall and droguefall.

Evaluator signature Date

12. Earned a score of Satisfactory on all sections and subsections of the Tandem In-Air Skills and Instruction 

Evaluation Form and the Training, Supervision, and 

Debriefing Evaluation Form.

Course examiner signature Date

13. Correctly and completely rigged a simulated student for a 

tandem jump and completed a satisfactory pre-jump 

check of all associated systems.

Evaluator signature Date

14. Conducted five successful initial tandem evaluation 

jumps.

1. Evaluator signature Date

2. Evaluator signature Date

3. Evaluator signature Date

4. Evaluator signature Date

5. Evaluator signature Date

15.* Correctly prepared and checked a solo student’s equipment, including canopy selection, prior to rigging up.

USPA Instructor signature Date

16.* Completed one satisfactory Category D freefall and 

canopy training session and air evaluation during a 

Tandem Instructor Rating Course.

Course Examiner signature Date

17. Participated in all portions of the USPA Tandem 

Instructor Rating Course.

Course examiner signature Date

18. Has a minimum of 3 years of experience in parachuting.

Course examiner signature Date

19. Conducted five practice tandem jumps.

1. Supervising USPA Tandem Instructor signature Date

2. Supervising USPA Tandem Instructor signature Date

3. Supervising USPA Tandem Instructor signature Date

4. Supervising USPA Tandem Instructor signature Date

5. Supervising USPA Tandem Instructor signature Date

RATING RECOMMENDATION

I have personally examined and recommend this applicant for 

the USPA Tandem Instructor rating. He or she has demonstrated the ability to train and jump with tandem students and 

to train and supervise non-method-specific students for the 

USPA A license.

USPA Tandem Instructor Examiner name and Member #

USPA Tandem Instructor Examiner signature

Date__________________________

Course Location

Tandem Equipment Used for Rating

Page 2 CANDIDATE NAME__________________________ Member # ________________

Tandem

COURSE/EXAMINER VERIFICATION CHECKLIST

(Examiners, please verify the following)

❑ Examiner membership and rating expiration date__________

❑ Course Location_____________________

(must be a current USPA Group Member drop zone)

❑ Candidate USPA Membership expiration date___________

❑ Full Course

❑ Manufacturer Rating Conversion (See Section 1.F.2, 3, 4)

❑ Foreign Tandem Instructor Rating Conversion (See Section 

1.F.5)