To do a tandem skydive or start skydiving instruction in the United States, you travel to your local drop zone, sign a legal disclaimer of liability, pay, jump, and then tip your tandem instructor (please!). Because a waiver is required, you must be at least 18 years old to jump. However, many instructors will let younger people join if they are careful not to put themselves or others at risk. In addition, some states allow minors as young as 15 to sign waivers on behalf of an adult guardian. The decision to let someone else take care of you during a freefall is a big one that should only be made after consulting with a parent or guardian. There are many dangers associated with jumping out of airplanes, including experiencing severe G-forces, going too high, too low, or off course, landing in dangerous areas such as rivers or buildings, and being unable to stop yourself from rolling over during a crash-landing. People often want to know how young you can be allowed to be when you jump. The answer to this question depends on what state you live in. Some states allow anyone age 16 or older to sign a waiver, while others require you to be at least 18.