Key Takeaways
In the United States, you must be 18 years old to skydive at a USPA-member dropzone; parental consent does not change the minimum age requirement. There is no maximum age for skydiving: your health, mobility, ability to follow instructions, and comfort in the harness matter most. If you’re under 18, indoor skydiving is a great way to experience the feeling of freefall while you count down to the day you can make your first jump from an airplane. Once you’re 18, have valid government-issued photo ID, and meet the basic eligibility requirements, you’re ready to experience the unforgettable thrill of skydiving over Central Oregon.
How old do you have to be to skydive? The answer is simple! In the United States, you must be at least 18 years old to make a skydive, even if you have parental consent. You also need a valid government-issued photo ID to verify your age. On the other end of the spectrum, there is no official maximum age for skydiving. As long as you meet the basic health, mobility, and safety requirements, you may be able to jump well into your golden years.
Whether you’re counting down the days to your 18th birthday or planning to finally cross skydiving off your bucket list, here’s everything you need to know about skydiving and age limits!
What Is the Minimum Skydiving Age?
How old to skydive in the US? The skydiving age limit in America is 18 years old at all USPA Group Member dropzones, including Skydive Bend. This applies to tandem skydives as well as those learning to get their solo skydiving license.
Anywhere you go for a skydive, you’ll be asked to show a valid government-issued photo ID when you check in. Proving your age isn’t just a company policy, it’s tied to legal waivers, equipment manufacturer requirements, and safety standards across the industry.
Can You Skydive Under 18 With Parental Consent?
Can you skydive at 13 or 16 in the US with parental consent? We’re sorry to be the bearers of bummer news … but even if your parents or guardians give permission, you cannot skydive at a USPA Group Member dropzone in the United States before your 18th birthday.
While many adventure activities or lifetime commitments (like tattoos!) allow minors with a parent’s signature, skydiving is different because of the legal waivers involved, equipment requirements, and safety standards.
The good news? Your 18th birthday can become the day you finally take that leap. A birthday skydive is the type of celebration you’ll remember for the rest of your life!
Are There Any Exceptions to the Skydiving Age Limit?
For most people, the answer is no. While you may occasionally hear about specialized programs or independent operations outside the USPA system, they are not the norm.
That being said … there are times where a Make-A-Wish recipient wants to skydive. Manufacturers and dropzones are often able to make this exception with a waiver through the USPA. These jumps are incredibly special for everyone involved.
Not 18 Yet? You Can Still Experience the Feeling of Flight
If you’re too young for an outdoor skydive, indoor skydiving is a fun way to experience the sensation of freefall in a wind tunnel. Indoor skydiving facilities are highly controlled and generally let people fly as young as 3 years old!
Although it’s not the same as jumping from an airplane over Central Oregon, it can be an exciting introduction while you wait for your 18th birthday! Plus, it’s a great tool for practicing the perfect skydiving body position when the time to jump finally comes.
Is There a Maximum Age for Skydiving?
Nope! So, can a 70 year old go skydiving? Absolutely, if they’re healthy enough to do so. Many first-time skydivers are in their 60s, 70s, and well beyond!
Age by itself isn’t what determines whether you can jump. Your instructor and the dropzone will consider factors such as:
- Your overall health
- Your mobility and ability to safely enter the plane and lift your legs for landing
- Whether you’re comfortable wearing the tandem harness
- Your ability to listen to directions
If you have concerns about a medical condition, speak with your doctor before booking. Many people with diagnoses such as diabetes or high blood pressure skydive, but it’s always best to get the greenlight from your doc.
Who Is Not Allowed to Skydive?
Most healthy adults can enjoy a tandem skydive, but some people may need to wait or may not be eligible. You may not be able to skydive if you:
- Cannot provide valid government-issued photo ID
- Are pregnant
- Are under the influence of alcohol or drugs – no alcohol within an eight hour window before jumping
- Have certain medical or physical conditions, such as a recent surgery
- Exceed the dropzone’s weight limit – ours is 250 pounds, with a $1 surcharge per pound over 200 pounds
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, reach out before booking! It’s always better to ask questions ahead of time so you know exactly what to expect and feel confident on your big jump day!
Do Skydiving Age Limits Vary by Country?
Yes, they do! Some countries allow younger jumpers with parental consent or have different regulations for tandem skydiving. However, if you’re skydiving in the United States, the standard at USPA Group Member dropzones is straightforward: you must be 18 years old.
Your Adventure Starts in Central Oregon!
At Skydive Bend, you’ll climb above the high desert before stepping out (yes, it’s just like taking one big step!) into incredible views of the Cascade Mountains, rolling hills, and the wide-open skies that make Central Oregon one of the country’s most spectacular places to experience a skydive!
If you’re 18 or older, have a valid government-issued photo ID, and meet the basic eligibility requirements, you’re ready to book your tandem skydive.
And if you’re still counting down the days until your 18th birthday, don’t worry – your adventure is closer than you think! When that day arrives, we’ll be ready to help you celebrate with a jump you’ll never forget. If you have any other first-time skydiving questions, check out our FAQ page!
