Learning to skydive is a thrilling personal challenge and a serious commitment, one that leads to a lifetime of adventure. A question we hear often is, “How much does it cost to become a skydiver?” It’s a valid concern, as the journey to earning your license is an investment of both time and money.
At Skydive Elsinore, our drop zone (DZ) features a large, flat landing area that’s ideal for both students and experienced jumpers, and we believe in a transparent and structured approach to training, so you can budget with confidence. This blog will break down the full cost of earning your A-License with our program and provide tips on how to make it more affordable.
Overview of the AFF Program: Your Path to Solo Skydiving
Your path to becoming a licensed skydiver begins with the Accelerated Freefall (AFF) program, the most comprehensive and advanced method for learning to jump solo, and one that is endorsed by the United States Parachute Association (USPA). This program is designed to build your skills progressively through a series of supervised and solo jumps, ultimately leading you to earn your USPA A-License.
At Skydive Elsinore, the AFF course has two phases:
- Phase 1: Eight supervised jumps with USPA-certified instructors, where you master essential safety and freefall skills.
- Phase 2: Solo jumps and coached group exercises that prepare you for your A-License.
You’ll start with a 6–8 hour ground school covering body position, equipment use, safety procedures, and emergency protocols. In most cases, you’ll make your first jump the same day as your training.
Full Breakdown of AFF Training Costs at Skydive Elsinore
When you train with us, you’ll find our pricing is clear and all-inclusive, with no hidden fees for gear rental or other necessary items. Here is a full breakdown of the costs to earn your A-License, based on the USPA’s minimum requirements of 25 jumps.
| Training Item | Cost |
| Level 1 – First Jump Course | $349.00 |
| USPA Membership | $98.00 |
| Levels 2–3 | $259.00 each |
| Levels 4–8 | $249.00 each |
| Simulated Emergency Exit | $129.00 |
| Solo Jumps (x11) | $85.00 each |
| Coach Jumps (x4) | $169.00 each |
| A-License Check Dive | $199.00 |
| Packing Class | $100.00 |
| USPA License Fee | $43.00 |
| Total | $4,292.00 |
| Discount Package | $4,099.00 (Save $193 by paying upfront) |
This total cost includes all required gear rentals, ensuring you can focus on your training without worrying about unexpected equipment fees.
What’s Included in the Cost?
Our transparent pricing is designed to give you peace of mind. The cost of our program includes:
- Parachute System Rental: All gear is included for the 25 jumps required to earn your license.
- Expert Instruction: Training from USPA-certified AFF instructors.
- Ground School: A comprehensive 6-8 hour ground school session that covers essential safety procedures and skills.
- Documentation: Your First Jump Certificate, logbook, and detailed coaching feedback after each jump.
- Safety Features: Radio-assisted landings during your early jumps to provide real-time guidance.
- Final Certifications: A packing class and A-License check dive to ensure you have all the necessary skills.
Why Transparent Pricing Matters
When comparing skydiving training programs, it is important to look at the total cost, not just the price of a single jump. Some dropzones may advertise low rates but then add extra charges for gear rental, coaching, or exams.
At Skydive Elsinore, we offer a straightforward, all-inclusive approach. Our clear pricing ensures you know exactly what to expect from the beginning, so you can budget confidently for your training. As we state on our website, “No hidden fees. All jumps prior to your A-License include parachute equipment.”
Tips to Make Skydiving Training More Affordable
While the total cost of a skydiving license is a significant investment, there are ways to manage your budget effectively.
- Take Advantage of the Discount Package: Our discount package offers a savings of $193 when you pay upfront, providing the best value.
- Budget Per Jump: If paying for the full package at once isn’t feasible, you can budget by paying for each jump as you go. This allows you to spread the cost over several months.
- Stay Consistent: To avoid extra costs, it’s important to train without long gaps. USPA regulations require recurrency training if a certain period of time passes between jumps, which costs extra.
- Progress Steadily: Repeating a level will incur an additional jump fee, so a focused approach to training can save you money in the long run.
What Else to Factor into Your Budget
In addition to the training costs, remember to budget for other potential expenses, such as:
- Travel: Consider the cost of travel to and from Skydive Elsinore, especially if you are coming from the Los Angeles or San Diego metropolitan areas.
- Meals: Training days can be long, so you may need to factor in the cost of food and drinks while at the dropzone.
- Optional Gear: While all gear is included in our program, you may eventually want to purchase your own equipment, such as a helmet, altimeter, or jumpsuit.
Why the Investment Is Worth It
Earning your skydiving A-License is an investment that pays off for a lifetime. Once you are licensed, the cost of jumping drops significantly, as you only need to pay for lift tickets and gear rental (or your own gear).
Beyond the financial aspect, you will gain confidence, master a new skill, and become part of a passionate and welcoming community. Skydive Elsinore is California’s #1 destination for student skydivers for a reason—we are dedicated to helping you achieve your dreams of flying solo.
Plan Smart, Jump Confidently
Learning to skydive is a structured and achievable goal, especially when you have a clear understanding of the costs involved. With our transparent pricing and expert guidance, Skydive Elsinore makes it easy to plan and budget for your journey.
If you’re ready to take the leap, we are here to support you every step of the way, from your first jump to the moment you earn your license.
Ready to turn your dream of solo skydiving into a reality? Explore our AFF training options and start budgeting for the adventure of a lifetime. Contact Skydive Elsinore today or book your First Jump Course online.
