We’ve all seen the Instagram-worthy pictures and videos of thrilling skydiving experiences. It’s one of the most fun adventures you’ll ever take, and kids would love to join in.

Youths excitedly beg their parents to let them freefall, and some might even consider letting them. But how old do you have to be to legally skydive?

We’re here to answer all your questions about how old you need to be to take your first freefall.

After a few tandem skydiving falls, you might be thinking about jumping on your own. In order to solo skydive, you’ll need to get a formal license, specifically the “A” license from the United States Parachute Association (USPA).

You’ve got a few tandem freefalls under your belt, and needless to say — you’re hooked! 

When it comes to giving memorable gifts, nothing compares to giving a loved one a bucket list experience. Skydiving is one of those once-in-a-lifetime opportunities usually reserved for a celebration or milestone. Read our guide to skydiving gift certificates.

As you’re planning your first skydive, you’re probably wondering how much time you’ll need to set aside for your big jump.

Taking a “tandem” skydive means that you’ll be strapped to a certified tandem jump instructor when you go up in the plane and jump out. Your jump instructor will be the one literally pulling the ropes so that you can go along for the ride and enjoy the thrill.

How long will your skydiving training take? When it comes time to do it, how long will you be in the airplane before it’s go-time? Once you take the leap, how long will you be in freefall— and how fast will you drop? 

Generally speaking, you can expect a skydive to take 2 - 4 hours from start to finish, beginning when you arrive at a dropzone.

The truth is, the answers to these big questions aren’t always the same. There are a few factors that’ll influence how long your skydive will last. 

In this post, we’ll break them down to help you plan your first freefall.