You Just Earned Your A-License. Now What?
The progression card disappears after your A-License. Here's your complete guide to all 5 requirements—what they are, how to approach them strategically, and how to complete your B-License in 4-6 months.
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After earning your A-License, many skydivers face a challenge they don't anticipate: the structure disappears.
Your AFF progression card gave you clear objectives for every category. You knew exactly what skills to demonstrate and what came next. After your A-License? That clarity vanishes.
Many jumpers drift without a plan, making "fun jumps" that don't build toward anything specific—taking 12+ months to complete requirements that could be done in 4-6 months with a strategic approach.
The B-License Requirements
To earn your B-License, you must complete:
You have 25+ jumps after your A-License to complete the remaining requirements.
Classroom instruction plus practical jumps (typically 5+). Cost: ~$200-300 plus jump tickets.
Required safety training. May be offered standalone or bundled with canopy courses.
Land within 33 feet (10 meters) of target—half the distance of your A-License requirement.
At least 5 must include 3 or more people in the formation.
Online multiple-choice exam covering BSRs, equipment, emergency procedures, and canopy flight.
Realistic Timeline: At 4-7 jumps per month, most skydivers complete their B-License in 4-6 months.
Your Strategic Approach
The difference between jumpers who complete their B-License in 4-6 months versus those who take 12+ months? Intentionality.
Here's how to approach your requirements strategically:
Priority #1: Book Your Canopy Course Early
Don't wait. Canopy courses fill up months in advance, especially at smaller dropzones. Start researching and booking during your A-License progression, not after.
Priority #2: Practice Accuracy from Jump 26 Onward
You need accuracy on roughly 40% of your remaining jumps. The secret? Identify your target before EVERY jump—not just when you're "working on accuracy." Make it a habit from day one.
Priority #3: Build Formation Experience Throughout
Start with simple 2-way jumps and build confidence before attempting larger formations. Be proactive about finding jump partners and asking instructors for group opportunities.
Priority #4: Track Everything
Know which jumps count toward which requirements. Note formation sizes in your logbook immediately after each jump. Track your accuracy distances consistently.
Priority #5: Balance Fun with Progression
Don't eliminate fun jumps—they're important for maintaining your love of the sport. Just be intentional about when you're building skills versus purely enjoying the ride.
Your 3-Step Path to a USPA B-License
Get the Complete B-License Roadmap
Want the detailed breakdown of each requirement, common mistakes to avoid, and a complete tracking checklist?
Download our free B-License Progression Guide with:
- Requirement-by-Requirement Strategy - When to schedule courses, how to find formation partners, accuracy training systems
- 6 Common Mistakes to Avoid - Don't sabotage your progression (like waiting until jump 49 to book your canopy course)
- Complete Progress Checklist - Track all 10 accuracy landings, all 10 formation jumps, and course completions
- Budget Planning - Realistic cost breakdown so you can plan ahead
- Timeline Worksheet - Map out your 4-6 month progression plan
7-page PDF guide • Instant download • No credit card required
Created By Experienced USPA Examiners
Skydiving since 2001
Skydiving since 2001
We've trained hundreds of skydivers from first jump to advanced licenses. This roadmap gives you the structure that successful skydivers use to progress efficiently.