What are the requirements for a USPA B-license in skydiving?

To earn your USPA B-license, you must complete: 50 total jumps, a canopy skills course ($200-300 plus jump tickets), water training course, 10 landings within 33 feet of target (half the A-license requirement), 10 formation jumps with at least 5 having 3 or more people, and pass the USPA online exam.

How long does it take to get a B-license after A-license?

Most skydivers complete their B-license in 4-6 months after earning their A-license, jumping 4-7 times per month. With 25+ jumps minimum after A-license, strategic planning is essential to complete all requirements efficiently.

What's the biggest mistake A-license holders make when working toward B-license?

The biggest mistake is making 'fun jumps' without any specific skill-building objectives. Without the AFF progression card structure, many jumpers drift without a plan, taking 12+ months instead of 4-6 months to complete their B-license.

Do I need to complete a canopy course for my B-license?

Yes, a canopy skills course is required for your B-license. These courses typically cost $200-300 for classroom instruction plus jump tickets (usually 5+ jumps required). Book early as courses fill up months in advance, especially at smaller dropzones.

How many formation jumps do I need for my B-license?

You need 10 total formation jumps for your B-license, with at least 5 of those jumps having 3 or more people in the formation. Start simple with 2-way jumps focusing on fall rate adjustment, docking, and proximity flying before attempting larger formations.

How do I get 10 accuracy landings within 33 feet for my B-license?

The secret to achieving 10 accuracy landings within 33 feet is to identify your target before EVERY jump, not just when you're working on accuracy. With 25+ jumps after A-license, you need accuracy on roughly 40% of your jumps. Track your progress consistently in your logbook and practice in varying wind conditions.

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.

Download the Complete Checklist ->

Your 3-Step Path to a USPA B-License

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 or more 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 seven requirements:

1. 50 Total Jumps

You have 25 or more jumps remaining after your A-license to complete the other requirements.

2. 30 Minutes of Controlled Freefall Time

Accumulated across your jump log. Most skydivers complete this naturally as they build jump numbers.

3. Canopy Proficiency Card

Complete all requirements listed on the USPA B-License Canopy Proficiency Card. Requires sign-off from a USPA S&TA or Examiner.

4. Water Training

Live water-landing training with full equipment per the Skydiver's Information Manual. May be offered standalone or bundled with canopy training.

5. 10 Accuracy Landings

Land within 33 feet (10 meters) of target center on 10 jumps. Half the distance of your A-license requirement.

6. 10 Formation Jumps

RW or freefly. At least 5 must include 3 or more participants in the formation.

7. USPA B-License Exam

Online exam covering BSRs, equipment, emergency procedures, and canopy flight. Must be administered by a current USPA Instructor, S&TA, Examiner, Judge, or board member.

Realistic timeline: at 4-7 jumps per month, most skydivers complete their B-license in 4-6 months after their A-license.

Get the Complete B-License Roadmap

A 7-page strategic guide to completing your B-license in 4-6 months, including a progress tracking checklist for every requirement.

Requirement-by-requirement strategy and timing
The most common mistakes that slow progression
Complete progress checklist with date and jump number tracking
Budget planning and realistic cost breakdown

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Created by Experienced USPA Examiners

Christina Arango

USPA Coach Examiner
AFF Instructor
Jumping since 2001

Juan Arango

USPA Tandem Examiner
AFF Instructor · FAA Senior Rigger
Jumping since 2001