A-License Resources
AFF Categories A Through H: Your Path to an A-License
Reviewed by Christina Arango, USPA Coach Examiner and AFF Instructor. Updated October 2026.
AFF is taught in eight levels, called Categories A through H. Each one builds on the last, from your first jump to your A-license. Pick the category you're working on to read the material, watch the videos, and take the quiz.
Whether your next jump is tomorrow or you're coming back after a break, start here.
Just Getting Started?
Download our free AFF Preparedness Guide to know what to expect before you book your first jump.
AFF Categories
Finish each category before moving to the next. The skills stack.
Category A
Awareness
Your first jump. Learn your gear, the arched body position, pull priorities, landing priorities, and the PLF, with two instructors holding on.
Start Category A
Category B
Better Body Position
Refine your arch, hold a heading, and do your practice touches. Learn the parachute flight cycle and how to handle malfunctions.
Start Category B
Category C
Control Your Movement
Your release dive. Fly on your own in freefall, know when to pull if you feel out of control, and learn about wing loading and turbulence.
Start Category C
Category D
Directional Control
Your first solo exit. Freefall turns with Start-Coast-Stop, rear-riser steering, and your first gear checks.
Start Category D
Category E
Experience Instability
Get unstable on purpose with barrel rolls and loops, recover, and qualify for freefall self-supervision.
Start Category E
Category F
Flat Tracking
Learn to track away from other jumpers, fly braked turns and flares, and make your first hop n' pop.
Start Category F
Category G
Group Skills
Your coached jumps. Floater exits, docking, matching fall rate, and breakoff.
Start Category G
Category H
Hone Your Skills
Dive to dock, low-turn recovery, and the equipment and aircraft knowledge you need before your A-license.
Start Category H
After AFF
From Jump 8 to Your A-License
You're cleared for solo freefall. Here's what comes next, from jump 8 to jump 25 and your A-license exam.
See what's nextReady for Your A-License Exam?
Finished your jumps and ready to test? Our exam prep covers the written, oral, and practical exams.
Go to Exam PrepWant Every Category in One Place?
The AFF Ebook covers Categories A through E, with quizzes built in, from two USPA Examiners. Instant digital download.
Get the AFF EbookAlready Have Your A-License?
Our B-License Study Guide covers what comes next: night jumps, water training, canopy proficiency, and more.
See the B-License Study GuideFrequently Asked Questions
What are the AFF levels?
AFF levels are the stages of Accelerated Freefall training. USPA calls them Categories A through H. Each category has its own skills and jumps, and you finish one before moving to the next.
How many jumps do I need for an A-License?
You need 25 freefall jumps, a completed A-License Progression Card, and passing scores on the written, oral, and practical exams. The full requirements are on our USPA License Requirements page.
How long does it take to earn an A-License?
Most skydivers earn their A-License within 3 to 6 months of starting training. Weather, budget, and how often you can jump make the biggest difference.
Do I have to complete the categories in order?
Yes. Each category builds on the skills from the one before it, so you finish one before moving to the next.
What if I haven't jumped in a while?
If it has been more than 30 days since your last jump as a student, expect a refresher jump with an instructor. Dropzone policies vary, so call ahead before you travel.
Questions About Your Training?
Scheduling your next jump or stuck on a concept? Reach out.
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