Des Moines Skydivers

How much does it cost to learn to skydive?

You can expect it to be approximately $2,500-$3,000 to get your A-license (your first license). This is spread out over the time it takes you to complete your training and not all paid at one once.

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Do I need to bring or purchase anything?

We have everything you will need including all equipment and paperwork. Just bring your brain and the desire to have fun and learn to skydive!

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How long does it take to get my skydiving license?

There are a lot of variables that affect the time it takes to get your license. The two that matter the most is weather (which we can't control) and you being at the dropzone ready to jump (which YOU can control). With good weather and a SOLID time commitment, it's possible to get your license in 4 weeks. It's typically 8-12 weeks.

What steps are required to get licensed?

Please see our "How it Works" section.  It outlines the steps you need to do to get licensed!

How much does gear cost?

Much like purchasing a car, the pricing is affected by whether you purchase new or used and a base model vs one that's fully loaded.  You can get a good used parachute system for $3-5k and can spend twice that on a new one. You will also need an altimeter, goggles and/or helmet and jumpsuit(s). Of course it all doesn't have to be purchased at once and can be acquired over time.

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When will I need to purchase my own gear?
Throughout the AFF section of your training program, all equipment is provided for you and is included in the price of your AFF jumps. This includes the parachute system, helmet and jumpsuit. After you have completed the AFF section, rig rentals are required if you do not have your own. While it is an option to continue renting, it can get costly. Rig rentals are also prioritized to students and not licensed jumpers. We encourage students to have their own gear by the time you get your A-license or shortly thereafter. Any of your instructors at the dropzone can assist with proper gear selection to make sure you get something that is right for you.

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How often do I need to jump?

Staying "current" as we call it, means to jump regularly so that you retain your muscle memory and skillset. This is vital when you are learning to skydive. Being at the dropzone ready to jump is critical to your success. The longer you wait between jumps, the more difficult it is to move on to the next training jump. Sometimes jumps need to be repeated because of this and will end up costing you more money. With all that being said, we recommend waiting no longer than 21 days between jumps. It's often encouraged to get as many jumps done as possible in one weekend. You progress much faster, retain more information which means better success!

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Is there an age requirement or weight limit?

Yes. You must be at least 18 years old and 220 lbs or less.

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Why should I choose Des Moines Skydivers for my training?

We know you have a choice when it comes to your skydive training. Our training instructors have thousands of jumps and decades of experience training new skydivers. We are dedicated to providing a safe, fun and informative environment. We are also a United States Parachute Association (USPA) group member drop zone. What does this mean? This means that our dropzone has pledged to abide by the basic safety requirements for student and advanced skydivers set forth by the USPA. The USPA website has A LOT of great information regarding AFF training.  Please feel free to research at www.uspa.org

Can I drink alcohol or do drugs before I skydive?

Per USPA's Skydivers Information Manual section 2-1 : F states:

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No person may make a parachute jump, or attempt to make a jump, if that person is or appears to be under the influence of either;

      a. alcohol.

      b. any drug that affects that person’s faculties in any way contrary to safety.

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What is the first step I need to do if I want to learn to skydive solo?

Take the FJC (First Jump Course or Ground School). Click HERE to see scheduled FJC's. If no times are available, that means we don't have one scheduled.  We usually offer classes once a month (or more depending on demand). We schedule courses as they are needed so please fill out the form below and our training coordinator will add you to our list and you will be contacted when we schedule our next FJC.  If you don't hear from us right away, please be patient. Sometimes it can take a couple weeks to build the list to conduct an FJC.