How to Become a Sky Diving Instructor

Few experiences are as exciting or liberating as sky diving. Many people become so hooked it becomes a passion or even a profession. If you've been sky diving for a long time, you may want to consider becoming an instructor. Anyone with experience, certification and proper training can become a sky diving instructor.

Things You'll Need

  • Certification
  • Instructor level training
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Sky dive on a regular basis and become fully certified to jump on your own. This is a major requirement when you want to become an instructor. You'll need to log a set number of hours, as well as be tested periodically to ensure that you have the proper technique.

    • 2

      Decide which aspects of sky diving you wish to become an instructor of. It's possible to become an instructor in all aspects of sky diving, but starting out small can speed the process. The four areas of instruction are harness-hold, instructor-assisted deployment, static line and tandem.

    • 3

      Study for a specific instruction rating. There are three ratings available to sky diving instructors: coach, instructor and instructor examiner.

    • 4

      Complete all of your class work courses. In addition to being able to display practical experience and expertise, you'll need to read and study all of the regulations and guidelines in place in the sport. Class sessions are typically in a group setting.

    • 5

      Be familiar with the Instructional Rating Manuals (IRMs) available at the USPA website (see Resources below). The Instructional Rating Manuals contain all of the required information needed for becoming an instructor. Note that the Instructional Rating Manual is not free, and that it is periodically updated (roughly once a year).