What is the Skydiving Age Limit in Oklahoma?

If you’re a teenager who has been dreaming of jumping out of a perfectly good airplane, you might be wondering – how old do you have to be to go skydiving? Whether you’re planning a birthday jump, a graduation celebration, or just checking off an epic bucket list goal, it’s important to know the in’s and out’s of the skydiving minimum age requirements and what to expect before committing to taking the leap of a lifetime!

How Old Do You Have to be to Skydive in Oklahoma?

Just like there is a weight limit in skydiving, there is an age restriction as well. The skydiving minimum age at Oklahoma Skydiving Center is 18 years old. This rule is set by the United States Parachute Association (USPA) and applies to all other USPA-affiliated dropzones.

This is mostly due to the risks associated with skydiving and the fact that anyone interested in participating in skydiving is required to sign a waiver before they can skydive – which requires the signature of an adult who understands and accepts the risks they are taking. Since minors cannot sign binding agreements, the minimum age is strictly enforced.

The age limit is also due to manufacturer restrictions imposed on the gear we use to perform the tandem skydives. The minimum age requirement for all US tandem skydiving gear is 18 years old.

Can You Skydive Under 18?

We’ve established that you need to be an adult to jump … but can you skydive under 18 with parental consent? Yep, no. The answer is still 18. While parents can sign waivers for many other activities, skydiving is not one of them. Even with parental approval, minors cannot skydive at a USPA dropzone … with one exception. A USPA Waiver Request Form can be submitted for anyone under the age rule for Make-A-Wish Foundation or terminally ill requests. Even still, the dropzone must get the “go ahead” from the gear manufacturer.  

Skydiving For Teens and Students

This subject has been a hot debate for many years. Skydiving was once only available for those 21 years old, and then was made available to ages 17+ in many states, and 16+ with parental consent. In 2014, the USPA removed the option for parental- or guardian-consent and made 18 the minimum age. 

We – as a community – are always looking for ways to improve our sport for all to enjoy while keeping safety at the forefront of our minds.

Can Minors Skydive Anywhere?

In the US, your best bet as a minor is to go indoor skydiving. Facilities like iFLY or any other vertical wind tunnel, offer a unique experience that simulates the freefall portion of skydiving. While it does not offer the parachute ride part of skydiving, it is a great option for younger thrill-seekers looking to feel the freedom of flying!

Other countries have different rules regarding how old you have to be to go skydiving with a parent’s consent. In Canada, Mexico, the UK, France and Australia, for example, you have to be at least 16. In Germany, you can be as young as 12, and in New Zealand there’s no minimum tandem skydiving age! Even if you are a licensed skydiver under the age of 18 years old, you still will not be issued a USPA license.

Getting Ready for Your First Skydive

If you’re counting down the days until your 18th birthday, here’s how to come most prepared:

Book Your Jump in Advance

Popular skydiving centers get booked up fast, especially during peak season in the summertime and on the weekends.

Stay Healthy & Hydrated

Skydiving can be physically demanding, so eating a good meal that gives you energy and plenty of water beforehand is the best way to prepare your body for the jump.

Wear the Right Clothes

Comfortable, weather-appropriate athletic wear and secure footwear are key to dressing for a successful skydive.

Bring Friends!

Skydiving is even more fun when you do it with a group of your besties. Plus, you get to take advantage of those fantastic group discounts!

Practice with Indoor Skydiving

Indoor Skydiving welcomes people of all ages ranging from 3 to 103. Flying in a vertical wind tunnel is a great way to expedite your flying skills and prepare your body for the real thing.

Celebrate Your Milestone!

Skydiving is an unforgettable experience and a perfect way to celebrate milestones like turning 18 years old, graduating, or just stepping out of your comfort zone. We can’t think of a more poetic way to jump into a new chapter than with a rejuvenating and inspiring leap into the unknown! Or a better way to look back on all of your student hours and relieve stress by releasing it all into the skies. Some skydiving centers even offer student discounts or group pricing – so be sure to ask when booking your jump!

The adrenaline rush, breathtaking views from 14,000 or 18,000 feet, and the incredible feeling of accomplishment make it worth every second of waiting for your special day! 

Ready to Skydive?

If you’re 18 years old (or already making plans for your big day), it’s time to make your dream of skydiving a reality! At Oklahoma Skydiving Center, we offer the best experience possible with our incredible, highly-trained and certified team to guide you through your tandem skydiving adventure.

Book your first jump today and get ready to experience the thrill of a lifetime!