USPA Tandem Instructor Rating Course

May 5–9, 2027 | iSkydive DC | Midland, Virginia

Vertical Training Systems (VTS) will conduct a five-day USPA Tandem Instructor Rating Course designed to prepare experienced skydivers for professional tandem instruction.

The course includes classroom instruction, equipment familiarization, practical training, tandem procedures, emergency procedures, and required evaluation jumps under the supervision of an authorized Tandem Instructor Examiner.

Prerequisites

Candidates must meet the following requirements:

500 logged skydives
Minimum three years in the sport
Current USPA D License
USPA Coach Rating or accepted equivalent
Current FAA or DOT medical certification

All prerequisites must be completed before the course begins, with the sole exception of the Coach Rating requirement. Candidates who have not completed the Coach Rating requirement must coordinate their eligibility and completion arrangements with VTS in advance.

Candidates must provide documentation verifying their qualifications.

Course Curriculum

Training includes:

Tandem instructor responsibilities and passenger safety
Tandem equipment inspection and operation
Passenger briefing, fitting, and preparation
Aircraft procedures, exits, freefall, and deployment
Canopy flight, landing, and passenger management
Emergency procedures and abnormal situations
Required practical training and evaluation jumps
USPA and applicable manufacturer operating requirements

Course Fees and Estimated Total Cost

The following breakdown represents the anticipated cost of completing the full course.

Expense
Course fee	$800
Tandem rig rental — 10 × $60	$600
Packing — 10 × $15	$150
Jump slots — 20 × $30	$600
Total estimated course cost	$2,150

The final amount will be confirmed before registration opens.

Additional training, jumps, or evaluations beyond the planned course requirements may result in additional expenses.

Course Completion

Candidates must successfully complete all required academic instruction, practical training, examinations, and evaluation jumps to qualify for the applicable Tandem Instructor rating.

Successful completion is based on demonstrated proficiency and compliance with USPA and applicable manufacturer requirements. Attendance alone does not guarantee a rating.

Registration and Scheduling

Dates: May 5–9, 2027
Location: iSkydive DC, Midland, Virginia
Registration opens: January 1, 2027

Advance registration is required. Candidates will receive instructions regarding documentation, equipment, preparation, and reporting times before the course.

All jumping activities are subject to weather, aircraft availability, equipment readiness, and drop zone operational approval.

UPT & USPA Tandem Instructor Rating Course