In the US, most drop zones heavily regulate the age of skydivers, meaning you will rarely find an operator who will offer tandem skydiving to an individual under 18 years of age. However, there are still a few drop zones and operators who will allow teens between the age of 16-18 to tandem jump with their parents' consent. Below are a few things to keep in mind if you plan to allow your underage teen to skydive. 

Make Sure Either Both Parents Are Present Or You Have a Notarized Consent Form From the Second Parent

Unlike other issues of consent, skydiving usually requires consent from both parents or guardians. Additionally, this consent usually has to be given in person. This means that you cannot simply fill out a consent form and send it with your teen. You will have to go with your teen for their jump, and you may have to undergo some instruction to make sure you fully understand the risks of skydiving before you can give consent. If both parents or guardians are not present, you will likely need a notarized letter from the absent parent or guardian that authorizes you to give consent for your child. 

Bring Photo Identification as Well as Proof of Guardianship  

Your child will need photo identification. Some drop zones may only accept state issued IDs such as driver's permits. However, some drop zones may accept school IDs as well. In addition to a photo ID, your teen will need proof of your guardianship and their age. This may be satisfied by a birth certificate as well as any court custody orders in place if guardianship has changed since birth. 

Consider Taking Your Teen In a Wind Tunnel Before Pursuing Skydiving 

Some instructors may be more willing to take a teen who is serious about learning to skydive rather than a teen who simply wants to try it once for the adrenaline rush. Before signing up for a tandem skydiving lesson, consider taking your teen for practice in a wind tunnel to make sure they are ready for the experience and serious about pursuing skydiving. For many teens, this may be enough of a thrill to hold them over until they are 18, and some teens may decide that they do not enjoy the experience after being in a wind tunnel. 

If you find a drop zone and an instructor willing to take your teen skydiving, you should make sure you are prepared with the proper documents and experience. 

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