The US Hawks Rating System defines 7 hang gliding ratings:
- Hang Glider Pilot (HGP) - A Self-Declarative Rating
- Hawk 0 - Equivalent to USHPA's Hang 0
- Hawk 1 - Equivalent to USHPA's Hang 1
- Hawk 2 - Equivalent to USHPA's Hang 2
- Hawk 3 - Equivalent to USHPA's Hang 3
- Hawk 4 - Equivalent to USHPA's Hang 4
- Hawk 5 - Equivalent to USHPA's Hang 5
Pilots who can demonstrate that they hold any of the listed USHPA ratings will be granted the equivalent US Hawks Rating. US Hawks ratings follow the precedent set by the FAA - namely that they are good for life. The US Hawks may impose flight currency and other requirements to fly (as the FAA does), but the rating itself is good for life unless removed for cause.
As of August 15th, 2015, the US Hawks establishes a "Transitional Rating System" that honors any hang gliding rating (H0-H5) that was ever issued by USHPA (or USHGA) and has not been revoked for cause. Any ratings that have been revoked or removed by USHPA shall be reviewed by the US Hawks Board and approved by a 2/3 majority of the current Board Members before an equivalent US Hawks rating can be issued.
As of August 15th, 2015, the US Hawks also establishes a permanent hang gliding rating of Hang Gliding Pilot (HGP) which shall be self assigned by each pilot who feels they are deserving of that rating.
As of August 15th, 2015, the US Hawks also establishes that all US Hawks ratings shall follow the FAA model of being good for life unless otherwise revoked for cause. There shall be no fee for any member to remain a rated member of the US Hawks.
As of August 15th, 2015, the US Hawks also establishes that ratings shall be granted upon presentation of reasonable proof to any Board member that the equivalent USHPA rating exists or existed. If there is any question about validity of a rating by the Board member, then the rating shall require the 2/3 majority vote of the existing Board members.