Joining a Film Union · SAG-AFTRA
Stunt performer: how to join SAG-AFTRA
Stunt performers do the falls, fights, fire, and driving the insurance won't let the cast do. It's SAG-AFTRA work built on documented skill and trust: coordinators hire people they've seen perform safely, so the way in is training, reps on low-budget action, and relationships with stunt coordinators.
Good to know
There is no separate stunt union: stunt performers and stunt coordinators carry the same SAG-AFTRA card actors do. Both eligibility and hiring come from documented, safe work, so the real currency is a reel of clean reps and a coordinator who has seen you perform in person.
Roles in this craft
The jobs that make up this craft, each with its own page on pay, the day-to-day, and how to break in.
How to join, step by step
Know your union
- Stunt performers and coordinators are SAG-AFTRA, the same card actors carry.
- There is no separate stunt union: eligibility follows the same performer contracts.
Train and specialize
- Fights, fire, falls, wire, and driving are separate disciplines: build documented skill in the ones you will sell.
- A safe, well-shot stunt reel is your resume.
Get reps under a coordinator
- Low-budget and non-union action is where you get seen and build trust with stunt coordinators.
- Coordinators hire people they have watched perform safely: relationships are the job.
Earn eligibility and join
- A covered stunt booking, or three covered background days, makes you eligible.
- Document every job and keep a spotless safety record: it is what keeps you hired.
What you’ll need
- Proof of a principal day OR three covered background days (vouchers, contracts, pay stubs)
- Government ID and work eligibility documents
- Initiation funds: currently $3,121 national (payment plans exist)
- First semiannual dues, due at joining
Find your local
SAG-AFTRA membership runs through a local for your market. Look up the one that covers where you work on the union’s site.