Delta Upgrade Certificates Explained: GUC vs RUC & How to Choose the Right One (2025 Guide)

Illustration of Carl and his corgi Bax at an airport with Delta airplane, showing Global (GUC) and Regional (RUC) Upgrade Certificates under a purple Delta One theme for the 2025 guide.

Delta Upgrade Certificates are one of the most valuable Medallion Choice Benefits. This guide explains the key differences between Global Upgrade Certificates (GUC) and Regional Upgrade Certificates (RUC) — including who can use them, where they work, how to apply, and how to decide which is right for your travel in 2025.

Quick Look

What is a GUC

Global Upgrade Certificate for Diamond Medallions that can move you up one cabin on eligible Delta-operated and select partner international or domestic flights. View eligible routes.

What is a RUC

Regional Upgrade Certificate for Platinum and Diamond Medallions that upgrades one cabin on domestic and short-haul international routes. Check eligible regions.

Who gets them

Platinum may select RUC; Diamond may select GUC, RUC, or a combination as Choice Benefits.

Validity

Certificates must be flown by the end of the Medallion Year tied to your selection. For 2025 status, valid through January 31, 2026.

Delta Upgrade Certificates: GUC vs RUC Basics

Both certificate types provide one-cabin upgrades on eligible fares and flights. Space can be confirmed at booking when available, or you may be waitlisted based on Medallion priority. Certificates are not valid on Basic Economy and must be used by the expiration date tied to your Medallion Year. Official details here.

Delta Upgrade Certificates infographic (GUC vs RUC) explaining who can use each certificate, where they work, and one-cabin upgrade paths between Main, Comfort+, Premium Select, and Delta One cabins.
Delta Upgrade Certificates (2025): GUC vs RUC at a glance

Eligibility and Earning

  • GUC (Global Upgrade Certificate) — Diamond Medallion only via Choice Benefits.
  • RUC (Regional Upgrade Certificate) — available to Platinum and Diamond Medallion members via Choice Benefits.
  • Typical Diamond selections — 4 GUC / 8 RUC / 2 GUC + 4 RUC.
  • Validity — certificates must be flown by January 31 following the Medallion Year tied to selection (e.g., 2025 → Jan 31, 2026).

Where You Can Use Them

Check the Delta Upgrade Certificate search page for current eligible routes and partner availability.

How to Apply Certificates

Use the Upgrade Certificate portal to confirm eligibility, or contact Delta Reservations or use the Fly Delta app to apply certificates to your bookings.

Strategy — Which Should You Choose

Frequent international flyers benefit most from GUCs since they unlock Delta One and Premium Select seats. If most of your travel is domestic or within North America, RUCs provide strong value and higher confirmation odds. Compare your routes using the upgrade eligibility tool.