All dressage officials – judges and technical delegates – are licensed through United States Equestrian Federation, the national governing body. Only licensed officials in good standing may officiate at USEF licensed / USDF recognized competitions. The most current and complete list of USEF Licensed Officials can be found on the USEF Website.

1. What types of licensed officials are required for USEF licensed / USDF recognized competitions? Where can I find them listed?
2. How do I become a USEF- licensed dressage judge?
3. How do I become a USEF licensed sport horse judge?
4. How do I become a Technical Delegate?
5. Are there any grants available for those working to become licensed?

What types of licensed officials are required for USEF licensed / USDF recognized competitions? Where can I find them listed?

USEF Licensed Judges, Dressage Sport Horse Breeding (DSHB) Judges, and Dressage Technical Delegates are licensed through USEF.  Only current licensed officials may officiate at USEF-licensed/USDF-recognized competitions, and Regular and Local Competitions, offering “open” Dressage classes. For more information refer to the USEF rule book available at www.usef.org

FEI Officials (Judges and Stewards) are required at all International (FEI) Dressage competitions and may officiate at USEF licensed/USDF-recognized competitions. Depending on the type of Competition, the requirements for number and selections of the Ground Jury (judges) will vary. More information can be found in the FEI Rules for Dressage event available on the FEI Web site

FEI Judges are required at all International (FEI) Dressage competitions and may officiate at USEF licensed/USDF-recognized competitions. Depending on the type of Competition, the requirements for number and selections of the Ground Jury (judges) will vary. More information can be found in the FEI Rules for Dressage event available on the FEI Web site

Search Current USDF Members who are FEI Licensed Dressage Officials

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How do I become a USEF- licensed dressage judge?

To become a USEF-licensed dressage judge, you must first complete and graduate from the USDF L Education Program with distinction.  Review the current edition of the US Equestrian Licensed Officials Policy & Procedures for complete eligibility requirements.

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How do I become and DSHB Judge?

USEF-licensed DSHB Judge  applicants must meet the eligibility requirements, which includes attending USDF Sport Horse Seminars.  Review the current edition of the US Equestrian Licensed Officials Policy & Procedures for complete eligibility requirements.

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How do I become a Technical Delegate?

To become a USEF-licensed Dressage Technical Delegate (TD), you must attend a USDF Apprentice Technical Delegate Clinic, Review the current edition of the US Equestrian Licensed Officials Policy & Procedures for complete eligibility requirements.

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Are there any grants available for those working to become licensed?

Both USEF and The Dressage Foundation offer funding and great opportunities.  Visit their websites for more information.

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For more information contact loeducation@usdf.org.