As a USDF Certified Instructor/Trainer or Associate Instructor, and member in good standing of the United States Dressage Federation (USDF), I acknowledge my obligation to uphold the highest standards of horsemanship both at home and when in the public eye.

As a horseman, I place my rider’s safety and horse’s welfare above all else.

At competitions, whether participating as a trainer, coach or as a competitor, I will know and comply with all rules of the USDF/USEF, and when applicable, the FEI, and will ensure that my students know and comply by these rules as well.

As a USDF Certified Instructor/Trainer or Associate Instructor, I acknowledge the importance of continuing my own education in order that I may pass this knowledge to my students.

I understand that as a USDF member and USDF Certified Instructor/Trainer or Associate Instructor, I serve as a representative of my sport, the USDF, and the USDF Instructor Certification Program. As a USDF Certified Instructor/Trainer or Associate Instructor, I will serve as a positive example through my conduct, dress, and behavior by maintaining a professional demeanor.

I further understand that any USDF member suspended by USEF will be considered a USDF member not in good standing during the period of suspension. During this period, such person will be ineligible to participate in USDF programs, including having his/her name removed from the list of Associate/Certified Instructors, Instructor Workshop Faculty and Instructor Certification Examiners.

I acknowledge my membership in this professional community and my responsibility to demonstrate respect for my fellow professionals at all times.

The USDF Professional Development Assessment and Certification program is meant to be a thorough evaluation and examination of the candidate's expertise in the skills relevant to success in the dressage teaching and training profession. Candidates should aim to not only produce riders with winning scores, but more importantly to produce riders who can think critically about their training as well as feel the results and effects on the horse.

USDF Certified Instructors/Trainers:

• Exemplify the highest standards, protecting the interests of both students and horses as well as the traditions of classical dressage as outlined in the Pyramid of Training. Instructors are responsible for the future of dressage through the riders they influence.
• Are committed to the goal of the harmonious development of the physique and ability of the horse. They endeavor to help students make their horses calm, supple, loose, and flexible, while also confident, attentive, and keen.
• Have an in-depth understanding of the classical dressage theory and its application to "real life" scenarios. They know the purpose, the progression, and the connection between the various school movements and can recognize the difficulties and typical mistakes.
• Have analytical skills rooted in classical methodology to accurately assess a horse’s strong and weak qualities. They will be able to articulate an appropriate plan for the horse's schooling. They demonstrate a solid, balanced and effective seat and tactful aids required to produce the desired effect on a variety of horses.
• Have a broad base of teaching experience with a reservoir of practical knowledge to draw upon. They have evaluative skills needed to analyze the training requirements of horses and students. They are able to achieve a solution appropriate to the student’s level of experience and current ability. They are able to transfer their knowledge, imparting concepts and feelings in order to produce independent riders.
• Present lessons that are organized focused and logical, yet creative and flexible in order to achieve success. Their professional demeanor will demonstrate poise, confidence, and command of the arena. Their communication skills show effective use of grammar, vocabulary, voice, and diction. They establish rapport with horse and rider, demonstrating compassion and encouragement.

Pay Instructor/Trainer Test Fees

For guidelines and other important documents, see our forms & documents page.

If you have any further questions, contact the Instructor/Trainer Program Liaison at (859) 971-2277 or instructorcertification@usdf.org

As a requirement to maintain recognition or certification, each Associate Instructor/Certified Instructor must do sixteen (16) hours of continuing education. A wide range of equine related programs will be accepted for continuing education credit. Attendance at any USDF program will automatically be accepted. Other educational opportunities such as USEF Judges Clinics/Forums, lectures and mounted lessons or clinics can also be accepted, but will require advance approval.

Required hours must be submitted each year by November 30th in order to maintain current recognition or certified status.

For guidelines and other important documents, see our forms & documents page.

If you have any further questions, contact the Instructor/Trainer Program Liaison at (859) 971-2277 or instructorcertification@usdf.org.

All current USDF Certified Instructors receive the following benefits package:

• Dressage Extensions offers discounted rates on purchases made by current USDF Certified Instructors. Contact Dressage Extensions for more information.
  • Instructors who are certified at Training – First Level will received a 10% discount on purchases.
  • Instructors who are certified at Second Level and Third – Fourth Level will receive a 15% discount on purchases.
  • Instructors who are certified at FEI Level and those recognized as Honorary Instructors will receive a 20% discount on purchases.

• USDF offers a 25% discounted rate for Rider’s Market ads in the USDF Connection. To take advantage of this opportunity, please contact Danielle Titland, USDF Advertising Sales Representative, at dtitland@usdf.org. Please refer to the current Media Kit for advertising deadlines and details. Please note:
  • BEFORE DISCOUNT - Rider’s Market ads for a flat rate of $125.00 per month for a large ad and $85.00 per month for a small ad (must be consecutive months)
  • Cost includes in-house design and layout. Design can have one logo and/or one photo and up to 15 words of type, excluding contact information. One proof will be emailed to client.

As a requirement to maintain recognition or certification, each Associate Instructor/Certified Instructor must do sixteen (16) hours of continuing education. A wide range of equine related programs will be accepted for continuing education credit. Attendance at any USDF program will automatically be accepted. Other educational opportunities such as USEF Judges Clinics/Forums, lectures and mounted lessons or clinics can also be accepted, but will require advance approval.

Required hours must be submitted each year by November 30th in order to maintain current recognition or certified status.

For guidelines and other important documents, see our forms & documents page.

If you have any further questions, contact the Instructor/Trainer Program Liaison at (859) 971-2277 or instructorcertification@usdf.org.

The objectives of the development seminars are to provide education at the grassroots level and to identify those interested in further processional development.

Generally hosted by a GMO, the development seminars can be delivered via live event, in a classroom setting or virtually and are geared toward a general audience. For more information or to schedule a seminar, contact the program liaison at instructorcertification@usdf.org.