How old do I and my horse or pony have to be, and how tall is a pony?

Question

Accepted Answer

Rider age: you may enter Official competitions from the start of the calendar year you turn 10 when riding horses, or from the start of the calendar year you turn 8 when riding ponies. You must be a Junior or Senior financial member of EA in the appropriate category. Horse or pony age: at least 3 years old (by natural birthday) to hold a Dressage Card / Competitor Licence. For FEI Pony and Junior tests the minimum is 6; for FEI Small Tour tests (Prix St Georges, Young Rider, Intermediate I) it is 7; for Medium and Big Tour tests it is 8. Height: a horse must exceed 149 cm with shoes or 148 cm without. A pony must not exceed 149 cm with shoes or 148 cm without. Ponies must comply with the EA Measuring Rules to compete at State Championships, National Championships, all Young Pony classes and events where CDIs are held. Stallions: colts and stallions must not be ridden by riders under 18, and their handlers must be 18 or older. Source: EA National Dressage Rules 1 January 2026, rules 4.8.3.3 to 4.8.4.2.