What gets a horse and rider eliminated in a test?

Among the causes in the rules:

• Resistance: any resistance that prevents the test continuing for more than 20 seconds (including before entering the arena and in the arena surrounds). Resistance that endangers the rider, horse, judges or public leads to elimination for safety reasons earlier than 20 seconds. There is no appeal.
• Leaving the arena with all four feet during a test (leaving after the final halt and salute does not entail elimination).
• Third error of course at EA levels up to Advanced.
• Marked lameness: the Judge at C informs you that you are eliminated, with no appeal. The horse cannot compete again that day unless a veterinarian approved by the Organising Committee deems it fit in writing.
• Fresh blood on the horse during the test, or in the mouth or spur area at the end of the test.
• Not having a gear check after a test, or using dress, saddlery or equipment that is not permitted.
• Failing to enter the arena within a further 45 seconds after the first 45 seconds following the bell.
• Riding out of order in the draw without approval from the Organising Committee or C judge.

Source: EA National Dressage Rules 1 January 2026, rules 1.4, 3.10, 3.17, 3.18, 4.2, 4.4 and 5.1.