Equestrian Instructor Certification

Equestrian instructor certifications are not necessary to legally teach horseback riding in most states; however, such a title is advantageous to your career. Respected organizations such as the American Riding Instructor Association (ARIA) and the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) offer comprehensive certification programs that offer opportunities to learn safety, professionalism and excellent horsemanship. These programs can provide an excellent foundation for success in the equine industry.

  1. Credentials

    • An equestrian instructor certification provides you with excellent credentials. In a highly competitive industry, the ability to include on your resume that you are an ARIA- or CHA-certified horseback riding instructor can give you a significant advantage over fellow job applicants. Certification from ARIA or CHA provides the added benefit of being listed in their corresponding directory and website.

    Benefits

    • Because strong emphasis is placed on teaching safety procedures throughout both the ARIA and the CHA certification programs, most insurance companies offer a reward for your equestrian instructor certification by lowering your annual coverage rate. In addition, certification will likely provide you with an association membership in which you can receive regular, timely industry updates and information on additional educational opportunities.

    ARIA

    • According to the ARIA website article entitled "Instructor Certification," the association was established "...to recognize and certify outstanding teachers of horseback riding who instruct their students in a safe, knowledgeable and professional manner" (See References 1). Three certification levels are offered per specialty, such as hunt seat or dressage, for an equestrian instructor to achieve. The minimum requirements to apply for Level I certification are that you must have reached the age of 18 and have demonstrated a solid horsemanship foundation through video evaluation. You do not need any teaching experience for Level I certification. Level II and III certifications are cumulative and require you to teach at the previous level for a specific number of years before moving forward. Each certification level requires that you take and pass written and practical exams. Annual renewal of association certification is required.

    CHA

    • To apply for CHA instructor certification you must be 18 years of age, or 16 if applying for an assistant instructor/guide certification. For Level One certification, applicants must also be able to demonstrate a competent level of riding, horsemanship and teaching ability as demonstrated at a CHA certification clinic, held at various locations throughout the year. Certification levels can be obtained in different specialties, including English, Western or Trail Guide, and they include the following titles: Assistant Instructor, Level One through Four Instructors, Assistant Clinic Instructor and Clinic Instructor. Every three years, CHA instructors must reapply for certification.

    Considerations

    • Becoming a certified equestrian instructor is a career investment that can influence your earning potential. Reputable equestrian instructor certification programs are diverse, each focusing on specific specialties for various rates. Take into consideration your choice of specialization and financial situation, taking into account the costs associated with membership, renewal and examination fees, travel expenses and the purchase of publications, before commiting to a certification program.