Did you know that horseback riding requires a license? While you can enjoy riding without one, holding a license comes with its own advantages. Here, we introduce the different types of horseback riding licenses, their benefits, and the costs involved.
What Are Horseback Riding Licenses?
What makes horseback riding enjoyable? It might be seeing new scenery from horseback, enjoying outdoor rides, or feeling the horse’s movement. Pursuing a license can boost your motivation and deepen your enjoyment.
Horseback riding licenses are recognized by the Japan Equestrian Federation as “Horseback Riding Skill Certification Examinations.” They are categorized from Level 1 to Level 5, with Levels 1 and 2 being more specialized, while Levels 3 to 5 cover basic riding knowledge and skills. Besides these, there’s also the “Rider Qualification” necessary for competitive events, but here we focus on the skill certification exams. Many questions may come up: Do you need a license if riding as a hobby? What are the benefits? What does the exam involve and how difficult is it? The exams include practical and written tests. Here’s an overview of the tests for Levels 3 to 5.
Introduction to Level 5 License
The Level 5 license can often be obtained through short-term experience courses like a 3-day trial, even without club membership. The practical test covers mounting, dismounting, stopping, maintaining proper posture while walking, and the light trot, which can be challenging initially but becomes manageable with practice. The written exam tests knowledge of horse anatomy and care, with a pass rate above 90%.
Introduction to Level 4 License
Level 4 adds more riding components. The practical exam includes moving in groups and performing turns with half-halts, and transitioning smoothly between walk, trot, and halt. Mounting, maintaining a correct posture during trot, and the start and control of canter are also evaluated. More practice is needed compared to Level 5, especially for cantering. The written test covers horse coat colors, equipment names, basic commands, and movement behaviors.
Introduction to Level 3 License
When aiming for a Level 3 license, your familiarity and trust with horses will be well established. You’ll be recognized as a proficient rider, and dress code for exams may be formal from this level. The Level 3 exam includes riding tests in both ring and obstacle courses, covering various maneuvers and technical skills. You might need around 150 rides for ring tests and over 200 for obstacle tests. Some clubs offer fast-track courses lasting around 30 days, costing roughly 300,000 yen, to develop solid skills. Achieving this level might also qualify you for endurance competitions, which are part of the World Cup and Japan Equestrian Federation events. Olympic events include dressage and show jumping.
Benefits of Obtaining a License
Is it necessary to get a license for hobby horseback riding? While you can enjoy riding without a license, having one offers advantages. For example, a Level 5 license allows you to enjoy more advanced riding courses like horse trekking. It also helps you stay motivated and objectively assess your skills. Since the Japan Equestrian Federation is a public organization, its certifications are highly trusted and can be included on your resume. While horse riding is a niche sport in Japan, having a license can set you apart and generate interest among others.
Cost and Time for Certification
The costs and duration vary by level. For Level 5, a short-term experience course like a 3-day trial can cost around 40,000 to 50,000 yen, including exam fees, rental, insurance, textbooks, and application fees. For Level 4, more practice is needed, especially for cantering. Typically, about 10 rides are needed for Level 5, but Level 4 may require 40 to over 200 rides, depending on the individual’s progress. Short-term courses are common, costing around 200,000 yen. Level 3 requires more extensive practice, with around 150 rides for ring tests and over 200 for obstacle courses. Some clubs offer 30-day courses for approximately 300,000 yen, but extending the training increases costs. Alternatively, regular practice at a club involves membership fees, riding and instruction fees, and equipment costs like helmets and boots. Cost varies by region and club.
Where Can You Obtain a License?
Licenses are issued through riding clubs affiliated with the Japan Equestrian Federation, which can be found on their website.
Summary
You can ride without a license, but obtaining one can increase motivation and skill. Studying for the written exam can deepen your knowledge and improve your relationship with horses. We recommend setting a goal to obtain a license to enjoy horse riding even more.