State competition requirement: Riders aged 14 and over who have been members for more than two years must hold a minimum C certificate to compete at state-level events.
Getting started
E Certificate
Club assessor
No prerequisites
The starting point for every rider. Covers basic control at walk and trot, safe mounting and dismounting, and an introduction to horse care, grooming, and feeding. No written exam required.
Assessed within your own club by an accredited coach or assessor.
D Certificate
Club assessor
Builds on the E certificate with increased independence — trotting, turning, stopping, and beginning to canter without assistance. Horse care knowledge expands to cover stable management, common ailments, and safe tacking up.
Assessed within your club. E certificate is recommended preparation but not a formal prerequisite.
D* Certificate
Club assessor
Requires D
An intermediate step between D and C. Riders demonstrate more confident canter work and a developing secure position. Expanded horse care knowledge including nutrition, health monitoring, and horse behaviour.
Assessed within your club. D certificate is a prerequisite.
Building mastery
C Certificate
Zone examiner
Requires D*
The recommended baseline for all riding members. Represents a sound foundation in riding skill, safety, and horsemanship — capable control at all paces, jumping technique, and thorough horse management knowledge. From C, riders can progress via either C* or K.
Assessed by a Zone Examiner — not at your own club. No written paper required.
C* Certificate
Age 14+
An interim step between C and B — checks progress and maintains motivation. One of two pathways to B. Requires C certificate.
K Certificate
Age 14+
The alternative pathway between C and B. Demonstrates active riding at faster paces and an increasingly independent, effective seat. Requires C certificate.
C* and K are alternative routes to B — complete either one, not both.
Advanced & elite
B Certificate
Zone level
Age 16+ · Requires C* or K
A significant achievement requiring an in-depth knowledge of stable management and very competent riding. Candidates ride horses they may not know — a true test of horsemanship. Organised at zone level, bringing together candidates from multiple clubs. Worksheets guide candidates through the syllabus prior to assessment.
Contact your Zone Representative for the next B certificate assessment date in your zone.
A Certificate
National level
Requires B
The pinnacle of the Pony Club Australia certificate system. The A certificate demands the highest standard of riding and comprehensive horse management — organised at national level and recognised across Australia. Most candidates at this level are pursuing or considering professional equestrian careers. Worksheets guide preparation through the full national syllabus.
Arranged through Pony Club Australia. Contact PCV for guidance on preparation pathways and assessment opportunities.
How to get assessed
Assessed within your own club by an accredited coach. Your coach uses progressive marking sheets to track skills across rallies — less pressure than a single formal test day.
Assessed by a Zone Examiner — not at your own club. Speak to your District Commissioner or Secretary about arranging assessment through your zone.
Organised at zone level, usually bringing candidates from multiple clubs together. Your Zone Representative can advise on the next assessment date in your area.
Organised at national level through Pony Club Australia. Contact PCV for guidance on preparation clinics and assessment opportunities.
Resources for coaches and assessors
PCV provides progressive marking sheets for E, D, D*, C, and C* certificates. Coaches mark topics taught at each rally, then tick off competencies as demonstrated — making assessment ongoing rather than a single high-stakes event. Certificate manuals for B and A levels are available for purchase through JustGo.
Ready to start your grading journey?
Talk to your club coach or District Commissioner about where you are on the pathway. Not yet a member? Find a club near you and come along for a Come & Try day.