Instructor Credential Frequently Asked Questions
What does "in good standing" mean?
The member does not have any non-medical USEF suspensions, has a current USHJA membership above the Outreach level, and has completed the Safe Sport training annually.
Why can’t I view the online courses on my phone?
If you are trying to access the courses from a phone that utilizes the Safari browser, pop-ups are generally blocked by default. Go to your phone’s Settings, then to Safari, and disable the “Block Pop-Ups” feature.
I am a USEF Licensed Official with a current background check. Can I use that for the purpose of this program?
Current USEF Licensed Officials who have a background check dated within 12 months of the start date of the Live Workshop and Examination for which they are already enrolled may contact USEF’s background check entity (NCSI) directly and request a secured copy of their USEF background check. A PDF copy can then be emailed to USHJAInstructor@ushja.org for verification. If approved, staff will mark this requirement complete. Contact NCSI at support@ncsisafe.com or call 866-996-7412.
Do I have to be a USEF member to access the Safe Sport training?
While being a USEF member is not required to earn the Instructor Credential, individuals must have a paid USEF membership in order to access the Safe Sport courses. The Subscriber membership is the most affordable. Click here to register for a USEF membership.
Why do I have to complete a Candidate Experience Form?
The purpose of this requirement is for participants to gain at least 40 hours of experience instructing riders in mounted and unmounted lessons before attending a Live Workshop and Examination where they will teach in front of their peers and be evaluated by an examiner(s). Earning the Instructor Credential asks a lot of participants so to ensure that live session attendees get the most out of their experience, we want to help set them up for success.
Why does it take 30 days before I know if I am Credentialed?
During the live session, each examiner takes thorough notes about each candidates’ examination lessons. After the session, examiners compare their notes to the rubric and use it to mark each candidate’s scorecard. They leave personalized feedback with recommended action items for candidates to use to improve their teaching techniques. Due to the time necessary for examiners to provide thoughtful, individualized comments and for staff to process scores for 12 attendees, it can take up to 30 days for candidates to hear back about their Credentialed status.
Are there grants available to help me cover the costs of participating?
To support members in their pursuit of personal and professional goals, the USHJA offers grants to eligible USHJA Instructor Credential participants who complete the online coursework and attend a Live Workshop and Examination in full (earning Credentialed Instructor status is not required). Click here for more information about the Instructor Credential grant and click here for information about the Naomi Blumenthal Memorial Training Grant.
TCP Frequently Asked Questions
The Trainer Certification Program closed on November 30, 2025. What will happen to my TCP Certification?
The TCP program sunset on November 30, 2025, and all current TCP certifications expired. TCP Trainers will no longer be listed on the directory and certifications will not be maintained or recognized by USHJA. To continue receiving USHJA recognition for teaching, consider participating in the USHJA Instructor Credential or Recognized Riding Academy program.
Do I have to complete the Candidate Experience Form?
Because Certified Trainers have proven records for teaching experience, this requirement is automatically waived past TCP Trainers.
Will Certified Trainers remain listed on the Directory?
Certified Trainers will no longer be included in on the Instructor Credential Directory.
Who can I contact for more information?
Contact the USHJA Instructor Credential Coordinator at ushjainstructor@ushja.org or 859-225-6700 with questions or for more information.
