USEF Driving Trial at the Ram Tap Horse Park, May 4, 2025

This USEF Short Format competition will be held immediately following the ADS Driving Trial, the idea being that competitors will take advantage of the opportunity to enter both shows – more competitive “bang” for the “bucks” already spent getting to the show venue.  

The differences between ADS and USEF (Short Format) rules at these shows:

• USEF dressage tests will be used for the USEF show.
• USEF has a Beginner level in addition to the divisions offered by ADS.  
• At Beginner and Training levels, you are allowed to have someone read the dressage test to you, rather than needing to drive the test from memory.
• Training level does gates A-D on marathon.
• Missing a Compulsory Turning Flag (numbered gate) on (Short Format) marathon is penalized by 5 points, rather than elimination, as is the case with ADS.
• Grooms will not be required for single turnouts except at Advanced.
• USEF requires a drug testing fee of $23 (separate from the California $14 drug fee).

There are several requirements at USEF CDEs (as compared to Short Format events) that will not be included at this show:

• horses must wear a bridle number at all times
• jog for soundness at the start of the show
• soundness check with the vet before marathon
• regimented cool down after marathon
• because you don’t need to be a USEF member, you do not need to take the Safe Sport training

You do not need to be a member of USEF, nor does your horse need to be registered with USEF.  If you are not a member, you apply online for a one time “show pass” for a fee of $45.

In summary, there are no significant differences, so if you’re familiar with ADS rules, you will be well prepared to compete in the USEF show, too.