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Riding Assessment

In order to obtain a jockeys licence you must complete the IHRB Riding Assessment. 

Flat Assessment


The assessment takes place in RACE Training Centre. 


Applicants undertake four stages when undergoing the assessment: 


  • Tack Up 
  • Warm up indoor arena 
  • Gallops assessment 
  • Simulator session 




You will need to bring the following items to your assessment:

  • Arrive dressed ready to ride
  • Suitable riding boots (not racing boots)
  • Racing standard back protector
    (EN – 13158:2018 (Level 2 or 3) Note: For the purposes of race riding, the modified Level 2 version RACEMOTION 2 (Racesafe) is currently the only approved Level 2 version.
  • Helmet (See table below)
  • Goggles
  • Whip

Schooling Assessment 


The assessment takes place in RACE Training Centre. 


Applicants undertake the following stages when undergoing the assessment: 


  • Tack up
  • Warm up indoor arena
  • Gallops assessment 
  • Schooling over tyres on gallops assessment


Please note that if you are competent carrying out all of the above tasks, you will be permitted to progress to the next stage of the assessment which includes:


  •  Curragh schooling strip assessment
  •  Simulator Session

You will need to bring the following items to your assessment: 

  • Arrive dressed ready to ride
  • Suitable riding boots (not racing boots)
  • Racing standard back protector
    (EN – 13158:2018 (Level 2 or 3) Note: For the purposes of race riding, the modified Level 2 version RACEMOTION 2 (Racesafe) is currently the only approved Level 2 version.
  • Helmet (See table below)
  • Goggles
  • Whip
A helmet must comply with at least one standard from Group A
 AND
 at least one different standard from Group B
Group A
Group B
British standard PAS 015 2011 and any subsequent updates.
British standard PAS 015 2011 and any subsequent updates.
European standard (EN): UKCA and/or CE marked products referencing harmonised standard EN1384:2023
European standard (EN) UKCA or CE marked products referencing harmonised standard EN1384:2023.
European standard (EN): UKCA and/or CE marked products referencing the VG1 performance specification. (Note: VG 1 will be withdrawn as an acceptable standard on 1 June 2025)
European standard (EN) UKCA or CE marked products referencing the VG1 performance specification. (Note: VG 1 will be withdrawn as an acceptable standard on 1 June 2025)

American ASTM F1163: 2015 and any subsequent updates

American Snell E2016 and any subsequent updates (Please note: Snell combines a standard with subsequent quality testing; therefore, no additional quality testing mark is required).