Certificates & Examinations

Certificates are an essential part of the Pony Club system, providing incentive and encouragement to learn and improve members riding skills at all levels. Pony Club Manuals 1 contains all the syllabus information needed for the Certificates D, D+ and C. The syllabus information for Certificates C+, B, A and H is to be found in Pony Club Manual 2.

Beginner riders start with their D certificate then work towards D+, C, C+, B and A certificates. More experienced riders new to pony club may after assessment by their branch head coach be able to start working towards their C certificate. However they will need to complete and undertake any earlier certificate examinations, while working towards their target certificate.


D Certificate
Approximately 8/9 years
D + Certificate
Approximately 9/10 years
C Certificate
Approximately 10/11 years
Examinations for D, D+  and C certificate can be organised by Branch Head Coaches

The Branch however must submit names of riders and examiner to the
District Commissioner & Chief Coach
at least a month before the proposed examination date
C+ Certificate
Approximately 12/13 years
Examination for C+, B and A&H certificates can only be organised by FDPC Chief Coach

Special district assessment (Mock exam) for C+ , B and examination days are set each season and will be promoted to branches well in advance. Branch head coaches need to nominate the names of branch members ready to sit these certificate examinations to FDPC Chief coach at least 2 months before district examination date. The branch head coach must also ensure that all the necessary paperwork has been completed before the member attends the examination.
B Certificate
Approximately 14/15 years
A and H Certificate > 16 years, are organised Nationally through NZPCA


Members must have attended at least 5 rallies of which 3 need to have been on the specified mount they intend to sit the examination upon, before they can sit a certificate examination.

If members enjoy writing or making things or project work outside the usual certificate requirements, you may be interested in working towards your O certificate.