Sport & Results

Understanding Dressage Tests: Tests, Levels, and FN Regulations

To prepare for a dressage test, you need the specific test sheet and the applicable rules. The FN Test Booklet, the LPO, and supplementary regulations will help you with your preparation.

Equidara editorial team · 10 October 2026 · 3 min read

Dressage tests and FN regulations for preparing a dressage competition — AI-generated image

When preparing for a dressage test in Germany, you need two things: the specific test sheet and the applicable competition rules. The dressage tests are published in the national "Aufgabenheft Reiten" (Test Booklet for Riding) of the German Equestrian Federation (FN). The "Leistungs-Prüfungs-Ordnung" (LPO) regulates, among other things, participation, requirements, and equipment. For levels E, A, and L, the FN's digital platform also offers a visual guide. Which movements you practice depends on the specific test.

Distinguishing Between Level Designation and Specific Test

A level designation and a written-out test are not the same. What you are supposed to ride in a dressage test is stated in the test description. The level letter alone won't tell you that.

According to the FN's regulations offering, the national "Aufgabenheft Reiten" includes dressage tests, among other things. It also contains tests for riding competitions, as well as basic and introductory tests. Make sure to read the exact test you will be riding.

Two questions can be separated here: What are you supposed to ride, and under what conditions are you allowed to compete? The first question is answered by the test sheet, the second by the LPO. Both texts complement each other during preparation.

Using the Digital Test Booklet

Through the FN's digital platform, you can have dressage tests read aloud to you. For tests in levels E, A, and L, there is also a visual guide at the end. This way, you can grasp the flow not just through text.

According to the FN Regulations Online Offering, the LPO, the national and international "Aufgabenheft Reiten", and the "Wettbewerbsordnung für den Breitensport" (WBO) are accessible on all mobile devices.

What the LPO Regulates for Dressage Tests

The FN describes the LPO as the regulatory framework for competitive equestrian sport in Germany. It defines, among other things, participation requirements for riders and horses. It also regulates the competition procedure, the requirements for individual disciplines, and judging.

The permissible number of starts for a horse per day is also stated in the LPO. Therefore, preparation is not limited to reading the test sheet. You should separately check the regulations for participation, procedure, and starting opportunities.

According to FNverlag, the LPO is binding for all natural and legal persons affiliated with the FN who prepare, conduct, supervise, or participate in performance tests or horse performance tests. Thus, it is not only aimed at the competing riders.

Considering Equipment and Supplementary Regulations

In Germany, the LPO also determines the permissible equipment. This includes, for example, the bits and boots allowed in the respective tests. Therefore, you should check the equipment separately from the test description.

The FN's equipment catalog provides supplementary and clarifying information for dressage, show jumping, and eventing regarding §§ 68 and 70 of the LPO. These concern the equipment for riders and horses.

Between new editions of the LPO, changes and clarifications may also appear as announcements. According to the FN, these additions are part of the valid regulations. Special provisions of the State Commissions can further define LPO regulations. Therefore, pay attention to the current regulations of the commission area in Germany where the competition takes place.

Organizing Your Preparation

Here's how you can go through the documents step by step:

Read the specific dressage test in the national Test Booklet.
If needed, use the read-aloud function and, for E, A, and L, the visual guide.
Check the LPO for participation conditions and test requirements.
Include the equipment catalog and supplementary announcements.
Observe the special provisions of the responsible commission area.

For initial starts in competitions, FNverlag describes the WBO as a guide. The LPO, on the other hand, applies to competitive equestrian sport in Germany.

Common questions

Where can I find the specific dressage tests?

The national "Aufgabenheft Reiten" (Test Booklet for Riding) of the FN includes dressage tests, among other things. It is also accessible via the FN's online regulations offering.

What digital aids are available for E, A, and L?

According to the FN, dressage tests can be read aloud in the digital offering. Tests for levels E, A, and L also include a visual guide at the end.

Where are the permitted equipment regulations found?

In Germany, the LPO determines the permissible equipment. The FN's equipment catalog provides supplementary and clarifying information for dressage, show jumping, and eventing regarding §§ 68 and 70 of the LPO.

Are there other regulations to consider besides the LPO?

Yes. According to the FN, supplementary announcements are part of the valid regulations. Furthermore, special provisions of the State Commissions can further define LPO regulations. You should observe the current regulations of the commission area in Germany where the competition takes place.

Sources

Written by Equidara editorial team. Last checked: 10 October 2026.