What are the Grades in para dressage?
B · Beginner · Grades and aids · 2 of 4Numbered functional profiles set each rider's Grade. Grade I is for severe impairment of all limbs and trunk, usually in a wheelchair; Grade V for mild impairment or one limb deficiency. Vision-impaired riders are Grade IV (B1, totally blind) or V (B2). Tests run from walk only in Grade I to canter with lateral work in Grade V.
How it works
- Grade I: severe impairment of all limbs and trunk.
- Grade II: severe trunk impairment, or moderate in all.
- Grade III: severe impairment of both legs, or moderate in all.
- Grade IV: both arms, short stature or B1 vision.
- Grade V: mild impairment, or B2 vision.
- Profiles: numbered, such as 36 for totally blind.
- Vision: classified by IBSA classifiers.
- Not eligible: some profiles, such as 29 and 30.
The glossary has the Grade (para dressage), the functional profile, the minimum impairment criteria (para equestrian), the not eligible (para equestrian), the para dressage tests and the commander and caller.
Tricky cases
Does Grade I canter?
No. Grade I tests are walk only.
Which Grade is a totally blind rider?
Grade IV.
Who classifies vision-impaired riders?
A panel of IBSA classifiers.
Is short stature eligible?
Yes, in Grade IV.
Why the rule exists
Grades match the test to what the rider's body allows. Profiles make classification consistent across classifiers.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Grade I | Walk only | 8403 |
| Grades II and III | Walk and trot | 8403 |
| Grades IV and V | Canter | 8403 |
From the rule book
FEI, Para Equestrian Classification Rules (updates effective 1 January 2026), Appendix I, with FEI, Para Dressage Rules, 4th edition (1 January 2026), articles 8403 and 8429. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: FEI Para Dressage Rules, 4th edition.