Warning Card System

Warning Card System

In 2025, the US Equestrian Board of Directors approved amendments to GR1037 designed to encourage and empower Judges, Stewards, and Technical Delegates to address and correct conduct as it happens. As part of the revision of this rule, USEF focused on clarity and flexibility by streamlining the existing Yellow Warning Card process and adding a Recorded Warning process to provide a mechanism for addressing less egregious behavior.

A Recorded Warning may be issued by a Judge, Steward, or Technical Delegate for minor offenses, including behavior that should not be repeated. A Yellow Warning Card may be given by the same category of officials at a competition for improper conduct or noncompliance when the misconduct is not a minor offense and may not be severe enough to warrant formal disciplinary action. These options give officials tools to take immediate corrective action and create a teachable moment, rather than documenting a situation and awaiting an investigation process. Officials may issue a warning card and also refer the incident to USEF for further action if they feel formal disciplinary action may be appropriate.

If someone receives three or more Recorded Warnings or two or more Yellow Warning Cards in a 12-month period, USEF will seek a fine or suspension of no less than two months against the member.

Per GR1037, Recorded Warnings and Yellow Warning Cards are published for a period of 12 months.