So You Want To Be A Racehorse Trainer In New York
Depending on how much hands-on Thoroughbred experience one possesses, there is usually work to be had as a hotwalker or groom, or even an exercise rider at most racetracks. There may then be an opportunity to transition to foreman or assistant trainer to learn how to manage a stable. In order to take the next step, a candidate will have to pass the trainer exam (written and practical).
New York State License Requirements – Assistant Trainers (Rule § 4002.21)
(a) In addition to the qualifications set forth in section 4002.8* of this Part, an initial license as an assistant trainer may only be issued to an applicant who:
(1) is at least 18 years of age;
(2) has a minimum of three years’ experience in the care of horses on the racetrack or horse farm, at least two full years of which is as a gainfully employed licensed groom or licensed exercise person;
(3) is vouched for, in writing, by the licensed trainer by whom such assistant trainer will be employed;
(4) passes a written or oral test conducted by the commission, which may include questions on horse anatomy, disease, medication, applicable rules, regulations and training conditions of racing, stable business management, training procedures and equipment; and
(5) passes a practical examination administered by the commission, which may include questions on anatomy, lameness/disease and care of a horse and demonstrations of bandaging, saddling and other standard practices.
(b) The commission may waive such testing requirements if the applicant has been licensed as an assistant trainer in another jurisdiction for at least one year and otherwise satisfies the commission as to experience and competence.
*(a) In considering qualifications for a license pursuant to Racing, Pari-Mutuel Wagering and Breeding Law section 220(2), the commission may establish criteria to be met concerning specific license occupations as a condition for licensing. If the commission finds that the applicant fails to meet any of said conditions, the commission shall not grant such license and the commission shall notify the applicant of the denial.
Study Guide for Trainer Aspirants
NYSGC Licensing – General Information
New York State License Requirements – Trainers (Rule § 4002.22)
In addition to the qualifications set forth in section 4002.8 (see above) of this Part, an initial trainer’s license may only be issued to an applicant who:
(a) has been employed at least 12 months as a licensed assistant trainer in this State; or
(b) has been licensed as a trainer in another jurisdiction for one year, and presents a certificate from the stewards at a track in such other jurisdiction that they believe such applicant to be a competent and qualified trainer.
NYSGC License Application LINK
Continuing Education
Both HISA and NYSGC require four (4) hours of Continuing Education annually. Suitable courses are available on HorsemenU.
In order to maintain a current license, trainers and assistant trainers must complete at least four hours per calendar year of continuing education courses approved by the commission. Trainers and assistant trainers who are not domiciled in New York and have 12 or fewer starts during the previous 12 months may request a waiver of this requirement from the State steward.
