Forms & Documents

NSBA Judges Application
Judges Exam – Tentative date: November 30, 2026 - Weatherford, TX
Restricted Rail Judge Testing: June 21-22, 2026 - Fort Worth Texas

*** New Judge Applications are due in the NSBA office by October 1, 2026
Restricted Judge Testing - Rail Applications due in the NSBA office by May 15 2026
For details on the Restricted see application below!
.
  • NSBA Membership: Applicant must be a current NSBA member in good standing member for at least one year prior to the year in which you apply.
  • Applicant must be at least 25.
  • Applicant must complete and submit the NSBA Judges Application by October 1st.
  • Application names will be published prior to the Judges Committee review.
  • References: An application must have a total of six (6) references:
    • Two (2) Personal references from current NSBA members
    • Two (2) Show Management references applicant has worked for in the past
    • Two (2) Judge references from NSBA Judges

    References will be completed and returned to the NSBA office by the person who completes them. All references must be in our files prior to October 1st, or the application will be considered incomplete, and will not qualify for review. No member of the Judges Committee may be used for a reference. Reference forms are included with this application, and also available on the NSBA Website.

  • After the application deadline, the Judges Committee will review all completed applications. Following the Judges Committee review, applicants will be notified as to whether they have been invited to the applicant testing. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed by the Judges Committee.
  • Approved applicants will be tested in Texas, date and location, to be determined. A confirmation letter with exact dates and times of required sessions, will be sent to all approved applicants. Applicant testing will include a current year closed rulebook test, video testing on all NSBA disciplines, and a personal interview session.
  • The scores earned at the judges' school will be reviewed by the Judges Committee at their next scheduled meeting. The Committee will solely determine if an applicant's qualifications approve him/her for holding NSBA judging credentials.
  • If you are approved for judging status, your name will be added to the permanent judges list, and it will be mandatory to attend a re-certification session within your first year as an NSBA Judge.
  • NSBA application fee of $100 is non-refundable.
  • For any questions please contact the office at 847-623-6722 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

    • The mission of the National Snaffle Bit Association is to grow the show horse community through various equine programs and events where every activity benefits horses, breeders, owners and exhibitors alike.

    Newsletter Signup

    Follow Us On

    National Snaffle Bit Association, Inc. - 120 Mesa Street, Weatherford, TX 76086 - Phone: (847)-623-6722 | Privacy Policy

    Copyright © 2017 National Snaffle Bit Association, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    Go to top