What it takes to become a professional jockey

A professional jockey is a licensed rider who competes in horse racing under the rules of racing commissions in your state. The path involves apprenticeship under a trainer, passing a written exam on racing rules, obtaining a jockey license from your state racing commission, and riding in races at licensed tracks. Most jockeys start between ages 16 and 25, though some begin earlier through racing schools.

The job itself is physically demanding: you weigh between 108 and 118 pounds typically, maintain that weight year-round through diet and exercise, ride horses at speeds over 40 miles per hour, and accept significant injury risk. Earnings come from race purses (a percentage of what your horse wins) and fees from trainers who book you to ride. Top jockeys at major tracks earn six figures annually; most earn far less, especially starting out.

Unlike many careers, there is no single national pathway. Each state racing commission sets its own licensing rules, exam content, and apprenticeship requirements. What works in Kentucky differs from California or New York. You must research the specific rules in the state where you want to race.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a state jockey license, which requires passing a written exam on racing rules and completing an apprenticeship under a licensed trainer.
  • Most states require you to be at least 16 years old and have completed a racing school or equivalent training before you can sit for the licensing exam.
  • Your state racing commission administers the exam and issues the license; requirements vary significantly by state.
  • Starting jockeys typically earn a percentage of purses (usually 5 to 10 percent) plus fees from trainers, with income growing as you win more races.
  • Physical fitness, weight management, and injury tolerance are non-negotiable parts of the job, not just entry requirements.

Finding a trainer and completing apprenticeship

Before you can sit for a jockey license exam, you must work under a licensed trainer. A trainer teaches you how to ride racehorses, how to handle different horses' temperaments, race strategy, and how to follow racing commission rules. This is not classroom work—it is hands-on, daily work at a racetrack or training facility.

Finding a trainer means going to racetracks in your state and asking trainers directly if they take apprentices. Bring a resume that shows any riding experience (English riding, Western riding, or racing school attendance all count). Trainers are more likely to take you seriously if you have already completed a racing school or have documented riding hours. Some trainers advertise apprenticeships through track management offices or racing associations.

Apprenticeship length varies. Some trainers work with you for six months; others expect a year or more before they think you are ready for a license exam. During this time you are usually unpaid or paid very little, though you gain experience and a trainer's recommendation letter, which most states require for licensing.

Passing your state's jockey license exam

Each state racing commission administers its own jockey exam. The test covers racing rules specific to that state, horse racing terminology, track safety, medication rules for horses, and betting regulations. You cannot study from a single national textbook because the rules differ by state.

To find your state's exam requirements, contact your state racing commission directly. Search "[your state] racing commission" online or call the main office. They will tell you the exam format (written, oral, or both), the topics covered, the passing score, and the fee. Some states publish study guides; others do not. Your trainer should know what is on the exam in your state and may provide study materials.

Exam fees typically range from $50 to $200, depending on the state. You usually must pass on your first or second attempt; some states limit retakes. After you pass, the racing commission issues your license, which is valid for one to three years depending on the state, then requires renewal.

Getting your jockey license from the racing commission

After you pass the exam, you submit a license process to your state racing commission. The process requires your exam results, your trainer's recommendation letter, proof of age, and sometimes a background check. Some states also require a medical exam to confirm you are physically fit to ride.

Processing times vary from two weeks to two months. Once approved, you receive a jockey license card. This license is what allows you to ride in races at tracks in that state. If you want to ride in other states, you must obtain licenses from those states' racing commissions as well. Some states have reciprocal agreements that make this faster; others require you to pass their exam or submit additional paperwork.

Your license is not permanent. Most states require renewal every one to three years, which involves paying a renewal fee (usually $50 to $150) and sometimes passing a refresher exam or medical check. If you have violations—riding infractions, failed drug tests, or rule breaches—the commission can suspend or revoke your license.

Racing schools and formal training programs

Racing schools exist in several states and teach the fundamentals of jockey riding before you seek a trainer. These are not required in every state, but many racing commissions view them favorably, and some trainers prefer apprentices who have attended one. Schools typically run two to twelve weeks and cost $2,000 to $10,000.

Major racing schools include the National Thoroughbred Racing Association's jockey school (locations vary by year) and state-specific schools in Kentucky, California, and New York. Some are housed at racetracks; others are independent facilities. A racing school teaches you how to mount a horse, balance in the saddle at speed, communicate with a horse through reins and legs, and understand racing terminology and strategy.

Attending a racing school does not replace apprenticeship under a trainer, but it shortens the apprenticeship period and makes trainers more willing to take you on. If you have no riding background, a racing school is a practical first step before approaching trainers.

Physical requirements and weight management

Jockeys must maintain a weight between roughly 108 and 118 pounds. This is not a guideline—it is a hard requirement because horse racing is weight-based. A horse carrying 120 pounds performs differently than one carrying 110 pounds, and races are designed with specific weight assignments. If you cannot maintain the required weight, you cannot ride.

Weight management for jockeys is extreme. Most jockeys eat controlled diets (often 1,200 to 1,500 calories per day), exercise daily, and use saunas or sweat suits to shed water weight before races. Some jockeys develop eating disorders or dehydration problems from the pressure to stay light. This is a real occupational hazard, not a minor inconvenience.

Beyond weight, you need strong legs, core strength, and balance. Jockeys ride in a forward position (called a "two-point" seat) that requires constant muscle engagement. You also need quick reflexes, good vision, and the ability to stay calm when a 1,200-pound animal is moving at high speed. Most jockeys train with a personal fitness coach or at a gym that understands racing-specific conditioning.

Starting your riding career and building income

Once licensed, you contact trainers to book rides. A trainer hires you to ride a specific horse in a specific race. You earn a percentage of the purse (the prize money) if the horse finishes in the money (first, second, or third place). Percentages vary but typically range from 5 to 10 percent of the purse. If the horse does not finish in the money, you earn nothing from that race, though some trainers pay a small flat fee per ride regardless of outcome.

Your first rides will likely be at smaller tracks or in lower-level races where competition is less fierce. As you win more races, your reputation grows, and trainers book you for higher-stakes races. Building a client base of trainers who trust you is how you increase your riding opportunities and earnings.

Most jockeys also have an agent—a person who negotiates rides on their behalf, handles scheduling, and takes a percentage of earnings (usually 10 to 25 percent). An agent has relationships with trainers and can get you more rides than you could book yourself. Finding an agent usually happens after you have ridden a few dozen races and shown you can win.

Injury risk and career longevity

Jockeys are injured frequently. Falls from horses, collisions with other riders, and horses stepping on riders happen regularly. Common injuries include broken bones, concussions, and spinal injuries. Some jockeys suffer career-ending injuries; others retire due to cumulative damage. There is no way to eliminate this risk—it is inherent to the job.

Career length varies widely. Some jockeys ride professionally for 20 or 30 years; others are forced to retire after five years due to injury or inability to maintain weight. Insurance and workers' compensation vary by state and track, so understand your coverage before you start. Many jockeys transition to training, horse management, or other racing-related work after their riding career ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to own a horse to become a jockey?

No. Trainers own or manage the horses; you ride them. You are hired by trainers to ride their horses in races. You never own the horse you ride, and you do not need to own one to start your career.

Can I become a jockey if I am over 25?

Yes, though it is less common. Most jockeys start between 16 and 25 because they are lighter and have more years ahead to build a career. If you are older and can maintain the weight requirement and pass the training and exam, you can still obtain a license. Your age is not a legal barrier, but it may affect how many trainers want to work with you.

What happens if I fail the jockey license exam?

You can retake it. Most states allow at least two attempts; some allow more. You pay the exam fee again and study the material you missed. Failing once does not disqualify you from becoming a jockey—it just means you need more preparation before your next attempt.

How much money do jockeys make starting out?

Starting jockeys at small tracks might earn $500 to $2,000 per month if they ride regularly. This depends entirely on how many rides you book and how often your horses finish in the money. Top jockeys at major tracks earn six figures; most earn between $20,000 and $100,000 annually. Income is highly variable and depends on your skill, reputation, and the tracks where you ride.

Do I need a high school diploma to become a jockey?

Requirements vary by state. Some racing commissions require a high school diploma or GED; others do not. Check with your state racing commission to confirm what documentation you need before you explore for a license.