Membership
As a member of the LA Chapter:
Automatic entry into the LA Chapter year-end awards program
Invitations to chapter-hosted events and our annual banquet
Access to local volunteer opportunities
Email updates with chapter news
As a member of California Dressage Society:
Eligibility for CDS-recognized shows and championships
Statewide programs like Regional Adult Amateur Championships (RAAC), Junior/Young Rider Championships, and Gem Rider Awards
Email notifications for shows, clinics, and events throughout the state
Monthly Dressage Letters newsletter
Join or Renew
You can join the LA Chapter by joining CDS and selecting “Los Angeles” as your chapter. There’s no extra fee on top of CDS dues, and you’ll automatically receive all the benefits of both statewide membership and local chapter involvement.
All memberships are handled through the CDS website. Whether you’re joining for the first time, renewing, or switching from another chapter, we’ve outlined the steps below.
Sign up directly through the California Dressage Society website:
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Go to the CDS Membership Options page.
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Under New Member, click the appropriate Join button for your age group.
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Fill out the membership form.
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Under Chapter Preference select Los Angeles.
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Submit payment for your annual CDS dues.
Once signed up, you'll be automatically added to the LA Chapter and start receiving updates and benefits.
Renew directly through the California Dressage Society website:
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Go to the CDS Membership Options page.
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Under Already a Member, click the appropriate Renew button for your age group.
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Enter your last name or member number to locate your membership.
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Next to your membership information, click Renew.
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Fill out the membership renewal form.
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Under Chapter Preference select Los Angeles.
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Submit payment for your annual CDS dues.
Changing your chapter is free and easy. Email paula@california-dressage.org and request to transfer to the Los Angeles Chapter—no additional fee required.
Why Join?
Whether you’re an active competitor, a returning rider, or someone who simply enjoys the sport—we’d love to have you.
Build community
Meet fellow riders and trainers across LA County
Stay informed
Get updates on shows, education, and events
Celebrate progress
Earn year-end awards and attend our annual banquet
Make a difference
Sponsor or volunteer to help keep our sport strong
Membership FAQ
CDS stands for the California Dressage Society, a nonprofit organization that supports dressage riders through education, competition, awards, and community. It is one of the largest Group Member Organizations (GMOs) of the United States Dressage Federation (USDF), which itself is the official affiliate association for dressage under the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF).
Riders who wish to compete at recognized dressage competitions, like the show series offered by the LA Chapter, need active competing memberships with USEF, USDF, and CDS.
No, you can join simply to learn, volunteer, or stay connected to the dressage community. Your annual CDS membership supports the sport whether or not you choose to show.
Yes! We welcome riders of all levels and backgrounds.
No, many of our members lease, take lessons, or simply enjoy supporting dressage. Everyone is welcome.
No. When you join CDS, your chapter membership is included in your annual CDS dues.
The CDS membership year runs December to December. If you join CDS after October you're considered a member for the following year.
You can email paula@california-dressage.org and request to switch to the Los Angeles Chapter—there’s no additional cost.
The California Dressage Society offers a variety of programs to support members throughout their dressage journey. You can explore statewide shows, awards, and educational scholarships at the links below:
These opportunities are open to all CDS members and are a great way to stay engaged, motivated, and supported—whether you’re competing or continuing your education.
Have Questions?
If you're unsure which membership option is right for you or have any other questions, visit our Contact page to get in touch with the LA Chapter team.