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 ⚠️ Today is the last day to join a National Show committee! The 2026 ABGA National Show is calling for volunteers to serve on sub-committees. From youth programs to decorations, there’s a place for everyone! 🔗 abga.org/national-show/2026-national-show-committees-sign-up

Judges Certification

Learn about ABGA Judges Certification requirements, scoring methods, and training details to become an approved ABGA judge, plus upcoming training and important updates!

An indoor Boer goat show where several people are handling Boer goats. Two livestock judges in maroon jackets and cowboy hats stand in the foreground, observing and judging the event. A colorful banner and seated spectators are visible in the background.
A Boer goat show scene with three ABGA judges in maroon blazers and khaki pants on the left, one wearing a cowboy hat. On the right, an exhibitor in a red shirt and khaki shorts holds a goat by its collar. The ground is covered with wood shavings, and banners with sponsors' logos are visible in the background.

Effective January 1, 2009 all ABGA certified Judges must be an active ABGA member to judge ABGA Sanctioned shows or perform inspections.


Applicant must be at least 21 years of age to participate.


A $50 non-refundable fee is due at submission. (Credit cards are accepted at the end of this application). If selected, an additional $350 will be due at least 30 days prior to the Judges Certification Program. ABGA will send an invoice for the additional $350 fee. No refunds will be issued.

2025 Judges Certification Program


📍 Location: Stillwater, OK  

🗓️ Dates: October 24-26, 2025 

🏆 Trainer Judges Team: Josh Taylor, Bailey Bergherm, Randall White, Terry Burks, Justin Burns (alternate).

We appreciate your interest in becoming an ABGA Certified Judge. Applications are now closed, and we are currently reviewing submissions. If you are one of the 20 applicants selected to participate, you will be contacted directly.

Stay tuned — and thank you for your commitment to excellence in the show ring.


The ABGA Judges Certification Program can only accommodate 20 judge candidates during the course.

Selected candidates will be contacted prior to the program.


Applications are due by August 15, 2025, 11:59:59 PM CT.



View Rules & Methods



Judges Certification

We appreciate your interest in becoming an ABGA Certified Judge. Applications are now closed, and we are currently reviewing submissions. If you are one of the 20 applicants selected to participate, you will be contacted directly.

Stay tuned, and thank you for your commitment to excellence in the show ring.

Judges Certification News & Updates

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Jul 29, 2025

Judges Certification Applications Now Open
Are you ready to take the next step toward becoming an ABGA Certified Judge? The application for the 2025 Judges Certification is open! Only 20 applicants will be accepted, so don’t miss your chance. Applications will be due by August 15.
Read More

Mar 24, 2025

Judges Certification Training: In conjunction with the Area 2 Regional Show
Join the inaugural Judges Certification Training in Des Moines, IA, April 26-27, led by certified judges Josh Taylor and Bailey Bergherm.
Read More
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