[RPG] Does a controlled mount share its rider’s turn

dnd-5einitiativemountmounted-combat

From "Controlling a Mount" on p.198 of the Player's Handbook:

The initiative of a controlled mount changes to match yours when you mount it. It moves as you direct it, and it has only three action options; Dash, Disengage, and Dodge. A controlled mount can move and act even on the turn that you mount it.

Does this mean that the rider and mount share a single turn?

Best Answer

Yes

The key is in the passage you quote:

It moves as you direct it, ...

"... as you direct it ..." includes both spacial and temporal directions - "move here now, move there later, move back here after that" only, you know, using reins and things instead of words.

You direct the movement of the mount and can take your action and possible bonus action at any time during that movement. The mount can also take its action (limited to Dash, Disengage and Dodge) and possible bonus action at any time during that movement. Note that the limitation on actions does not affect bonus actions.

If you are lucky enough to have a mount with lair or legendary actions (go the dragon rider!) they happen when they otherwise would.