Horse Transportation Laws

In the 1950s, with the advent of automobiles that were capable of hauling horses over long distances, it became more important than ever to have transportation laws to protect horses and the general public, and to prevent the spread of disease.

  1. License Requirements

    • If the combined weight of the truck and trailer is equal to or greater than 26,001 lbs. and the truck has a gross vehicle weight of more than 10,000 lbs. you must obtain a commercial driver's license.

    Required by All States

    • Proof of a negative coggins (Equine Infectious Anemia) is mandatory. Results are valid for six to 12 months, depending on the state.

    Required by Some States

    • Brand inspections are required in some of the western states, and may be necessary for travel within the states.
      State travel permits, proof of rabies vaccination and the horse's temperature on the health certificate are required in some states.

    Warning

    • State requirements change throughout the year. Call the Voice Response Service of the Center for Epidemiology and Animal Health at (800) 545-8732 for current information.

    Considerations

    • If you are transporting a horse several times a year in the western states, it may be more economical to purchase an annual or lifetime brand inspection.