Always check before you go
Requirements are set by each state and can change quickly, especially during a disease outbreak. Before every trip, ask your veterinarian and check the entry rules for every state you will pass through, not only your destination. The state veterinarian's office for each state is the final word.
Negative Coggins test
A Coggins test checks your horse's blood for equine infectious anemia (EIA), a contagious disease with no cure. Your vet draws blood and sends it to an approved lab, and you get back a certificate showing a negative result.
- How long it is good for: most states want a negative test from within the last 12 months. Some states or events ask for a more recent one, so check.
- Plan ahead: lab results can take several days, so do not leave this to the last week.
- Beyond state lines: many shows, boarding barns and layover hosts ask for a current Coggins even for in-state stays.
Health certificate (CVI)
A Certificate of Veterinary Inspection, usually called a health certificate, shows that a USDA-accredited veterinarian examined your horse recently and found no signs of contagious disease. It is generally required to move a horse from one state to another.
- How long it is good for: commonly 30 days, for the trip listed on it. During outbreaks some states shorten that window to as little as 7 to 14 days.
- What is on it: your horse's description, the Coggins result, and the origin and destination addresses. Some states also require an entry permit number, which your vet can help you get.
- Equine passports: some states accept a six-month equine passport for travel between participating states. Ask your vet whether it covers your route.
Brand inspection
Many western states use brand inspections to prove ownership when horses move, even horses without a brand. If you are leaving one of these states, you may need an inspection before you go. States that use brand inspections for horses include Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.
- The rules of the state you are leaving usually decide whether you need one.
- Some states offer a yearly or lifetime travel permit for horses that travel often, so you do not need a new inspection every trip.
- Contact that state's brand or livestock board to schedule an inspection or ask about a permit.
Other papers worth carrying
- Proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale or registration papers
- Vaccination records
- Your vet's name and number, plus a vet near each stop
- Booking confirmations for your layovers and destination
- Emergency contacts, including someone who can make decisions about your horse if you cannot
Keep it organized
Put the originals in one waterproof folder that lives in the truck cab, not the trailer, so you can hand them over quickly at a checkpoint or check-in. Keep photos of every document on your phone too, and a second set of copies somewhere else in the truck. Many vets can also issue electronic certificates you can pull up on your phone.
Your layover hosts will usually ask for the Coggins and health certificate at check-in, so keep them where you can reach them at every stop.
Sources and further reading. This guide is general information, not veterinary or legal advice. Talk with your veterinarian and check state requirements before you travel.
- Utah State University Extension: Intrastate and interstate travel requirements for horses
- US Equestrian: Interstate travel for horses
- Penn State Extension: Understanding certificates of veterinary inspection
- Montana State University Extension: Montana equine travel checklist
- South Dakota Brand Board: Brand laws for horse camps and trail riders
