Traveling With Your Horse: Coggins Test and Interstate Requirements

Traveling with your horse - whether for shows, breeding, training, or relocation - requires more than just a trailer and destination. To protect equine health and comply with state and federal regulations, horse owners must meet specific testing and documentation requirements before crossing state lines. Understanding these requirements ahead of time can help you avoid delays, fines, or being turned away at checkpoints. At Chaparral Veterinary Medical Center, we work closely with horse owners to ensure safe, compliant travel and stress-free preparation.

What Is a Coggins Test?

The Coggins test is a blood test used to detect Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA), a serious viral disease that affects horses, donkeys, and mules. EIA has no cure, and infected horses can become lifelong carriers capable of spreading the disease to others. Because of this risk, most states and equine facilities require proof of a negative Coggins test before allowing horses to travel, compete, or be boarded.

Why the Coggins Test Matters

• Protects the equine population from a contagious, incurable disease

• Required for interstate travel in nearly all U.S. states

• Often required for shows, sales, boarding facilities, and events

Most Coggins tests are valid for 12 months, but some states or venues may require a more recent test (such as within 6 months).

Interstate Travel Requirements for Horses

When traveling across state lines, a Coggins test alone is usually not enough. Most states require additional documentation to confirm your horse is healthy and free from contagious diseases.

While requirements vary by destination, most states require:

• A negative Coggins test

• A Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), also known as a health certificate

• Compliance with destination-specific vaccination or testing rules

A CVI is issued by a licensed veterinarian after examining your horse and confirms that your horse is healthy at the time of travel. In most cases, a CVI is valid for 30 days, though some states allow shorter or longer timeframes.

Planning Ahead: Timing Is Everything

One of the most common travel mistakes horse owners make is waiting too long to schedule testing and paperwork. Blood test results and health certificates take time to process, and requirements can vary depending on where you’re traveling.

To avoid last-minute issues:

• Schedule Coggins testing well in advance of your trip

• Confirm entry requirements for your destination state

• Keep both digital and printed copies of all paperwork during travel

If you’re attending a show or event, check their specific entry rules, as they may have stricter requirements than the state itself.

How Your Veterinarian Can Help

A veterinarian plays a critical role in preparing your horse for travel. Beyond paperwork, your vet can:

• Perform a thorough health exam

• Identify any concerns that could affect travel

• Advise on vaccinations or biosecurity precautions

• Ensure paperwork meets destination requirements

Working with a trusted veterinary team helps minimize risk and ensures compliance with all regulations.

Plan Ahead for Your Horse’s Next Trip

Traveling with your horse requires careful planning, proper testing, and accurate documentation. A valid Coggins test and a current health certificate are essential for interstate travel and help protect the health of horses nationwide. Our team is here to help you navigate interstate requirements and ensure your horse is ready for safe, confident travel.