Alabama Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale Overview
Alabama does not have a mandatory state-issued livestock bill of sale form, but a written bill of sale is strongly recommended for all horse and livestock transactions. The Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries oversees livestock health regulations, including requirements for Coggins testing and health certificates. Alabama law requires that all equines have a current negative Coggins test for change of ownership and for entry into any public event, show, or sale. Private treaty sales between farms within Alabama require proof of a negative Coggins but do not require a brand inspection.
4%
Sales tax
No
Brand inspection
Required
Health certificate
Required
Coggins test
Alabama Livestock Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know for a smooth horse or livestock transaction in Alabama:
Important: Alabama Health Documentation
Alabama requires a current negative Coggins test for all equine change of ownership. Ensure your Coggins test is within the required timeframe before completing the sale. For interstate transport, both a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection and negative Coggins are required.
What the Seller Must Provide
- Signed Bill of Sale: Complete bill of sale with animal description, sale price, and both parties' information
- Current Negative Coggins: EIA test within 12 months performed by an accredited veterinarian
- Registration Papers: Signed transfer section on breed registration certificate (if registered)
- Health Records: Vaccination history, deworming schedule, and veterinary records
- Disclosure of Known Issues: Any known health problems, lameness, vices, or behavioral issues
What the Buyer Should Obtain
- Signed Bill of Sale: Original copy with both signatures
- Coggins Test Certificate: Copy of the current negative Coggins report
- Registration Certificate: With signed transfer (if registered animal)
- Health Certificate: If transporting across state lines, CVI within 30 days
How to Fill Out a Alabama Horse Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Alabama horse or livestock bill of sale.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, farm or ranch name (if applicable), Alabama mailing address, phone number, and email. If the seller is a licensed dealer or breeder, include the license or business registration number.
Enter Buyer Information
Include the buyer's full legal name, farm or ranch name, Alabama address, phone number, and email. The buyer's location determines which local tax rates apply to the transaction.
Describe the Animal
Provide a detailed description: species (horse, cattle, goat, etc.), breed, registered name and number (if applicable), sex, age or date of birth, color, height (in hands for horses), weight, and all identifying markings, brands, tattoos, or microchip numbers.
Document Health Status
Record the Coggins test date and result (for equines), health certificate number and date, vaccination history, and deworming schedule. Attach copies of all health documentation to the bill of sale.
State Sale Price and Terms
Enter the agreed purchase price in both numbers and words. Note the payment method and any installment terms. State whether the sale is as-is or includes warranties (soundness, breeding, vice-free, etc.). Disclose any known health issues or behavioral concerns.
Sign and Complete Documentation
Both buyer and seller sign and date the bill of sale. Print two copies. Transfer breed registration papers by signing the transfer section. Ensure Coggins and health certificates are current. Complete any required brand inspections before transport.
Alabama Brand Inspection Requirements
Alabama is not a brand inspection state. There is no state brand board or brand registration program. Livestock ownership is typically established through bills of sale, registration papers, and other ownership documentation. While some ranchers use brands for identification purposes, there is no legal requirement to register or inspect brands in Alabama.
Alabama Health & Veterinary Requirements
Alabama requires a negative Coggins test (EIA test) for all equines at change of ownership, and the test must have been conducted within the previous 12 months. For interstate transport of horses into Alabama, a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) issued within 30 days is required, along with a current negative Coggins. Cattle entering Alabama must meet tuberculosis and brucellosis testing requirements. All livestock entering the state must have an entry permit obtained through the State Veterinarian's office.
Alabama Livestock Fees & Taxes
Here's a breakdown of the typical costs associated with a horse or livestock transaction in Alabama:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| Coggins Test | $20 - $50 (veterinarian sets fee) |
| Health Certificate (CVI) | $25 - $75 (veterinarian sets fee) |
| State Sales Tax | 4% (plus local taxes up to 5% additional) |
| Brand Inspection | Not required |
| Entry Permit | No fee |
Sample Alabama Horse Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Alabama-specific horse bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required for Alabama livestock transactions.
STATE OF ALABAMA
HORSE / LIVESTOCK BILL OF SALE
Equine & Livestock Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Alabama Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Alabama Address]
ANIMAL DESCRIPTION
Species: [Species] Breed: [Breed]
Registered Name: [Name]
Reg. #: [Number] Sex: [Sex]
Coggins Date: [Date] Result: [Negative]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Alabama Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Alabama horse and livestock bills of sale, health requirements, and transfer regulations.
Official Alabama Resources
Use these official state resources to verify requirements, check import regulations, and access government information for your Alabama livestock transaction.
Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries
Livestock regulations and agricultural services
Alabama State Veterinarian
Animal health, Coggins testing, and import requirements
USDA APHIS — Veterinary Services
Federal animal health regulations and accredited veterinarians
USDA — Interstate Livestock Movement
Federal requirements for transporting livestock across state lines
Other Alabama Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for Alabama? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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Alabama ATV Bill of Sale
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Alabama Mobile Home Bill of Sale
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Create Your Alabama Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale
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