New Mexico Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale Overview
New Mexico is a brand inspection state with comprehensive livestock regulations administered by the New Mexico Livestock Board. Brand inspections are mandatory for all cattle, horses, mules, and asses at change of ownership, transport, or slaughter. The New Mexico Livestock Board has law enforcement authority and operates independently from the Department of Agriculture. New Mexico Statutes Chapter 77 governs livestock brands and inspections.
5.125%
Sales tax
Yes
Brand inspection
Required
Health certificate
Required
Coggins test
New Mexico Livestock Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know for a smooth horse or livestock transaction in New Mexico:
Important: New Mexico Health Documentation
New Mexico 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 New Mexico Horse Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your New Mexico horse or livestock bill of sale.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, farm or ranch name (if applicable), New Mexico 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, New Mexico 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.
New Mexico Brand Inspection Requirements
The New Mexico Livestock Board requires brand inspections for all cattle, horses, mules, and asses at every change of ownership, before transport out of county, and at slaughter. New Mexico has one of the most active livestock law enforcement agencies in the country. Brand registration is required for all livestock owners and must be renewed every 5 years. The Livestock Board employs inspectors and special investigators throughout the state. Failure to obtain an inspection is a criminal offense.
New Mexico Health & Veterinary Requirements
New Mexico requires a negative Coggins test within 12 months for equine change of ownership and events. Interstate imports require a CVI issued within 30 days and negative Coggins. New Mexico has import permit requirements for all livestock. The state has specific cattle requirements and monitors for diseases including bovine tuberculosis and brucellosis. New Mexico also has regulations regarding livestock health near tribal lands.
New Mexico Livestock Fees & Taxes
Here's a breakdown of the typical costs associated with a horse or livestock transaction in New Mexico:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| Brand Inspection (per head) | $13 - $18 |
| Coggins Test | $20 - $45 |
| Health Certificate (CVI) | $25 - $65 |
| Brand Registration (5 years) | $50 |
| Gross Receipts Tax | 5.125% (plus local taxes) |
Sample New Mexico Horse Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our New Mexico-specific horse bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required for New Mexico livestock transactions.
STATE OF NEW MEXICO
HORSE / LIVESTOCK BILL OF SALE
Equine & Livestock Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [New Mexico Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [New Mexico Address]
ANIMAL DESCRIPTION
Species: [Species] Breed: [Breed]
Registered Name: [Name]
Reg. #: [Number] Sex: [Sex]
Coggins Date: [Date] Result: [Negative]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
New Mexico Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about New Mexico horse and livestock bills of sale, health requirements, and transfer regulations.
Official New Mexico Resources
Use these official state resources to verify requirements, check import regulations, and access government information for your New Mexico livestock transaction.
New Mexico Department of Agriculture — Livestock Board
Livestock regulations and agricultural services
New Mexico 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 New Mexico Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for New Mexico? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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Create Your New Mexico Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale
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