North Dakota Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale Overview
North Dakota is a brand inspection state with mandatory inspections for cattle and horses. The North Dakota Stockmen's Association administers the brand inspection program under contract with the state. North Dakota Century Code Chapter 36 governs livestock brands, inspections, and transfers. A brand inspection certificate and bill of sale together document legal ownership transfer.
5%
Sales tax
Yes
Brand inspection
Required
Health certificate
Required
Coggins test
North Dakota Livestock Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know for a smooth horse or livestock transaction in North Dakota:
Important: North Dakota Health Documentation
North Dakota 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 North Dakota Horse Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your North Dakota horse or livestock bill of sale.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, farm or ranch name (if applicable), North Dakota 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, North Dakota 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.
North Dakota Brand Inspection Requirements
North Dakota requires brand inspections for cattle and horses at change of ownership and before transport out of state. The North Dakota Stockmen's Association operates the brand inspection program. Brand registration is required for livestock owners and must be renewed every 10 years. Inspections verify ownership, check registered brands, and issue official certificates. The Stockmen's Association also has a livestock theft investigation unit.
North Dakota Health & Veterinary Requirements
North Dakota 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. North Dakota has import permit requirements for livestock. The state monitors for bovine tuberculosis and brucellosis and has specific testing requirements for cattle from states with known disease issues. North Dakota participates in the National Animal Identification System.
North Dakota Livestock Fees & Taxes
Here's a breakdown of the typical costs associated with a horse or livestock transaction in North Dakota:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| Brand Inspection (per head) | $6 - $12 |
| Coggins Test | $20 - $40 |
| Health Certificate (CVI) | $25 - $60 |
| Brand Registration (10 years) | $60 |
| State Sales Tax | 5% (agricultural exemptions may apply) |
Sample North Dakota Horse Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our North Dakota-specific horse bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required for North Dakota livestock transactions.
STATE OF NORTH DAKOTA
HORSE / LIVESTOCK BILL OF SALE
Equine & Livestock Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [North Dakota Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [North Dakota Address]
ANIMAL DESCRIPTION
Species: [Species] Breed: [Breed]
Registered Name: [Name]
Reg. #: [Number] Sex: [Sex]
Coggins Date: [Date] Result: [Negative]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
North Dakota Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about North Dakota horse and livestock bills of sale, health requirements, and transfer regulations.
Official North Dakota Resources
Use these official state resources to verify requirements, check import regulations, and access government information for your North Dakota livestock transaction.
North Dakota Department of Agriculture
Livestock regulations and agricultural services
North Dakota 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 North Dakota Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for North Dakota? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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Create Your North Dakota Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale
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