Tennessee Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale Overview
Tennessee regulates livestock through the Tennessee Department of Agriculture. The state has a significant equine industry, particularly Tennessee Walking Horses, which originated in the state. Tennessee requires Coggins testing for equine transactions and has active livestock health enforcement. The state also has regulations specific to Tennessee Walking Horses regarding the Horse Protection Act. A written bill of sale is standard for all livestock transactions.
7%
Sales tax
No
Brand inspection
Required
Health certificate
Required
Coggins test
Tennessee Livestock Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know for a smooth horse or livestock transaction in Tennessee:
Important: Tennessee Health Documentation
Tennessee 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 Tennessee Horse Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Tennessee horse or livestock bill of sale.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, farm or ranch name (if applicable), Tennessee 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, Tennessee 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.
Tennessee Brand Inspection Requirements
Tennessee does not have a brand inspection requirement or state brand board. Livestock ownership is documented through bills of sale, breed registration papers, and individual identification methods. Tennessee Walking Horse registration papers are particularly important for documenting the pedigree and ownership of this iconic breed.
Tennessee Health & Veterinary Requirements
Tennessee requires a negative Coggins test within 12 months for equine change of ownership, shows, sales, and events. Interstate imports require a CVI issued within 30 days and negative Coggins. Tennessee requires entry permits for livestock entering the state. The state monitors for diseases common in the southeastern United States and has specific cattle requirements for brucellosis and tuberculosis.
Tennessee Livestock Fees & Taxes
Here's a breakdown of the typical costs associated with a horse or livestock transaction in Tennessee:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| Coggins Test | $20 - $40 |
| Health Certificate (CVI) | $25 - $60 |
| State Sales Tax | 7% (plus local taxes up to 2.75% additional) |
| Entry Permit | No fee |
| Brand Inspection | Not required |
Sample Tennessee Horse Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Tennessee-specific horse bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required for Tennessee livestock transactions.
STATE OF TENNESSEE
HORSE / LIVESTOCK BILL OF SALE
Equine & Livestock Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Tennessee Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Tennessee Address]
ANIMAL DESCRIPTION
Species: [Species] Breed: [Breed]
Registered Name: [Name]
Reg. #: [Number] Sex: [Sex]
Coggins Date: [Date] Result: [Negative]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Tennessee Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Tennessee horse and livestock bills of sale, health requirements, and transfer regulations.
Official Tennessee Resources
Use these official state resources to verify requirements, check import regulations, and access government information for your Tennessee livestock transaction.
Tennessee Department of Agriculture
Livestock regulations and agricultural services
Tennessee 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 Tennessee Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for Tennessee? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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Create Your Tennessee Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale
Answer a few questions and download your Tennessee-compliant document in minutes. Includes Coggins test and health certificate fields.
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