Livestock Brand Inspection

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Updated: 3/6/07

Inspection Types

For more information, contact program staff.

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Out of State Movement - (MANDATORY)

 A Brand inspection (to verify ownership) is required prior to the movement of cattle and horses to an out of state destination.

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Change of Ownership Inspections (MANDATORY)

Change of Ownership Inspections are required when the ownership of cattle is transferred to another. Though not required for horses unless leaving the state, it is recommended if the horse is branded.

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Yearly & Lifetime Inspections (OPTIONAL)

For those individuals who repeatedly transport individual livestock out of state (cattle and horses) the Department offers two popular options:

A Yearly Inspection is valid for twelve months from the time of issue.

A Lifetime Inspection is valid until such time as the animal is sold. The new owner of the animal can apply for a new certificate if so desired. At the time of the inspection, you will be given a temporary certificate and a permanent ID card will be mailed to you by the Olympia office.

Both the Yearly and Lifetime certificates allow the livestock owner to transport the animal out of state and back again without having to obtain additional inspections.

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Self Inspection - Cattle only

Self inspection is an alternative to using a third party (WSDA) when a change of ownership inspection is required. This type of inspection is conducted jointly by the buyer and seller with both parties completing their respective part of the certificate.

Self inspection is not recommended for complicated transactions (more than one brand, etc.) and may not be used if the cattle will be moved out of state.

The purchase price of a self inspection certificate includes the inspection fee and the $1.50 per head assessment for the National Beef Promotion and Research Act. For more information about the assessment contact the Washington State Beef Commission at (206) 444-2902 or e-mail wsbc@wabeef.org.

  • Single head certificates (two part) are sold in groups of ten or more. 
    To order see Form AGR 7206.
  • Multiple head certificates are limited to 25 head or less per transaction (sale) and may be purchased by calling 360-902-1855.

  Both forms may also be purchased from your local livestock inspector.

 When cattle that bear brands not recorded to the seller are sold using a self inspection certificate,   additional proof of ownership for the animal must be provided to the buyer. Without additional documentation, the self inspection certificate may not be valid.

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