Equine Transport Qualifications

Individuals must achieve the necessary qualification by the end of April 2008. Failure to do so could result in a fine and/or prosecution.

Does it Apply to Me ?

All areas of the horse industry will be affected. The new law covers all journeys over 65km that are ‘in connection with an 'economic activity’ - This is defined by Defra as ‘transport as part of business or commercial activity which aims at achieving financial gain, whether direct or indirect, for any person or company involved in transport’.

This can be confusing whether the term economic activity applies to you and so the BGA advises that if you are in any doubt you should contact Defra directly. However here are some questions to help you to decide if it does affect you:

Do I need a Certificate of Competence? CLICK HERE

Defra Guidance Notes - CLICK HERE

There are two types of qualification.

You must decide which of the two qualifications you wish to take :

Certificate in Equine Transport (CET)/Short Journeys
This is designed for those transporting horses on journeys over 65 km but not exceeding eight hours. You will sit a short test either online or paper based.

Advanced Certificate in Equine Transport (ACET) Long Journeys
This is designed for those transporting horses for journeys over 65km and exceeding eight hours. You will sit one external test and be practically assessed on your horse handling and/or driving skills according to the options you have selected.

What do I have to do?

These awarding bodies have developed the qualification. Each will have a selection of training providers who you will be able to take the test with.

	CLICK HERE for more information
	CLICK HERE for more information

Haddon Training - the easy route....

Haddon Training is a BHEST approved centre and is a BGA Associate.

Haddon have offered BGA members a special 10% discount for taking the Qualification through them - leading to a possible saving of £14.00. Catherston Stud and Team Fredericks have already taken their qualifications via Haddon.

Call 01672 519977 and ask for Emma or CLICK HERE

ALSO ... Animal Transporter Authorisation

A business or individual transporters must hold a' Transporter Authorisation'. This is free and is valid for 5 years.

To apply for an authorisation form you must contact Animal Health: 0845 603 8395

To successfully obtain one you must be able to demonstrate that you have no record of a serious animal welfare conviction or Home Office Simple Caution in the 3 years preceding the date of your application.

Frequently asked Questions

Q. Do I have to take this qualification if I am transporting my own horse to a competition?
A. Anyone over the age of 16 can sit these qualifications. However, they are only required under legislation for those transporting horses in connection with economic activity.

Q. Do I have to undergo training to take these qualifications?
A. Training is not mandatory and if you are experienced in travelling horses you may not feel you require any training prior to assessment, but it is recommended that you study the workbook to ensure your knowledge is current. You should discuss your experience and any likely training requirements with your Centre on registration.

Q. If I decided to undergo training to complement my existing skills, who do I approach?
A. Your Centre can assist you with any training requirement.

Q. I am not confident at using a computer. Can I take a paper based test?
A. Yes, your Centre can arrange this for you.

Q. I would prefer to take a test using a computer. Can this be arranged?
A. Yes, your Centre can arrange this for you.

Q. I have some difficulty reading. Can I have help?
A. Yes, your Centre can arrange this for you. A reader/writer can be made available. However, they can only read the question, or write down the answer you dictate and cannot help with any explanations.

Q. If I fail the test, can I take it again?
A. Yes, tests can be taken again after a period of 28 days.