State Brand Inspector

• When ownership changes in any manner.
• When leaving the state of Idaho.
• When going to slaughter.

NOTES:

• For the purpose of leaving the state or going to slaughter, a brand inspection is good for 96 hours.
• All livestock must be brand inspected whether the animal is actually branded or not. An inspection establishes “Prima Facie” evidence of ownership.
• Brand inspections are not required on sheep.

Yes, if the bill of sale is valid and current.

A valid bill of sale must include:

• Date of the sale.
• A complete description of livestock sold.
• Name of the purchaser.
• Signature of the seller.

NOTE: A bill of sale does not replace a brand inspection, which must be done within 10 days of the sale. 

• Annual (or “seasonal”) brand inspections are good for 12 months. Certificates are designed to allow livestock owners to travel in/out of Idaho. Idaho has reciprocal agreements with most neighboring states, except Montana and Wyoming.
• Cost: $8.27

 NOTE: An annual or seasonal brand inspection may not be used for slaughter, sale, or trade.

• Ownership and transportation certificates, also known as “Lifetime” certificates, are only issued for horses, mules, or asses.
• Remain valid as long as the animal remains within the ownership of the person to whom the certificate was issued.
• May be used for nationwide travel (including Montana), slaughter, sale, or trade.
• A certificate is non-transferable.
• Cost: $53.00

Proof of ownership which can be determined in several ways:

• Your recorded brand on the animal/brand card.
• Valid and current bill of sale.
• Idaho brand inspection or another state’s brand inspection.
• Purebred registration papers or possibly health papers.
• Lip tattoos or other permanent markings are not acceptable for brand recording but may be used for proof of ownership purposes.

• Call your District Brand Inspector.
• State Brand Inspector’s Office at 208-884-7070 or 800-772-8442.
• For the best service, please provide adequate notice a brand inspection is needed. There is a 24-hour minimum notice required.

NOTE: Confirm your proof of ownership. if unsure, ask when arranging an appointment. If you plan to use a bill of sale, confirm it is valid and current.

• Proof of ownership. (Basically, the same information required to obtain a brand inspection.)

NOTE: If traveling within Idaho with livestock that are not yours, you must possess a written permit completed by the owner giving a description of the livestock and their signature. Written Permits are available, at no charge, from the State Brand Inspector’s office in Meridian.

See Idaho Code:

• 25-214A
• 25-221
• 40-511