Livestock Driver Certificate of Competence

Anyone involved in moving livestock by road should be aware that new European derived rules were introduced in January 2008.  These rules may affect anyone hauling their own stock as well as professional hauliers.

From 5th January 2008 transporters of livestock on a journey of over 65km (40 miles) will need to hold a Certificate of Competence issued by an independent body.  It is important to note that the 65km (40 miles) is the actual distance travelled and not distance as the crow flies. The Certificate of Competence is like a driving licence, and is valid for life.

The Certificate of Competence for journeys of over 65km (40 miles) and under 8 hours can be obtained by sitting and passing a multiple choice test. 

Those drivers hauling livestock on a journey of over 8 hours are required to take the Long Journey Test.  For this, in addition to a multiple choice test, there is a practical assessment of their competence which includes driving and animal handling skills.

The full EU Livestock Transport regulations can be found on the DEFRA website here.


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For further information please contact:

SFQC