A EUROPE-wide campaign is calling for fairer and safer horse transport rules and Irish horse owners are being urged to lend their support.

Under current EU legislation, drivers need a C1 or HGV licence to operate a horse transport vehicle weighing more than 3.5 tonnes, even if it’s a small, purpose-built horsebox. For many amateur and professional riders, this outdated rule means being forced to drive heavy, expensive trucks or hire transporters, adding unnecessary cost, complexity and inconvenience.

The petition, launched on Open Petition Europe by Swedish equestrian Elke Frinta of Kvarnby Hästrehab and Jägersro Hästshop, proposes a practical update:

  • Allow horse transport vehicles up to 4.25 tonnes to be driven with a standard B-licence, provided the vehicle is specifically designed for horses and meets all current safety and animal welfare standards.

    • Easier for owners

    Supporters of the campaign argue that this change would improve:

    • Horse welfare, by making it easier for owners to transport their horses safely and locally.
    • Reduce long-distance travel, as smaller stables and private owners could manage their own journeys.
    • Make equestrian sport more accessible, particularly for women, young riders, and smaller operations, who find current licence requirements too restrictive or expensive.

    • For Irish horse owners, the issue is particularly relevant. Many modern two-horse lorries, commonly used by show jumpers, eventers, breeders, and pony club families, exceed the 3.5-tonne limit once loaded with horses, tack and safety equipment.

    Even though these vehicles are compact and designed for safe, short-distance travel, they still require drivers to hold a C1 licence, which involves significant time and expense to obtain.

    With Irish riders regularly transporting horses to events across the country, the UK, and mainland Europe, campaigners say that the rule creates unnecessary barriers for smaller yards and young competitors.

    “Today’s licensing rules are outdated. They make safe horse transport more difficult, more expensive, and less accessible,” says petition organiser Elke Frinta. “We’re asking for a small, sensible change that reflects modern vehicles and real-life horse care needs.”

    The petition must gather one million signatures from at least seven EU countries for the European Commission to officially consider the proposal. Irish equestrians are invited to join the call for change and help make horse transport safer, fairer, and more accessible across Europe. Sign and share the petition by scanning the QR code.