Technical inspection and roadworthiness for horse trailers in Poland

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I. Technical inspection and roadworthiness

Technical Inspection

Horse trailers in Poland must have a valid periodic technical inspection and meet all technical requirements, including:

• brakes
• suspension
• coupling system
• overall structural condition

Any serious defect may result in:

• withdrawal of the registration certificate
• a driving ban until the issue is fixed

II. Weight of the transported horse

Polish road traffic law does not specify animal weight limits directly, but:

• the total weight of the trailer, horses, and equipment must not exceed the MAM stated in the registration documents
• overloading is a traffic offence and may result in penalties, vehicle immobilisation, and insurance consequences

🐎 In practice, an average horse weighs 500–600 kg or more, which must be carefully considered when calculating the permitted load.

III. Animal transport regulations

In addition to traffic law, animal welfare and veterinary regulations apply:

• horses must be transported in conditions that ensure their safety and wellbeing
• the trailer must be suitable for animal transport
• longer journeys may require additional obligations (such as rest periods and documentation)

Failure to comply may result in administrative or criminal liability.

✅ Summary of two publications

To legally tow a horse trailer in Poland, you must:

• hold the appropriate driving license category
• use a roadworthy vehicle and trailer with valid inspections
• comply with weight limits
• follow animal welfare and transport regulations

Reminder: as your lawyer in Poland, I can assist by drafting a bespoke agreement for leasing a horse, as well as for its purchase or sale