The Register of Farriers

The Farriers Registration Council (FRC) is a statutory body set up in 1975 to maintain a Register of Farriers and to determine who is qualified to register.

Registered Farriers are regulated by the FRC and are expected to abide by the Code of Professional Conduct.

There are about 2,900 Registered Farriers who are recognised by the FRC as being qualified either by examination and/or training and/or experience to carry out work safely and competently. A few others are registered by virtue of holding an equivalent Army qualification, an equivalent overseas qualification, or recognised European experience, that has been officially approved by the FRC.

Only Registered Farriers, Enrolled Farriery Apprentices or persons undergoing Council approved courses, Veterinary Surgeons or trainee Veterinary Surgeons working under supervision and persons giving first aid in an emergency situation to a horse may practice farriery legally. For others to do so is a criminal offence which can result in a fine of up to £1,000, legal costs of a similar magnitude and a criminal record.




Registered Details:

The Register of Farriers is a public document; particulars given on the Find a Farrier page provide details of Registered Farriers sorted by post code, surname or qualification and can be accessed here free of charge.



Parts of the Register:

The Register is divided into Part 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 – only Parts 1 and 5 are open to new registrants.

Farriers in Parts 1, 2, 4 and 5 may carry out farriery as a business.

Farriers in Part 3 may only carry out farriery on their own and other horses but not for trade or reward.

Persons listed in Part 5 are farriers established in other areas of the EEA who are entitled to provide a temporary and occasional service within Great Britain under the terms of EC Directive 2005/36 concerning the Mutual Recognition of Professional Qualifications. Their registration status must be renewed on an annual basis.