Any Thoroughbred that has not been previously lip tattooed and is making its first lifetime start in a recognized pari-mutuel race, must have the TRPB Digital Tattoo in order to be correctly identified in the paddock and permitted to race.

The transition to the TRPB Digital Tattoo follows the recent requirement by The Jockey Club for a horse to be microchipped as part of the registration process. All foals from 2017 onward have a listed microchip on their Jockey Club papers.

The Association of Racing Commissioners International (ARCI) passed a model rule regarding Digital Tattoos. 

The model rule states, effective January 1, 2020, the racing secretary shall ensure that the registration certificates for all Thoroughbred horses that were foaled in 2018 or thereafter have a Digital Tattoo prior to entry in a race.

Read the full TRPB Press Release January 7, 2020 Horse Identity established through the TRPB Digital Tattoo

Read the fact sheet on digital tattoos at FAQs on Digital Tattoos

More information may be found at Thoroughbred Racing Protective Bureau