No, I believe in a number of circumstances it is possible to get certificates.

For example a female ibera I have who had certs issued last year. Her owner died and his parents asked some of their tortoise keeping friends to sell the tortoise on their behalf. She had no papers and no one knew quite where she came from and is of a grand age. After discussion with DEFRA they were able to obtain a commercial certificate for her, meaning they could sell her.

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I think DEFRA just hates me then I've asked twice this year for certs and have both times been flat out told no chance. But it certainly doesn't hurt to ask!

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No internet at home for a few weeks, may take a while to respond. Should be back to normal in Sept.

You should ask the owner to provide a covering letter with the tortoise explaining how long she has owned it for and confirming that she is gifting this to you. Under these circumstances, D.E.F.R.A. may issue a breeders certificate for it, which means that although this particular animal may never be sold, any offspring from it can be registered and if necessary sold in the usual way.
You will probably have to take this tortoise to a vet for official confirmation of species, and have it microchipped prior to the issuing of such a certificate.

Thats briliant thank you all for your help when she gets in touch i'll ask her to do a letter etc. Unfortunately i dont know when she will get rid of tort so will let you know what happens when it does!

Thanks again you've all been great!

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