How to get an NPI number

Applying is free and done online at NPPES. Most people finish the form in about 20 minutes.

Before you start

Have these ready:

  • Your Social Security number (or ITIN) and date of birth, for an individual NPI
  • Your EIN and the authorized official's details, for an organization NPI
  • Your practice address and mailing address (a P.O. box is not allowed as the practice location)
  • Your state license number, if your profession is licensed
  • The taxonomy code for your provider type. You can look up taxonomy codes here.

Step by step

  1. Go to NPPES and create an account in the CMS Identity & Access Management system (I&A). The same login is used for PECOS later.
  2. Sign in to NPPES and choose to apply for a new NPI for yourself (individual) or for an organization.
  3. Fill in your identity, addresses, taxonomy codes and licenses. Mark one taxonomy as primary.
  4. Check the contact person details. CMS will send the NPI notice there.
  5. Submit. You get an email when the NPI is issued.

Online applications are usually processed within a few days to two weeks. If CMS needs more information it will email the contact person. Paper applications on form CMS-10114 take longer.

After you get it

Check your record on the NPI lookup to make sure it shows correctly. If you will bill Medicare, enroll in PECOS next. Keep your NPPES record up to date. Providers are required to report changes within 30 days.

Questions

How long does it take to get an NPI?
Online applications are often processed in a few days and usually within two weeks. Paper applications can take several weeks.
Can a student get an NPI?
Yes. Students in health care programs can apply, using the student taxonomy code for their field.
Should I pay a company to get my NPI?
There is no need. The application is free and simple, and you have to give your SSN to whoever fills it in.

More guides