🔢 Can I get a PPS number in Ireland?

With conditions

Quick answer

Yes — if you can show you need one for a specified public body, and it's free. A PPS number (7 digits plus 1–2 letters) is needed to deal with Revenue, social welfare, public health services, the driving licence/theory test and more. You apply online at MyWelfare.ie with a basic MyGovID account, and if you live on the island of Ireland you must attend an in-person appointment at a PPS Number Allocation Centre. You must prove your identity, address (a document under 3 months old) and your reason for needing a number. Irish citizens born in Ireland no longer need a birth certificate — records are verified automatically — and children born here get a PPS number automatically if the birth is registered within 3 months. There's no fee. In short: yes, with proof you need one — for free.

📋 The rules

Needed for work, welfare, health, licensing etc.
Apply on MyWelfare.ie with a MyGovID
Attend an in-person appointment if you live here
Prove identity, address and reason
There's no fee

🔓 Exceptions

You can't apply before moving to Ireland (limited exceptions e.g. probate)
Children born here get a number automatically with birth registration
Employers can't demand your PPS number when recruiting — only on hiring

⚠️ Penalties & fines

There's no fee to get a PPS number, and it arrives by post after the appointment. Only bodies on the official Register of Users may lawfully request or use it — if unsure, contact Client Identity Services (0818 927 999). You generally can't apply before moving to Ireland; you must be physically here (with limited exceptions, such as being a beneficiary under an Irish will). Old "W" numbers (a shared spouse number ending in W) must be replaced on a spouse's death, divorce or separation. Beware a myth: "any business can demand my PPS number" is false — only registered users may lawfully ask for it; a shop or landlord generally can't. To get one: book a MyWelfare appointment and bring your ID, proof of address and reason.

📎 Official sources

Last verified: 2026-06-20

❓ Frequently asked

What do I need a PPS number for?

A PPS number is needed to access many public services — registering for work and tax with Revenue, claiming social welfare, using public health services, getting a driving licence or sitting the theory test, and more. It's a unique reference number that links you to your records across these State services.

How do I apply for a PPS number?

You apply online through MyWelfare.ie using a basic MyGovID account. If you live on the island of Ireland, you'll then need to attend an in-person appointment at a PPS Number Allocation Centre. You must prove your identity, your address with a recent document, and your reason for needing the number.

Does it cost anything?

No. Getting a PPS number is completely free. Once your application and appointment are complete, your number is sent to you by post. Be wary of any service that offers to get you a PPS number for a fee, as the official process through MyWelfare and the Department of Social Protection costs nothing.

Can my child get a PPS number?

Yes, and usually automatically. A child born in Ireland is issued a PPS number automatically if the birth is registered within three months, with no separate application needed. For children born abroad or not registered in time, you can apply for a number through the normal process on their behalf.

Who can ask for my PPS number?

Only organisations on the official Register of Users — such as Revenue, the Department of Social Protection, the HSE and other specified public bodies — may lawfully request and use your PPS number. A private business, shop or landlord generally can't demand it. If you're unsure, you can check with Client Identity Services.

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