A D-U-N-S number is a unique nine-digit identification number assigned to a business or organization by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B), a leading business information provider. D-U-N-S stands for “Data Universal Numbering System”.
The D-U-N-S number is used as a standard business identifier by many companies and government agencies around the world. It is used to track the creditworthiness and reliability of a business, as well as to verify its existence and legal status.
For companies that want to develop apps for Apple devices, a D-U-N-S number is required for enrollment in the Apple Developer Program. This is because Apple uses the D-U-N-S number to verify the identity and legal status of the business or organization.
Requesting a D-U-N-S Number
D&B may have already assigned your organization a free D-U-N-S Number. Before enrolling, use the D-U-N-S Number look up tool to see if you have one. If your company is not listed, you’ll have the option to submit your information to Dun & Bradstreet for a free D-U-N-S Number.
You will be asked for the following information when requesting a D-U-N-S Number using the D-U-N-S Number look up tool:
- Legal entity name
- Headquarters address
- Mailing address
- Your work contact information
As part of their verification process, a D&B representative may contact you directly for more information (e.g., type of business, number of employees). Please have your business registration documents ready.
Receiving and Managing Your D-U-N-S Number
After requesting a D-U-N-S Number, please allow up to 5 business days to receive your number from D&B. Expediting your D-U-N-S Number creation process will not shorten this waiting period. If your application has taken longer than two weeks to process, please email D&B.
Once you receive your D-U-N-S Number, please allow up to 2 business days for Apple to receive your information from D&B. After this period, you may enroll as a company/organization in the Apple Developer Program.
To update your D&B profile, please email D&B. It takes up to 2 business days for D&B to provide updated information to Apple.