Medicare Number Validation
Validate Australian Medicare card numbers using the official checksum algorithm
9-digit card number
1 digit
1 digit
Medicare Card Number Structure
| Component | Digits | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Medicare Number | 9 digits | The main card number (8-digit identifier + 1-digit checksum). First digit should be 2-6. |
| Issue Number | 1 digit | Indicates how many times the card has been issued |
| Individual Reference Number (IRN) | 1 digit | Appears on the left of the cardholder's name on the Medicare card |
The IRN is not always considered part of the card number, but it is essential that it be included on Medicare claim forms.
Testing Examples
Use these example numbers to test the validation. These are not real Medicare numbers.
Where to Find Each Component on Your Card
Medicare Number
The 9-digit Medicare number is the main number displayed on your card. It consists of an 8-digit identifier and a 1-digit checksum used to verify the number is valid.
Expiry Date
The expiry date indicates when your Medicare card needs to be renewed. Located in the bottom right area of your card, displayed in MM/YYYY format.
Issue Number
The issue number is a single digit that appears after your Medicare number. It indicates how many times your card has been issued or replaced.
Individual Reference Number (IRN)
The IRN is a single digit that appears to the left of each person's name on the card. It distinguishes between multiple people listed on the same Medicare card.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many digits is an Australian Medicare number?
An Australian Medicare card displays 11 digits in total. This consists of a 9-digit Medicare number (8-digit identifier plus 1-digit checksum), a 1-digit issue number, and a 1-digit Individual Reference Number (IRN). The Medicare number is typically displayed in the format: 1234 56789 0/1.What is the IRN on a Medicare card?
The IRN (Individual Reference Number) is a single digit that appears to the left of each person's name on a Medicare card. It identifies which family member on the card is receiving treatment or claiming benefits. For example, if you're listed as '1' on the card, your IRN is 1. The IRN must be included when making Medicare claims.What is the issue number on a Medicare card?
The issue number is a single digit that appears after the 9-digit Medicare number. It indicates how many times your Medicare card has been issued or replaced. Each time you receive a new card (due to expiry, loss, or adding/removing family members), the issue number increases by one.What does the first digit of a Medicare number mean?
The first digit of an Australian Medicare number must be between 2 and 6. This digit indicates the state or territory where the Medicare card was originally issued: 2 for NSW, 3 for VIC, 4 for QLD, 5 for SA, and 6 for WA, TAS, NT, and ACT. Numbers starting with 0, 1, 7, 8, or 9 are invalid.How do I validate a Medicare number?
A Medicare number can be validated using a checksum algorithm. The first 8 digits are multiplied by weights (1, 3, 7, 9, 1, 3, 7, 9) and summed. The checksum (9th digit) should equal the sum modulo 10. Additionally, the first digit must be between 2-6. Our free tool above performs this validation automatically.Where do I find my Medicare number?
Your Medicare number is printed on the front of your green Medicare card. It's the 10-digit number displayed prominently in the format 1234 56789 0. You can also find your Medicare number in your myGov account by linking to Medicare, or by calling Services Australia on 132 011.When does a Medicare card expire?
Medicare cards in Australia typically expire every 5 years. The expiry date is printed on the front of the card in MM/YYYY format. You'll receive a new card automatically before your current one expires. If you need a replacement sooner, you can request one through myGov or by contacting Services Australia.Can I use an expired Medicare card?
An expired Medicare card can sometimes still be used for claiming benefits if your Medicare eligibility is still valid, as the card number remains the same. However, healthcare providers may request a valid card. It's best to update your card through myGov or Services Australia to avoid issues.How do I get a replacement Medicare card?
You can get a replacement Medicare card through several methods: online via your myGov account linked to Medicare, using the Express Plus Medicare app, calling Services Australia on 132 011, or visiting a Services Australia centre. Replacement cards are free and typically arrive within 14 days.Do I need to include the IRN when filling out medical forms?
Yes, you should always include your IRN (Individual Reference Number) when filling out Medicare claim forms or providing your Medicare details to healthcare providers. The IRN identifies you specifically on the card, which is essential for processing claims correctly when multiple family members share the same Medicare card.What are Medicare Provider and Prescriber Numbers?
Medicare Provider and Prescriber Numbers are unique identifiers issued to healthcare professionals in Australia. A Provider Number allows doctors, specialists, and allied health practitioners to bill patients through the Medicare Benefits Scheme (MBS). A Prescriber Number enables doctors to prescribe medications subsidised under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). These numbers are different from the Medicare card number that patients use. Learn more about how to obtain a Medicare Provider Number or read our guide on Medicare Provider and Prescriber Numbers.Open Source Methodology
The validation algorithm used on this page is available as a TypeScript snippet. The checksum algorithm follows the official Medicare specification using weighted digits (1, 3, 7, 9, 1, 3, 7, 9).