What it is and who needs it
A D-U-N-S number is a nine-digit company identifier issued by Dun & Bradstreet. Apple requires one to enroll an organization in the Apple Developer Program.
Google requires one too. Its Play Console help says: "To create a developer account for an organization, you must have a D-U-N-S number." The same number works for both.
How to get one for free
Apple's lookup tool searches Dun & Bradstreet's records for your company. You need to sign in with an Apple Account to use it. If your company isn't listed, Apple says you'll "have the option to submit your information to Dun & Bradstreet for a free D-U-N-S Number".
Use your company's legal name and registered address. Apple uses the D-U-N-S record to verify your organization when you enroll.
How long it takes
The sources give different figures:
- Apple: allow up to 5 business days to receive your number from D&B, then up to 2 business days for Apple to receive your information.
- Dun & Bradstreet: "Normal processing can take up to 30 business days." D&B also sells an expedited service that it says takes about eight business days.
- Google: getting a D-U-N-S number "can take up to 30 days".
If your launch date matters, plan around the 30-day figure and make this the first thing you start.
Sources
All checked on 2026-09-25. Apple and Google change these pages, so check them before you rely on a number.