What is the Demat Account Number Format?

A demat account number is a unique ID assigned to an investor to hold securities electronically. It helps investors access and manage shares, bonds, mutual funds, and other securities maintained in dematerialised form.

This article explains what a demat account number is, its format, the difference between DP ID and BO ID, and where to find your demat number.

What is a Demat Account Number?

A demat account number is a unique number associated with an investor’s dematerialised account. It identifies the investor’s demat account maintained with a depository through a Depository Participant.

The demat account number format depends on whether the account is maintained with CDSL or NSDL. Investors receive their account details once they open a demat account with a registered broker.

Also Read: What is a Demat Account?

Understanding Demat Account Number Format

Demat account number formats differ between CDSL and NSDL. Knowing the format can help investors identify their account details.

CDSL Demat Account Number Format

CDSL demat account numbers are 16-digit numbers. This number is also known as the Beneficiary Owner Identification Number (BO ID). The first eight digits are the DP ID, and the last eight digits are the unique client ID.

NSDL Demat Account Number Format

NSDL demat accounts have a 16-character alphanumeric account number. It starts with the letters “IN” followed by a 14-digit numeric code.

Example: IN12345678901234

Demat Account Number, DP ID and Client ID: Key Differences

Here is the difference between demat account number, DP ID, and Client ID:

How to Find Your Demat Account Number?

Investors can find their demat account number through several account-related documents and platforms.

• Account Statement:

Check the demat account statement you receive from your broker or Depository Participant for your account identification details.

• Broker Application:

Log in to your broker’s website or mobile application and open the profile, account, or holdings section.

• Welcome Email:

Review the account-opening email or welcome communication sent by the broker after you successfully open the account.

• Contract Note:

Check the account opening documents and Client Master Report provided when the demat account was created.

• Depository Statement:

Review the statement issued by CDSL or NSDL, which contains relevant information about your demat account.

How to Open a Demat Account?

To open a demat account, first, choose a SEBI-registered broker. After that, follow the steps below:

• Enter PAN number and Aadhaar details.
• Fill out the bank details.
• Complete the in-person verification process.
• Complete the e-KYC process.
• Submit the required documents for verification.

After successful verification, you will receive your client ID and password.

FAQ

Can I have multiple demat account numbers?

Yes, you can have multiple demat account numbers with different brokers. Each broker provides you with a new DP ID for account identification.

What is the difference between DP ID and a Demat Account Number?

A DP ID is an 8-digit or 8-character code assigned to your broker by a central depository. A demat account number is a complete account number, which differs between CDSL and NSDL.

Is a BO ID the same as a demat account number?

Yes, a BO ID (Beneficiary Owner Identification Number) and a demat account number are generally used interchangeably for CDSL accounts.

Do CDSL and NSDL have different formats for a demat account number?

Yes, CDSL and NSDL use different formats for a demat account number.

• CDSL demat account number consists of a 16-digit number.
• NSDL demat account number starts with “IN” followed by a 14-digit number.