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How to apply for a director ID in Australia - Updated for 2026

Author

Alvin Khoury

Date Published

A director identification number (director ID) is a mandatory requirement for anyone who is a director (or intends to become a director) of an Australian company, registered foreign company, registered Australian body, or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporation. The requirement was introduced back in 2021 to prevent fraudulent director identities and improve traceability of directors across multiple companies.

This guide explains what a director ID is, who needs one, when you must apply, and how to complete the application process.

What is a director ID?

A director ID is a unique 15‑digit identifier issued by the Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS) after verifying your identity. You will keep the same director ID, even if you:

  • change companies;
  • stop being a director;
  • change your name; or
  • move interstate or overseas.

Who needs to apply for a director ID?

You must apply for a director ID if you are a director (or intend to become a director) of:

  • an Australian company
  • a registered foreign company
  • a registered Australian body
  • an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporation

You will not need a director ID if you are a company secretary (but not also a director).

When you must apply

As at the latest regulatory guidance:

  • You must apply for a director ID before you are appointed as a director. 
  • Existing directors who missed their applicable deadline are still required to apply for a director ID.

How to apply for a director ID (Australian residents)

Australian residents (including Australian residents living overseas) can apply for a director ID using the ABRS platform.

Step 1—Set Up Your Digital ID (myID)

To apply online, you need a Digital ID with at least standard identity strength.
This requires two Australian identity documents, such as:

  • passport
  • driver’s licence
  • birth certificate
  • citizenship certificate
  • Medicare card
  • visa
  • ImmiCard

You will need to download the myID app from the Apple App Store or Google Play, and follow the prompts to set up your Digital ID. 

Step 2—Gather the required documents

ABRS will verify your identity using Australian Taxation Office (ATO) information.

If you have strong identity strength:

You need only one of:

  • your tax file number
  • your residential address held by the ATO  

If you have standard identity strength:

You must provide additional evidence, including two of the following:

  • bank account details known to the ATO
  • ATO notice of assessment
  • APRA-regulated super fund details
  • dividend statement
  • Centrelink payment summary
  • PAYG payment summary

Step 3—Complete your application online

  1. Log in to ABRS Online using your myID.
  2. Follow the prompts to verify your identity.
  3. Your director ID will be issued immediately upon successful verification.

How to apply for a director ID (overseas residents)

Overseas residents who cannot set up a myID will need to apply for a director ID by completing a paper form and posting it to ABRS.

Although ABRS’ turnaround time to process paper forms is 56 business days, you can be appointed as a director as soon as your paper application has been delivered to ABRS.

Step 1—Download the paper form

ABRS’ paper form “Application for a director identification number – for people living outside Australia” can be downloaded here.

Step 2—Gather your identity documents

You will need to provide certified copies of your identity documents. These include:

  • One primary identity document, such as: 
    • foreign passport
    • birth certificate
  • One secondary identity document, such as: 
    • national ID card
    • driver’s licence
    • marriage certificate

Step 3—Certification requirements for overseas residents

Identity documents must be certified either by:

  • a notary public
  • staff at an Australian embassy, high commission or consulate

Step 4—Complete the paper form

You must provide:

  • Your full legal name
  • Any previous names
  • Date and place of birth
  • Overseas residential address
  • Your contact details

The details you insert must match the details in your certified documents.

Step 5—Post your completed form to ABRS

The final step is to post your completed form and certified identity documents to ABRS to their address specified in the paper form.


Managing your director ID

If your residential address or contact information changes, you must:

  • Update your details with ABRS
  • Notify your company within 7 days
  • Ensure the company notifies ASIC within 28 days

Australian residents with a myID can update their details via ABRS Online. Overseas residents will need to call ABRS to update their details.


Penalties for failing to apply

ASIC enforces strict penalties for directors who fail to hold a director ID when required. Offences include:

  • failing to apply
  • applying late
  • applying for multiple director IDs
  • misrepresenting a director ID

Serious breaches may involve significant fines or imprisonment. 


Final thoughts

A director ID is now a standard requirement for anyone taking on directorships in Australia. For most Australian residents, the online application process is quick and straightforward. For overseas residents, the paper‑based process is more involved, so it is important to allow extra time.