How to Check NIN Number Online Using Phone USSD Code *346#

If you have enrolled for the national ID card scheme, you can check or verify your NIN online by dialling *346# from the phone number associated with your voter’s card, drivers licence, or BVN registration.

How to Check NIN Number Online Using Phone USSD Code *346#

Before you proceed to checking your NIN online, ensure you have up to ₦20 airtime on your mobile number. Below are the simple steps to check your NIN number using your phone:

1. Dial *346#.
2. The following message will be displayed on your phone screen: "Welcome to NIMC USSD Service. This service will cost you ₦20. Press 1 to Retrieve your NIN or 2 to Cancel".
3. Select the “NIN Retrieval” option from the menu by pressing ‘1’ and then click Send.
4. Your National Identification Number (NIN) will be displayed to you.
5. Write it down on paper or take a screenshot and save it on your phone for future references.

Checking your NIN online with your phone using the *346# USSD code is currently only available to telecom subscribers on MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile.

The National Identification Number (NIN) consists of 11 non-intelligible numbers randomly chosen and assigned to an individual at the completion of enrolment into the National Identity Database (NIDB). Once a NIN is assigned to an individual, it can never be reassigned, given or used by another person – that makes it unique in nature.

In the case of the demise of an individual, his/her NIN is retired once a death certificate is presented to the Commission and the individual’s death is established. The NIN is used to tie all records about an individual in the database and is also used to establish or verify his/her identity.

All citizens and legal residents in Nigeria, from age zero (birth) and above are eligible to enrol for their NINs.

The NIN should be closely guarded by individuals and not revealed to all and sundry except to relevant authorities when requested (for instance it shouldn’t be disclosed online over social media and should not be printed along with contact details on business cards or other office stationery).