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What is CPF?

Learn what is CPF, how the 11-digit structure works, how to get yours, and everything about the Brazilian individual taxpayer registry number.

6 min read Updated on July 2026

In this guide, you will:

  • Understand what the CPF is and who is required to have one
  • Learn the 11-digit structure and the role of the check digits
  • Find out how and where to get a CPF for free
  • Validate and generate CPF numbers for testing

What the CPF is and who needs one

The CPF (Cadastro de Pessoa Fisica) is a unique 11-digit number issued by the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service (Receita Federal) to identify individual taxpayers. Every Brazilian citizen and resident foreigner needs a CPF for financial transactions, tax filing, and access to public services.

The 11-digit structure

The CPF has 11 digits: the first 8 identify the taxpayer, the 9th indicates the fiscal region, and the last 2 are check digits calculated using the Modulo 11 algorithm. This mathematical verification prevents typing errors and fraud.

1 2 3 . 4 5 6 . 7 8 9 - D D
Base (8) Region Check

Already have a number? Use the Validate CPF Online Free — Instant Check to check whether it is valid, or the CPF Generator for Testing — Free Online to create test numbers.

How to get a CPF

You can get a CPF online through the Receita Federal website, at a Banco do Brasil, Caixa Economica Federal, or Correios branch, or at Brazilian consulates abroad. The process is free for the first issuance.

Note

Registering and getting your first CPF is free on the Receita Federal website. Be wary of pages that charge a fee to "issue" or "fix" your CPF.

CPF for foreigners

Foreigners residing in Brazil or with financial interests in the country also need a CPF. It can be obtained at Brazilian consulates or upon entry into the country.

Tip

For companies, the equivalent document is the Alphanumeric CNPJ - What Changes in July 2026? — which starts accepting letters in July 2026.

The CPF is the backbone of individual tax identification in Brazil: 11 digits, the last two of them check digits, issued for free by the Receita Federal. Once you understand the structure, validating or generating a number takes seconds with the tools below.

Related guides

CPF & CNPJ Check Digit Algorithm — Modulo 11 Explained Alphanumeric CNPJ - What Changes in July 2026?

Related Tools

Validate CPF Online Free — Instant Check CPF Generator for Testing — Free Online CPF(s)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a CPF number?
CPF stands for Cadastro de Pessoa Fisica (Individual Taxpayer Registry). It is an 11-digit identification number issued by the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service to every individual taxpayer in Brazil.
How are CPF check digits calculated?
CPF check digits are calculated using the Modulo 11 algorithm. Each digit of the CPF is multiplied by a weight, the results are summed, and the remainder of the division by 11 determines the check digit. This process is applied twice for both verification digits.
Can foreigners get a CPF?
Yes. Foreigners can obtain a CPF at Brazilian consulates abroad, at the Federal Revenue Service offices, or automatically upon entering Brazil. It is required for opening bank accounts and many financial transactions.
What is the CPF used for?
The CPF is required for virtually all financial activities in Brazil: opening bank accounts, filing taxes, signing contracts, accessing government services, making purchases over certain amounts, and enrolling in educational institutions.
Is it free to get a CPF?
Yes, the first CPF issuance is completely free when done through the Receita Federal website or at authorized service points. Replacement cards may have a small fee at some locations.