German VAT Number Validation
Format, pattern, and ISO 7064 checksum algorithm for DE VAT numbers
German VAT numbers (Umsatzsteuer-Identifikationsnummer or USt-IdNr) use the canonical
EU format DE followed by 9 digits, for example DE123456789. The 9-digit national
part uses the ISO 7064 Mod 11-10 checksum algorithm.
Format vs. Active Validation
This checks format and checksum only, not if a VAT number is really registered. Use VatDB's API to verify if a number is really registered and active. VatDB checks official EU and national datasources.
Format Overview
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Country Code | DE |
| Format | 9 digits |
| Length | 9 digits (11 characters with DE country prefix) |
| Examples | DE132490588 DE129273398 DE115235681 |
Regex Pattern
^DE[0-9]{9}$
Checksum Algorithm (ISO 7064 Mod 11-10)
def validate_de_vat(number):
if number.startswith('DE'):
number = number[2:]
if len(number) != 9 or not number.isdigit():
return False
# ISO 7064 Mod 11-10 algorithm
check = 5
for digit in number:
d = int(digit)
check = ((check or 10) * 2) % 11
check = (check + d) % 10
return check == 1
Important Notes
- Only a German USt-IdNr in the form
DE+ 9 digits is valid for intra-EU VAT commerce - Common mistake: confusing the VAT ID with a Steuer-ID or Steuernummer
- An 11-digit Steuer-ID / Identifikationsnummer is an individual tax ID, NOT a VAT number, and should be rejected
- A Steuernummer is a local tax office number, often written with slashes. If it contains slashes, it is probably a Steuernummer, NOT a VAT number, and should be rejected
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I verify a German VAT number is valid?
For a basic offline check, confirm the number has DE + 9 digits and passes the ISO 7064 Mod 11-10 checksum. This only verifies structure and checksum. Use VatDB's API to confirm the number is currently registered and active.
What does a German VAT number look like?
A German VAT number (USt-IdNr) has the format DE123456789 - the country code DE followed by exactly 9 digits.
How many digits are in a German VAT number?
A German VAT number contains exactly 9 digits after the DE country code. The complete number including the country code is 11 characters (DE + 9 digits).
What is the difference between German USt-IdNr (VAT ID) and Steuernummer (Tax number)?
The USt-IdNr (Umsatzsteuer-Identifikationsnummer) is the EU VAT ID used for cross-border trade. The Steuernummer is a local German tax number for domestic filings. A Steuernummer can NOT be used for intra-EU transactions.
What is the difference between German USt-IdNr (VAT ID) and Steuer-Identifikationsnummer (Steuer-ID)?
The USt-IdNr is the EU VAT ID for intra-EU commerce and has the form DE + 9 digits. The Steuer-Identifikationsnummer, or Steuer-ID, is an 11-digit individual tax ID for a person. It is NOT a VAT number and should be rejected for VAT validation.
Where can I check a German VAT number online?
Use VatDB's API for instant VAT validation against official EU and national databases. Get real-time verification with company details.
What's the difference between format validation and checking if a VAT number is active?
Format validation only checks the structure and checksum. A VAT number can pass those checks but still be fake, unissued, or no longer active. VatDB's API verifies current, active registration status.
Are there any real German (DE) VAT numbers to try?
You can validate these genuine German (DE) VAT numbers: DE132490588, DE129273398, DE115235681.
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