How to Create an NPPES Account (Step-by-Step Guide)

NPPES (National Plan & Provider Enumeration System) is the official system where healthcare providers register for an NPI (National Provider Identifier). An NPI is required for submitting claims, eligibility checks, billing, and many other healthcare transactions.

Step 1 — Go to the NPPES Website

  1. Open your web browser.
  2. Visit the official NPPES login and registration page:
    https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov

 Step 2 — Start the Registration

  1. On the homepage, look for “Create or Manage an Account”.
  2. Click Create a New Account.

Step 3 — Enter User Information

On the registration form, you’ll be asked for:

 First Name

 Middle Name (optional)

 Last Name

 Email Address

 Confirm Email

 Phone Number

Make sure your email is active and accessible, because you’ll need it for verification.

 Step 4 — Create Login Credentials

  1. Choose a Username
  2. Create a Password
    • Use a strong password (at least 8 characters with numbers and symbols).
  3. Re-enter your password to confirm.

 Keep your credentials in a secure place — you’ll need them to log in later.

Step 5 — Enter Security Information

To help recover your account if needed, you’ll choose:

  • Security question
  • Security answer

Pick something you’ll remember easily.

Step 6 — Agree to Terms

  1. Review the User Agreement
  2. Click to accept terms and conditions
  3. Click Continue

 Step 7 — Email Verification

  1. Check your email inbox (and spam folder)
  2. Find the message from NPPES
  3. Click the verification link

Once verified, your NPPES account will be activated.

 Step 8 — Log In to Your New Account

  1. Return to https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov
  2. Click Login
  3. Enter your Username and Password
  4. Complete any security questions or CAPTCHA

 After Account Creation — Apply for NPI

Once logged in:

  1. Click Apply for an NPI
  2. Choose:
    • Type 1 (Individual provider)
    • Type 2 (Organization/group)
  4. Complete the application with:
    • Personal details
    • Practice address
    • Taxonomy codes (specialty)
    • License numbers
  6. Review & submit

Expect verification and processing — NPI issuance can take a few days.

 Helpful Tips

Use an email address you check regularly

Save your NPPES username/password securely

If your email changes later, update it in your account

Always log out when done (especially on shared computers)

Common Questions

Q: Do I need an NPI to bill insurance?

A: Yes — most payers require an NPI to submit claims.

Q: Can I update my NPI later?

A: Yes — changes like address, phone, and taxonomy can be updated online.

Q: Is there a fee?

A: No — creating an NPPES account and applying for an NPI is free.

Quick Checklist

Go to NPPES website

Click “Create a New Account”

Enter user info and contact details

Create username & password

Set security information

Agree to terms

Verify email

Login & apply for NPI