Enrol an Apple Developer organization account and you hit one wall immediately: the D-U-N-S number. It blocks more company enrollments than any other step, so understand it before you start.
What it is
A D-U-N-S number is a nine-digit business identifier from Dun & Bradstreet. Apple uses it to confirm your company is a real, registered entity and that you are authorised to act for it.
Who needs one
- Organization accounts — required.
- Individual accounts — not required at all.
That single fact is why many developers pick an individual account: it removes the hardest part of enrollment. Weigh it in Individual vs Organization.
How to get one — free
- Check whether your business already has one via the lookup on Apple’s enrollment page.
- If not, request one. It is free for Apple enrollment — never pay a third party.
- Provide your exact legal name, registered address, phone and website.
- Wait a few business days (sometimes 1–2 weeks by region).
The number-one failure: mismatched details
Apple cross-checks your D-U-N-S record against your enrollment form. Any difference stalls it:
- “Ltd” vs “Limited”, or a trading name vs the legal name.
- Address formatted differently from the official registration.
- A phone number nobody answers.
- A website that does not mention the company.
Fix: make your D-U-N-S record, your legal registration and your Apple form say exactly the same thing.
How long it all takes
Realistically a few days to several weeks, including Apple’s own verification call. Company enrollment commonly runs 2–4 weeks end to end. If a rejection sends you back, longer — see enrollment fixes.
If you cannot wait
Deadlines do not move for paperwork. Need a business-name listing without the queue? You can buy a verified company account, delivered in hours.
FAQ
Is it free?
Yes, for Apple enrollment. Ignore anyone selling one.
Do individuals need it?
No — identity verification only.
Next: Apple developer fees decoded, or buy an iOS Developer account.