What a PPS number is
A Personal Public Service number is a unique reference number used by Irish public bodies. It is usually 7 numbers followed by one or two letters. Revenue uses it as your individual tax reference number.
Source: gov.ie — Get a PPS Number
When you need one
Common reasons include taking up employment, registering with Revenue, applying for social welfare, exchanging or applying for a driving licence, registering for education, or accessing another public service.
Documents you need
| Requirement | Examples |
|---|---|
| Identity | Passport, national identity card, Irish residence permit or other accepted photo ID. |
| Address | Recent utility bill, bank statement, lease, official letter or other accepted proof showing your name and address. |
| Reason you need it | Job offer, Revenue need, driving licence, social welfare, education or other public service reason. |
If you are staying with friends or relatives, gov.ie says an original household bill plus a note from the bill holder confirming you live there may be acceptable.
How to apply
Adults can apply online through MyWelfare. You need a MyGovID account to use the service. People outside Ireland who need a PPS number to deal with an Irish State agency can also apply, but must still show identity, address and why the number is needed.
After you get it
Give your PPS number to your employer, set up Revenue myAccount, and make sure your employment is registered correctly if this is your first Irish PAYE job. That helps Revenue issue the correct tax credits and rate bands to payroll.