How do I check if my pet's microchip is registered, and which database it's on?

How do I check if my pet's microchip is registered, and which database it's on?

You can check for free in under a minute using the Central Animal Records microchip checker. It tells you whether the chip is listed with us, listed on another national database, or not listed anywhere yet.

Being microchipped isn't the same as being registered. A microchip only holds a number. For it to bring your pet home, that number has to be linked to your current contact details on a registry.

Step 1: Find your pet's microchip number

A microchip number is 15 digits long and usually starts with 956, 900, 982, 985 or 941. You'll find it on:

  • your pet's microchip certificate
  • adoption or sale paperwork
  • vaccination or vet records

Can't find it? Any vet clinic can scan your pet for free.

Step 2: Enter it in the checker

Go to the CAR microchip checker and enter the number.

Step 3: What your result means

Listed with Central Animal Records. Your pet is on our database. Log in or create a free account to check your contact details are up to date and manage your pet's record.

Listed with another registry. Your pet is registered, just not with us. Contact that registry to check or update the details:

Registry Phone Email
Australasian Animal Registry (AAR) 02 9704 1450 help@aar.org.au
Global Micro Animal Registry 02 8338 9063 contact@globalmicro.com.au
PetSafe 02 8850 6800 info@petsafe.com.au
Greyhound Racing Victoria 03 8329 1139

Not listed on any national database. Your pet's microchip isn't linked to anyone yet, so if your pet goes missing, the chip can't lead back to you. You can list your pet with Central Animal Records online from $13.99. List your pet here.

Good to know

  • For privacy, the checker never shows the owner's name or contact details.
  • If you've just bought or adopted your pet and the chip is listed with us in someone else's name, see How to transfer a microchip into your name.
  • If your pet is listed with another registry, you don't need to do anything with us. Just make sure that registry has your current details.
  • Not sure what the difference is between microchipped and registered? See Is microchipping the same as registering my pet?