What is a CPR in Bahrain? Number, card and eligibility
The short answer: CPR stands for Central Population Registry. The nine-digit CPR number on your ID card identifies you as one person in Bahrain. Every Bahraini citizen and resident needs the card and a personal number.
A form may ask for your CPR number even though your card says ID card. Look for the nine digits on the front.
Why do people still call it CPR?
The earlier card carried the Central Population Registry name. Bahrain's ID card combined that card with others. Bahrain's eKey FAQ still calls your personal ID number CPR. That is why the old name appears on today's forms.
Is the number the same as the card?
The number identifies you. The card shows your number and proves your identity.
| Term | What it means | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Central Population Registry | The name behind “CPR”. The earlier CPR card carried this name. | Bahrain's explanation of the CPR card |
| Personal number | Your unique nine-digit number, printed on the front of today's ID card. | Bahrain's ID card page |
| ID card | The physical proof of identity issued by the Information & eGovernment Authority. | iGA's ID card services |
What does the number identify?
The number points to one person. The current card prints it on the front and stores a personal record in its chip. That record includes your name and nationality. The card helps with government transactions, banking and healthcare. If a service asks for your CPR number, find the nine digits on the front of your card.
The card is proof; the number is the identifier. If you lose the card, use the replacement service. If you need to check an application, use the status service.
Who can get a CPR card?
Bahrain's ID card law requires every citizen and resident to obtain an ID card. The current ID card is available to citizens and non-Bahraini residents. iGA's population service says it issues personal numbers and ID cards for both groups.
If you need a card, use the official service below. If you have no personal number yet, ask iGA which number service applies to you.
Where do you go next?
Start with Bahrain's Family ID Card Services. The official portal lets you view card details, issue or renew a card, replace a lost or damaged card, print a card certificate and track a request. Choose the action you need, then follow that service's conditions.
For a phone-friendly walk-through, use our guides to renew a CPR card, check a card request or replace a lost card. The official Family ID Card Services page is the place to start the transaction.
Frequently asked questions
These short answers cover the distinction most forms leave unexplained.
Is CPR the card or the number?
CPR is the earlier registry-card name. Your CPR number is the nine-digit personal number on the front of today's ID card.
Can an expat resident get an ID card?
Yes. iGA says the current ID card is available to non-Bahraini residents as well as citizens. Check the application conditions for your residency category.
Where can I find my CPR number?
Look on the front of your Bahrain ID card for the nine-digit personal number.
Official sources
Bahrain's CPR card explanation, the current ID card page, iGA service rules, iGA's registry role and Family ID Card Services.