RIA Glossary / Regulators & Filing Systems

CRD Number

Quick Answer
A CRD number is the unique identification number assigned to an investment adviser firm or individual representative within the Central Registration Depository system, used to track registration status, filings, and disciplinary history.
Reviewed by Sam Carter, Director of Registration Services
Last reviewed October 9, 2026

What Is a CRD Number?

Both firms and individual investment adviser representatives receive their own CRD numbers when they first register through the system, and the number stays with them permanently — it doesn’t change even if the firm changes its name or an individual moves between firms. The CRD number is used across related systems, including IARD for filings and IAPD for public disclosure lookups, making it the common identifier tying a firm or individual’s regulatory history together in one place.

Firms should reference their CRD number consistently in filings and disclosures, since mismatches or confusion between similarly named firms are more easily resolved when the correct CRD number is used.

Why it Matters

The CRD number is effectively a firm’s or individual’s permanent regulatory identity — it’s the fastest way for a client, regulator, or another firm to pull up an accurate registration and disciplinary history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my CRD number change if I switch firms?

No — an individual’s CRD number stays the same across firm changes; only the firm affiliation on record updates.

Where do I find my firm's CRD number?

It’s listed on your Form ADV and searchable directly through the IAPD database.
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What Is Regulation S-P? Regulation S-P requires two main things: a privacy notice given to clients

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