Random ISBN Generator

Create valid ISBN-10 and ISBN-13 numbers for testing, development, or educational purposes.

ISBN-13

978-0-123-45678-9
Prefix: 978 | Group: 0 | Publisher: 123 | Title: 45678 | Check: 9
✓ Valid ISBN

ISBN Structure Explained

An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) uniquely identifies books and book-like products. The structure differs between ISBN-10 and ISBN-13 formats:

ISBN-13 Structure

978/979 Prefix
0-9 Registration Group
1-5 digits Registrant (Publisher)
1-6 digits Publication (Title)
1 digit Check Digit

ISBN-10 Structure

0-9 Registration Group
1-5 digits Registrant (Publisher)
1-6 digits Publication (Title)
0-9 or X Check Digit

The check digit ensures the ISBN's validity and is calculated using a specific algorithm. For ISBN-10, the check digit can be 0-9 or 'X' (representing 10). For ISBN-13, it's always 0-9.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an ISBN?
An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is a unique numeric commercial book identifier. ISBNs were 10 digits long up to the end of December 2006, but since January 1, 2007, they now always consist of 13 digits. ISBNs are calculated using a specific mathematical formula and include a check digit to validate the number.
What's the difference between ISBN-10 and ISBN-13?
ISBN-10 is the older 10-digit format used before 2007. ISBN-13 is the current 13-digit standard that added a 3-digit prefix (typically 978 or 979) to the beginning of the ISBN-10. The check digit calculation also differs between the two formats. All new ISBNs are issued in the ISBN-13 format, though many books published before 2007 may still be referenced by their ISBN-10.
Are randomly generated ISBNs valid for use with real books?
No. While the ISBNs generated by this tool are algorithmically valid (they pass the checksum validation), they are not officially registered with the ISBN agency. To publish a book with a valid ISBN, you must obtain numbers from an official ISBN registration agency, usually through your country's ISBN issuing organization or through a publishing service.
What are random ISBNs useful for?
Randomly generated ISBNs are useful for:
  • Software testing and development of library or bookstore systems
  • Database population for demonstrations
  • Educational purposes to understand ISBN structure
  • Mockups and prototypes for publishing or book-related applications