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Premises ID FAQ
- What is a Premises ID (PIN)?
- Do I need a Premises ID?
- Is Premises ID registration required?
- Is there a cost to register?
- How do I register for a Premises ID?
- How long does it take to get a PIN?
- Why should I register my premises?
- Do I need a Premises ID for Electronic Identification Devices (EID)?
- Who needs a Premises ID?
- Is a Premises ID required for the Illinois State Fair?
- What information is collected, and how is it used?
- Will my information be shared or made public?
- Do I need to update my information?
- Is there someone I can talk to?
A Premises ID is a unique number assigned to a location where animals are kept. It helps link animals to a specific place for animal health and emergency response.
If you own, keep, or manage livestock or poultry, it’s strongly recommended you register for a Premises ID. Some activities (like exhibitions or official ID) may require it.
In Illinois, registration is generally voluntary, but it may be required for certain programs, exhibitions (such as 4-H), or animal movement.
No. Registering for a Premises ID is free.
You can register online or by submitting a simple form. Once submitted, your Premises ID is typically issued quickly.
Most Premises IDs are issued within a few business days, often sooner.
Registering your premises helps protect your animals. In a disease outbreak or emergency, it allows animal health officials to quickly share important information and respond faster to protect your operation and others.
Yes if you are obtaining directly. For an Electronic Identification Device to be distributed, it must be assigned to a registered Premises ID. If you have your veterinarian tag the animals, instead of procuring your own EID, it will be registered to their Premises ID, and they will record and maintain records of the transfer or log the transfer to your premises if you have one.
Anyone who keeps livestock or poultry - including small farms, hobby owners, and backyard flocks - should register.
A Premises ID is not required for all exhibitors. However, some species—such as cattle and swine - must have official identification (like EID tags) to participate. To get EID tags, you will need a Premises ID. If you do not have a PIN, your veterinarian can help ensure your animals are properly identified for exhibition.
Basic contact information, location, and animal types are collected. This information is used for animal health purposes, such as disease response and communication.
Yes. Keeping your contact and animal information up to date ensures you receive timely and accurate information when it matters most.
Yes. If you have questions or need help with Premises ID registration, please reach out.
Contact:
Sara Underwood, Emergency Programs Coordinator
Illinois Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Animal Health & Welfare
(217) 785-8109
sara.underwood@illinois.gov