Adding and understanding ISRC codes

What an ISRC is

An ISRC is a 12-character alphanumeric code that permanently and uniquely identifies a specific sound recording or music video. It is the primary identifier used by streaming platforms, broadcasters, and rights management organisations to track plays and calculate royalties for recordings. Every distinct recording — including remixes, live versions, and alternate mixes — should have its own unique ISRC.

ISRC format

An ISRC follows the format CC-XXX-YY-NNNNN, where:

• CC — two-letter country code where the registrant is based (e.g. US, GB, CA)
• XXX — three-character alphanumeric registrant code assigned to the record label or distributor
• YY — two-digit year of registration
• NNNNN — five-digit designation code, unique within the registrant and year

Example

A valid ISRC looks like: CAAA00000001 (entered with or without hyphens — both formats are accepted by MRP). When displayed on the composition page, ISRCs are shown in monospace type to make each segment easy to read.

Where to get an ISRC

ISRCs are issued by national ISRC agencies or by registrants who have been assigned a registrant code by their national agency. If you release music through a distributor (such as DistroKid, TuneCore, CD Baby, or a major label), your distributor typically assigns ISRCs to each track and provides them in your release data. If you release independently, you can apply for a registrant code through your country's ISRC agency.

Adding an ISRC in MRP

Open Recording Information on the composition or work from Recordings / Master Rights, then add or edit the recording. Enter the ISRC exactly as issued. MRP validates the format and may normalize presentation, but the ISRC always identifies the specific recording—not the underlying composition.