ISBN Guide for Self-Publishers

Everything you need to know about ISBNs, ASINs, and when you actually need them

What is an ISBN?

ISBN stands for International Standard Book Number. It's a unique 13-digit identifier assigned to every published book.

Example: 978-0-06-112008-4

Each format (paperback, hardcover, ebook) needs its own ISBN

Print Books (Paperback/Hardcover)
Required for all print formats on Amazon KDP and other platforms
Selling in Bookstores & Libraries
Physical retailers require ISBNs for inventory management
Expanded Distribution
If you want your book available beyond Amazon
Professional Credibility
Makes your book look legitimate and professionally published

Kindle Ebooks (Amazon Only)
Amazon assigns an ASIN automatically - no ISBN required
Amazon-Exclusive Print Books
KDP provides free ISBNs if you're only selling on Amazon
Free Lead Magnets
PDFs for email list building don't need ISBNs

Amazon provides free ISBNs for print books. However, Amazon will be listed as the publisher.

Purchase from Bowker (US) or your country's ISBN agency. You'll be listed as the publisher.

Once you have your ISBN, generate a professional barcode for your back cover in seconds!

Format	ISBN Needed?	Notes
Kindle Ebook	No	Amazon assigns ASIN
Paperback (KDP)	Yes	Free from KDP or buy your own
Hardcover (KDP)	Yes	Free from KDP or buy your own
IngramSpark Print	Yes	Must buy your own
Draft2Digital Ebook	Optional	Recommended for wide distribution