What is a MINC number?

A MINC number is:

• A unique identifier assigned to each individual who enters the Canadian medical education or practice system;
• A serial number with no encoded information (except country and profession);
• Nationally recognized;
• Supported by the Medical Council of Canada (MCC) and the Federation of Medical Regulatory Authorities of Canada (FMRAC)

A MINC number is not:

• A replacement for any existing registration, membership, certificate or other identification number;
• Reflective of any status, rights, credentials or privileges.

Why do I need a MINC number?

The increasingly complex, inter-related and computerized medical system in Canada has made the accurate, reliable identification of physicians (as well as medical students and residents) a significant problem. Many medical/health organizations have attempted to resolve this issue by issuing their own identifiers for their physicians; the result has been a proliferation of identifiers, none of which is linkable with other organizations. The MINC numbering system has been developed to provide a nationally-recognized unique, life-time identifier.

How do I apply for a MINC number?

If you have applied for the MCC exams, a number will automatically be assigned to you. Please contact MCC directly or access your MCC online account to locate your MINC number. 

If you are registered with a College of Physicians and Surgeons in: Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland & Labrador, Prince Edward Island or Quebec, then please contact them directly to obtain your MINC number.

If you are applying for registration with one of the above Colleges, applying for a MINC number will be a part of the application process.

Can you give me a MINC number?

Only a Prime Users can issue MINC Numbers.  The following are Prime Users:

College of Physicians and Surgeons of: Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland & Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Quebec and the Medical Council of Canada.

Can you tell me what my MINC number is?

If you call our number listed, our office will only be able to give you your MINC number if: a MINC number has been issued to you and you are registered with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta.

For all other inquiries, physicians must contact their respective Prime User. Physicians can find out what their MINC number is by contacting the College with which they are registered (or the MCC if you have written an MCC exam). The MINC office can not provide you with that information.