Updated on - 05 Feb 2026
The COVID-19 pandemic changed the way we live, work and interact with one another. One of the most crucial steps in protecting ourselves and our communities was getting vaccinated. But have you ever wondered how each vaccination record was tracked and verified across millions of people? During the vaccination drive, every individual who received the vaccine was assigned a unique beneficiary reference ID, also known as a beneficiary ID.
In this blog, let’s understand what the beneficiary ID is and why it plays such an important role in your COVID-19 vaccination record.
What is the beneficiary reference ID?
The beneficiary reference ID (sometimes called beneficiary ID) is a unique identification number that was given to each person who registered for the COVID-19 vaccine. This number helps the vaccination system record and track your vaccination details.
Every person who registered for the COVID-19 vaccine, whether online or at a vaccination centre, received this ID. It was generated automatically when your details were entered into the registration portal or app.
The beneficiary ID is very important because it:
- Helps to identify your vaccination record.
- Ensures that your first and second doses are properly linked.
- Allows you to download your COVID-19 vaccination certificate.
- Helps the government to maintain accurate data about vaccination progress.
Keeping your beneficiary ID handy can also help when applying for or renewing health insurance, be it family, individual or senior citizen health insurance. Some insurers may ask for vaccination details to update your health records or to provide better coverage options.
How to find a beneficiary ID for a COVID-19 vaccine certificate?
Here’s how you can find a beneficiary ID for a COVID-19 vaccine certificate:
- Start by navigating to the official CoWIN website at https://www.cowin.gov.in/
- Locate the "Register" button on the webpage’s top right-hand corner.
- Enter your registered mobile number; now, wait for the one-time password (OTP) that you will receive on this mobile number.
- Once the OTP arrives, enter it as requested and diligently follow the guidelines to finalise your registration.
- Upon registration, you can generate your exclusive beneficiary ID for the COVID-19 vaccination.
Documents required for the registration of the beneficiary ID
When registering for the COVID-19 vaccine, you need to provide some basic documents and details. These are used to verify your identity and to generate your beneficiary ID. Here’s a list of common documents that are accepted during registration:
- Aadhaar Card
- Voter ID
- PAN Card
- Health insurance smart card
- Mahatma Gandhi NREGA Job Card
- Passport or Driving Licence
- Bank or Post Office Passbook
- Pension document
- Official ID with a photograph for Central/State Govt/PSU employees
Conclusion
The beneficiary Reference ID is a very important part of the COVID-19 vaccination process. It helps you download your vaccine certificate, verify your vaccination status and access your health record. Always keep your beneficiary ID safe for future reference. It’s a useful record that may be required for travel, health documentation or proof of vaccination. Keeping a digital and physical copy will ensure you have access to it whenever you need it.
While you take steps to protect your health through vaccination, it’s equally important to protect yourself from unexpected medical costs. Get simple, personalised health insurance advice by filling out the form on this page and take a smart step towards securing your family’s health today.
FAQs
1. What is a beneficiary reference ID?
It is a unique identification number given to every person who registered for the COVID-19 vaccine. It helps in tracking vaccination records and downloading the vaccine certificate.
2. Where can I find my beneficiary ID?
You can find it in the SMS you received after vaccination, on your vaccine certificate or by logging in with your registered mobile number.
3. Is the beneficiary ID the same as my certificate number?
No. The beneficiary ID is used to generate and link your vaccination record, while the certificate number is unique to the document itself.
4. What should I do if I have lost my beneficiary ID?
You can recover it using your registered mobile number or by visiting your vaccination centre with a valid photo ID.
5. Can one mobile number have multiple beneficiary IDs?
Yes, one mobile number can be used to register up to four beneficiaries, each having a different beneficiary ID.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.