What is a CNR Number? Meaning, format & how to search
A CNR (Case Number Record) number is a unique 16-character alphanumeric identifier given to a case when it is registered on the eCourts system. Unlike a court case number, which repeats across courts and years, the CNR points to exactly one case, so it is the most reliable way to look up case status on the eCourts Services portal.
CNR number format
A CNR has 16 characters, laid out as SS DD EE NNNNNN YYYY.
State code (2 letters)
District code (2 letters)
Court establishment code (2 digits)
Unique case serial number (6 digits)
Year of registration (4 digits)
Always copy the CNR exactly as printed on the order or case record. Do not try to rebuild it from its parts.
How to search a case by CNR number
Open the eCourts Services portal (services.ecourts.gov.in) and choose Case Status, then CNR Number. For High Court cases use the High Court services portal and pick the court and bench first.
Type the full 16-character CNR with no spaces or hyphens, exactly as it appears on your court document.
Enter the captcha and submit.
Open the result to see the case history: current stage, next hearing date, judge or court, listed acts and the orders passed.
Save the CNR with your case file. The eCourts Services mobile app also lets you search by CNR on its home screen.
Where to find your CNR number
- On the first page of the plaint, petition or complaint receipt issued by the court registry.
- At the top of orders, judgments and the case-status printout from eCourts.
- In the summons, notice or hearing intimation sent by the court.
- In your advocate’s case diary or the e-filing acknowledgement.
Official links
Frequently asked questions
What does CNR stand for?
CNR stands for Case Number Record. It is a 16-character code generated by the eCourts system when a case is registered.
Is a CNR number the same as a case number?
No. The case number (for example, a case type, serial number and year) is specific to one court and can repeat in other courts. The CNR is unique to a single case across the eCourts system.
How many characters does a CNR number have?
Sixteen. It combines state, district and court-establishment codes with a six-digit case serial and the four-digit registration year.
What if I do not have my CNR number?
You can still search by case number, party name, advocate name, filing number, FIR number or act on the eCourts Services portal. Once the case appears, note down its CNR for next time.
Does every court case have a CNR?
Cases registered on the eCourts system (district courts, High Courts and many tribunals that use it) carry a CNR. Very old matters or courts not yet computerised may not appear online.
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