An ISBN identifies your book so stores, libraries and distributors can list and order it. Here is how to get an ISBN and a barcode for a self-published book.
In the United States you get an ISBN from Bowker, the U.S. ISBN Agency. A single ISBN is $125, 10 are $295, and a barcode is $25 (prices checked 10/03/26). You, the publisher, apply for it yourself, so there are no extra fees. On orders of 50 or more books, UBuildABook can guide you through the ISBN number and barcode process.
The ISBN number ties into a catalog of all registered books in print. This catalog lists the publisher, access and purchasing information, and descriptive data about each book. For that reason, the publisher needs to apply for the ISBN number.
You need an ISBN if you plan to sell your book through stores, online retailers or distributors, or want libraries to carry it. A book printed only for family, friends or your own organization does not need one.
Order your ISBN from Bowker, the U.S. ISBN Agency. Each format of your book requires its own ISBN, so a hard cover and a soft cover edition need one each.
| From Bowker | Price (checked 10/03/26) |
|---|---|
| 1 ISBN | $125 |
| 10 ISBNs | $295 |
| Barcode | $25 |
| 1 ISBN + 1 barcode | $150 |
When you apply for an ISBN number, you can also request a corresponding barcode. You can put the price of your book in the barcode or you can omit it, whichever you prefer. Unless you are confident in your knowledge of the market, we generally recommend that you omit the price. Then you can change it, up or down, depending on your experience selling your book. You can also request a barcode separately from your ISBN application.
On orders of 50 or more books, we can guide you through the ISBN number and barcode process. Ask when you request your custom quote.
Place the barcode on your back cover using our cover templates, see how to sell your books on Amazon, or go back to book printing.
From Bowker, the U.S. ISBN Agency, a single ISBN is $125 and a block of 10 is $295 (prices checked 10/03/26).
Bowker charges $25 for a barcode. One ISBN with a barcode is $150.
The publisher. When you self-publish, that is you, so the ISBN is registered in your name.
You can put the price of your book in the barcode or omit it. Unless you are confident in your knowledge of the market, we generally recommend that you omit the price, so you can change it later.
Yes. According to Bowker, each format of your book requires its own ISBN.
On orders of 50 or more books, we can guide you through the ISBN number and barcode process.
Price 1-49 books instantly, or request a custom quote for 50 or more. A real person sends custom quotes, normally within 1 business day.
