This ISBN barcode generator turns an ISBN-13 or an ISBN-10 into the EAN-13 book barcode printed on the back cover. An ISBN-10 is converted to ISBN-13 with a new check digit, a wrong check digit is flagged, and when you type the ISBN with its hyphens the ISBN line is printed above the bars. Download it as PNG or SVG, free.
How to make an ISBN barcode
- Type your ISBN exactly as your ISBN agency gave it, with hyphens (for example 978-0-306-40615-7).
- Check the preview; an ISBN-10 is shown as its ISBN-13.
- Download the SVG for the cover file, or the PNG for a quick proof.
What is an ISBN barcode?
An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) identifies one edition of a book. The barcode on the cover is an EAN-13 that encodes the 13-digit ISBN, which always starts with 978 or 979. Many covers also print the ISBN with hyphens above the bars.
ISBN-10 to ISBN-13
Books before 2007 used a 10-digit ISBN. To convert it, put 978 in front of the first 9 digits and calculate a new GS1 check digit. Example: ISBN-10 0-306-40615-2 becomes ISBN-13 978-0-306-40615-7. The generator does this for you.
The ISBN-10 check digit uses a different rule (Mod 11, where X means 10), so the last digit usually changes.
Why the hyphens matter
The hyphens split the ISBN into its parts: the 978 or 979 prefix, the registration group, the publisher, the title and the check digit. Their positions depend on your publisher number, so the generator cannot guess them. Type them as your ISBN agency gave them and the ISBN line appears above the bars; without hyphens, the barcode is still correct but shows only the digits.
Where to get an ISBN
ISBNs are issued by the national ISBN agency in your country, for example Bowker in the United States. This generator draws the barcode for an ISBN you already have; it does not issue ISBNs. For other EAN-13 barcodes, use the EAN-13 barcode generator.
Is it private?
Yes. The barcode is drawn in your browser and the ISBN is not sent to our server.
Tips for book barcodes
- Use the SVG in your cover file so the bars stay sharp.
- Place the barcode on the lower part of the back cover, on a white box.
- Give each format (hardcover, paperback, e-book) its own ISBN.
- Do not shrink the barcode below 80% of the standard EAN-13 size.
- Ask your printer or distributor whether they need a price add-on.
Related tools
Frequently asked questions
Can I use an ISBN-10?
Yes. It is converted to ISBN-13 and the new check digit is calculated.
Why is there no ISBN line above my barcode?
Type the ISBN with its hyphens. Without them the barcode is correct but shows only the digits.
Does the barcode include the price?
No. The 5-digit price add-on is planned; ask your distributor if you need it.
Can I make an ISBN for free here?
No. ISBNs come from your national ISBN agency. This tool only draws the barcode.
Is an ISBN barcode the same as an EAN-13?
Yes. It is an EAN-13 whose number is the ISBN-13.