Completing GST registration does not always happen in a single sitting. Applicants often need
time to gather documents, verify business details or resolve technical interruptions. To make
this process flexible, the GST portal generates a Temporary Reference Number (TRN) once
basic details are entered, but before the final application is submitted.
This number allows applicants to save their progress, return later and continue their registration
without re-entering information. Understanding how the TRN works and how to retrieve it helps
businesses complete GST registration smoothly and without delays.
How to find your TRN on the GST portal?
If you have started the GST registration process but cannot recall your TRN, the GST portal
allows you to retrieve it using your registered contact details.
You can follow these steps to find your TRN:
1. Visit the official GST portal.
2. Navigate to Services and select Registration, then click on New Registration.
3. Choose the Temporary Reference Number (TRN) option.
4. Enter the mobile number or email ID used during registration.
5. Complete the OTP verification process.
6. The system will display your TRN, which can be used to access your saved application.
It is advisable to note the TRN in a secure location, as it is required each time you access the
portal to continue the registration process.
What is a TRN in GST?
A TRN is a unique number generated by the GST portal when an applicant begins the
registration process but has not yet submitted the final application. It serves as a temporary
tracking reference that allows applicants to access and continue their saved registration details.
The TRN is issued after the applicant completes the initial stage of registration, which includes
submitting basic information such as PAN, mobile number and email ID, followed by OTP
verification.
Key features of a TRN:
● It is a temporary identifier used only during the registration stage.
● It helps applicants to resume and complete a partially filled registration form.
● It is linked to the initial registration application.
● It remains valid for a limited period before expiry.
Once the registration process is completed and approved, the TRN is replaced by a permanent
GST Identification Number (GSTIN).
When is a TRN used in GST processes?
The TRN is required during the initial stages of GST registration, particularly when the
application has been started but not yet completed. It ensures that applicants can return to their
saved form without losing previously entered details.
After completing Part A of registration, applicants can use the TRN to log back into the portal
and continue filling Part B of the application, which covers business details, document uploads
and other required information. Once the registration form is submitted successfully, the system
generates an Application Reference Number (ARN) for tracking purposes, and the TRN is no
longer required.
Validity and expiry of TRN
A TRN generally remains valid for 15 days from the date of generation. During this period,
applicants can log in multiple times using the TRN to complete pending details and submit their
application.
If the TRN is not used within the 15-day validity period, the saved registration application,
including all details entered in Part B, is automatically removed from the system. Applicants
must begin the registration process again from the start, and a new TRN will be generated after
resubmitting the initial details.
To avoid repeating the process, it is advisable to complete GST registration within the 15-day
validity period.
Common issues related to TRN and their solutions
Applicants may sometimes face minor issues while accessing or using the TRN during GST
registration. Understanding these common problems helps resolve them quickly.
● TRN expiry: Since a TRN is valid only for 15 days, it may expire if registration is not
completed in time. In such cases, applicants must restart the registration process to
generate a new TRN.
● Difficulty retrieving the TRN: This may occur if incorrect mobile numbers or email IDs
are entered during retrieval. Using the same contact details that were registered at the
time of initial submission resolves this issue.
● Confusion between TRN and ARN: Some applicants may attempt to use the TRN after
submitting the application. Once the form is submitted, the system generates an
Application Reference Number (ARN) for tracking purposes. The TRN is no longer
required at that stage.
Conclusion
The Temporary Reference Number is a practical feature of the GST portal that allows applicants
to complete registration across multiple sessions without losing entered information. Noting the
TRN at the time of generation and completing registration within the 15-day validity period
avoids the need to restart the process.
Once registration is complete and a GSTIN is issued, the compliance journey begins, managing
GST returns, tracking ITC, reconciling purchase data and meeting filing deadlines on an
ongoing basis.
TallyPrime helps newly registered businesses manage GST compliance from day one with
accurate invoicing, automated return preparation and built-in reconciliation tools that make
staying compliant straightforward.
