Canada Postal Code Format Guide
Canadian postal codes alternate letters and digits in two blocks of three. The first character identifies a postal district; D, F, I, O, Q, and U are not used.
Standard format
ANA NAN
Example
M5V 3A8
Implementation and validation notes
Canadian postal codes alternate letters and digits in two blocks of three. The first character identifies a postal district; D, F, I, O, Q, and U are not used.
Validate required state, character set, length, and syntax on the client, then repeat validation on the server. Preserve the original input and normalize into a separate field; never truncate local scripts, compound names, or leading zeroes to fit a single Western assumption.
This guide describes common formats rather than an official registry and cannot enumerate every exception. Generated output is for testing only, not delivery, calling, identity verification, or real account activity.
Related resources
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard Canada postal code format?
A common representation is ANA NAN, for example M5V 3A8. Canadian postal codes alternate letters and digits in two blocks of three. The first character identifies a postal district; D, F, I, O, Q, and U are not used.
How should Canada postal code test data be stored?
Store the original value as a string so leading zeroes, spaces, hyphens, accents, and local scripts are preserved. Use a separate normalized field for search.
Does correct formatting prove the data is real?
No. Syntax validation cannot prove an address is deliverable, a number is assigned, or a name belongs to a real person.