Telegram ID vs username: what's the difference?

Telegram user ID and username are different. Understanding both helps when building bots or integrations.

Telegram user ID

Numeric (e.g. 123456789)
Assigned once and does not change
Not shown in the Telegram app
Required for many Bot API operations (sending messages, etc.)
Bots and apps can read it when you interact with them

To get yours: open @print_id_bot, tap Start, and copy the User ID from the reply.

Username

Text (e.g. @johndoe)
Optional — not all users have one
Changeable in Telegram settings
Public if set — anyone can find you by username
Used for sharing profiles and deep links

Why IDs matter for developers

The Bot API uses user ID and chat_id, not usernames. You cannot send a message to a user by username alone; you need their numeric ID. Usernames are useful for display and links, but the API works with IDs.

Can you get an ID from a username?

No. You cannot reliably get someone’s numeric ID from their username or phone number without them interacting with your bot or app. Services that claim “ID lookup by phone” or “ID by username” are often scams or violate privacy. See why Telegram doesn’t show your numeric ID.

FAQ

Can I use a username instead of ID in the Bot API?

No. The Bot API requires numeric user IDs and chat_ids for sending messages and most operations.

Why does @print_id_bot show both username and ID?

The bot shows your User ID (always) and username (if you have one). The ID is what integrations need; the username is for reference.

Is my username the same as my ID?

No. Username is optional text; ID is a numeric identifier. They are different fields.

Can someone find my ID from my username?

Not directly. They would need you to interact with a bot or app. Your ID is not publicly listed.

What if I change my username?

Your user ID stays the same. Only the username changes. Integrations using your ID continue to work.

Get your Telegram user ID instantly with @print_id_bot.

Open @print_id_bot