DV Lottery Results 2026 - How to Fix the “Invalid Confirmation Number” Error

What Does the “Invalid Confirmation Number” Error Actually Mean?

Before jumping into solutions, it’s important to understand what this error really means.

When you check your DV Lottery result at the official U.S. Department of State website (https://dvprogram.state.gov), you are required to enter your unique 16-character confirmation number. If you see a message stating your confirmation number is invalid, it usually means one of two things:

1. You’ve entered the wrong confirmation number, or
2. You’ve entered the correct number, but made a formatting or typing error.

Understanding the structure of your confirmation number and the common pitfalls when entering it can help you resolve the error quickly and successfully.

Understanding the DV Lottery Confirmation Number Format

Your DV Lottery confirmation number is a unique 16-character alphanumeric code. It follows a specific format:

• The first four digits represent the fiscal year of your DV application.
  • For example: If you applied for the DV-2026 program, your confirmation number will begin with 2026.
• The remaining 12 characters consist of a combination of letters and numbers.

An example confirmation number might look like: 2026XXXXXXXXXXXX

To check your results successfully, make sure that:

• You enter all 16 characters exactly as they appear.
• There are no spaces before, within, or after the confirmation number.
• You use the correct characters, avoiding common mix-ups (explained below).

Top 5 Common Mistakes That Cause the Invalid Confirmation Number Error

Here are the five most frequent errors people make when entering their confirmation number — and how to avoid them:

1. Typing the Wrong Year

The most common mistake is entering a confirmation number that starts with the wrong fiscal year. If you applied for the DV-2026 Lottery, your number must start with “2026”. Double-check that you’re not using a number from DV-2025 or an earlier application year by mistake.

2. Confusing Similar-Looking Characters

Some letters and numbers look very similar and are easy to confuse — especially when typing from a printed or handwritten source. Be mindful of these common mix-ups:

• The letter O vs. the number 0 (zero)
• The uppercase I vs. the number 1
• The letter B vs. the number 8
• The letter S vs. the number 5

Carefully examine each character to ensure you’ve entered it correctly.

3. Inserting Extra Spaces

Sometimes, a confirmation number is copied with an accidental space at the beginning or end. Even a single extra space will make the entire number invalid. Be sure to delete any blank spaces before or after the number when pasting it into the form.

4. Copy-Paste Errors from Emails or Documents

If you’re copying your confirmation number from an email, PDF, or other document, beware of hidden formatting issues. Occasionally, special characters or formatting codes can be included in the copy, which aren’t visible but cause the input to fail. It’s best to paste the number into a plain text editor (like Notepad) first, then copy it again into the results form.

5. Using the Wrong Website or Form

Make absolutely sure that you’re checking your results on the official U.S. Department of State website:
👉 https://dvprogram.state.gov

There are many fraudulent or unofficial websites that mimic the result-checking portal. Using the wrong site can lead to confusion, data theft, or false error messages.

What If You Lost or Forgot Your Confirmation Number?

Don’t panic — you can recover your confirmation number if you still have access to the information you used during your original DV Lottery registration.

Here’s how to retrieve it:

1. Visit the official DV program results website: https://dvprogram.state.gov
2. Click on “Forgot Confirmation Number”
3. Enter the following details exactly as you submitted them:
   • Last name (as used in your application)
   • Date of birth (year only)
   • Email address (used during your original application)
   • Answer your security question correctly

If your answers match the details from your registration, the system will retrieve your confirmation number.

Final Tips for a Smooth and Successful Result Check

To ensure you avoid errors and have the best chance of viewing your DV Lottery results successfully, keep the following tips in mind:

✅ Double-check every character before hitting submit
✅ Use a desktop or laptop instead of a mobile phone for better accuracy
✅ Try a different web browser if the site isn’t loading correctly
✅ Always save a copy or screenshot of your confirmation number when you apply
✅ Bookmark the official DV program website to avoid scams

Don’t Let a Simple Mistake Cost You Your American Dream

Fixing the “invalid confirmation number” error is usually quick and easy — once you understand the common mistakes to avoid. A single misplaced character or using the wrong form can block your access to life-changing news. So take your time, follow the steps above carefully, and give yourself the best chance at a successful result.

At US Immigration Talk, we’re committed to guiding you through every stage of the immigration process — from DV Lottery applications to green card approvals and beyond.

Need help? Contact our team of immigration experts today.