GEOREF to Lat/Long Converter

Convert Georef to Lat Long instantly.

Free online converter with accurate results and clear explanations.

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How This Tool Works

The World Geographic Reference System (GEOREF) identifies a position with two letter pairs followed by optional numeric offsets. The first two letters select a 15-degree longitude and latitude zone, and the next two letters select a 1-degree cell inside that zone.

This converter omits I and O from the letter sequence, decodes the four-letter cell, then applies the numeric suffix as longitude and latitude minutes within that cell.

  • Input: A GEOREF code such as MKPG1234.
  • Numeric suffix: Split the digits evenly: 12 means 12 longitude minutes and 34 means 34 latitude minutes.
  • Output: Decimal latitude and longitude for the decoded point.

Why This Matters

GEOREF appears in aviation, defense, historical map, and field-coordinate workflows, while most modern mapping software expects decimal latitude and longitude. Converting the code into decimal degrees makes the location easier to verify, copy, and use in GIS or web maps.

Because GEOREF precision depends on the number of digits after the four letters, keep the original code when you need to preserve the stated grid precision.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Do not include I or O: GEOREF omits those letters to reduce confusion with 1 and 0.
  • Split numeric digits evenly: The first half is the longitude offset and the second half is the latitude offset.
  • Keep minutes under 60: Values such as 1261 are invalid because latitude minutes cannot be 61.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about the GEOREF to Lat/Long Converter

This converter handles decimal degrees, degrees-minutes-seconds (DMS), UTM, MGRS, and other common geographic coordinate systems used in mapping and navigation.

Sources & References

Geographic coordinate systems

Latitude/longitude, UTM, and datum definitions underlying coordinate conversions.
→Source: NOAA — National Geodetic Survey

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