"Table Does Not Have Object-ID Field" warning when using Display XY Data in ArcMap

Description

Using Display XY data to plot points using the coordinates information within a stand-alone table (for example, and Excel or CSV file) might show a warning message similar to the following before plotting the points in the map.

Warning:
The table you specified does not have an Object-ID field so you will not be able to select, query, or edit the features in the resulting layer, or define relates for them.

After you create this layer, you can export it to a shapefile or a feature class if you need these functions. To export a layer, right-click it in the Table Of Contents and choose Data>Export Data. Add the exported to the map as a new layer

Note:
ArcMap is in Mature support and will be retired March 1, 2026. There are no plans for future releases of ArcMap, and it is recommended that you migrate to ArcGIS Pro. See Migrate from ArcMap to ArcGIS Pro for more information.

Cause

The table specified in the Display XY data dialog box does not have an Object ID field. 

Solution or Workaround

Click OK and the point layer should be created despite of this message.

Note:
If you need to select, query, or edit the features in the resulting layer, or define relates for them, export it to a shapefile or a feature class if you need these functions. To export a layer, right-click it in the Table Of Contents and choose Data > Export Data. Add the exported to the map as a new layer.

In case the points are displayed in the wrong location, please refer to this article: Problem: XY Points from a CSV File Display Incorrectly in ArcMap (esri.com)