Signal Verification Code Not Arriving? What to Try

If your Signal registration code does not arrive, wait out the timer, check the number and ask for a phone call instead. Most failed codes come from a typo, a carrier filter or a number that cannot receive texts. Here is what to check, in order.

Check these first

1. The number and country code. One wrong digit sends the code to someone else. Re-enter it with the country code (+1 for the United States).
2. The timer. Signal makes you wait before it lets you request a new code. Pressing the button repeatedly does not speed it up and can slow things down.
3. Signal and the phone. Update the app, check you have signal, and turn off airplane mode.
4. Spam or blocked senders. Check your messages for filtered senders. Some carriers hold short-code texts.

Ask for a call instead

Signal offers a phone call as an alternative, once the wait is over. The call reads the code out loud. This helps when the text is filtered or the number cannot receive short codes. If you are using a number from us, voice verification answers the call for you and posts the code to your order page.

If the number cannot receive texts

Some numbers cannot receive texts from verification services, including landlines and certain VoIP lines. Our guide on how to tell if a number can receive verification codes shows a quick way to test.

Think before you register a short-lived number

Signal ties your account to your phone number. That has consequences if you use a number that is not yours for the long run:

• One-time numbers are gone in minutes. If you need to re-register later, you cannot receive the new code on it.
• Rentals end. They run from one day to one year (rental prices), then the number can be given to someone else. Turn on Signal's registration lock PIN so another person cannot register your old number and take over the account.
• Your contacts see your number. If you use a rented number for a second account, tell the people you message that it is a different number.

For an account you plan to keep, use your own number.

If you want to try a US number from us

On the Signal service page you can buy a one-time number and read the code on your order page. We cannot guarantee Signal accepts any specific number. If the code does not arrive, the order is refunded in full.

Frequently asked questions

Why does Signal say it could not send a code?

Often the number is wrong, the carrier is filtering the text, or the number cannot receive texts. Try the call option.

Can I register Signal on a landline number?

Signal can verify by phone call, which can work for landlines. Check Signal's own help page for the current rules.

Is it safe to register Signal on a rented number?

For short-term use, with a registration lock PIN turned on. For long-term use, no. When the rental ends, the number can be reassigned.

How long should I wait before asking for another code?

Follow the timer Signal shows. See how long to wait before requesting another SMS code.