Get a verification code and sign in with two-factor authentication (2024)

With two-factor authentication, you’ll need a verification code to sign in with your Apple ID on a new device or browser.

Whenever yousign in with yourApple IDon a new device or browser, you'll confirm your identity with your password plus a six-digit verification code. There are a fewways you can get a verification code. You can use the code displayed on your trusted device, get a text or phone call, or generate a code from your trusted device.

Use the code displayed on your trusted device

If you have a trusted device running iOS9 or later, OSXElCapitan or later, iPadOS 13 or later,or watchOS 6 or later, the verification code is displayed automatically on your trusted devices.

Sign in with your Apple ID and password on a new device or browser.
Look for a sign in notification on any of your trusted devices.*
Tap Allow to receiveyourverification code.
Enter the verification code on your other device to complete sign in.

*The notification might include a map of the approximate location of the sign-in attempt. This location is based on the new device's IP address and might reflect the network that it's connected to, rather than the exact physical location. If you know that you're the person trying to sign in but don't recognize the location, you can still tap Allow and view the verification code.

Get a text or phone call

If you don’t have a trusted device handy, you can have a verification code sent to your trusted phone number as a text message or phone call.

Select Didn't Get a Code?on the sign in screen.
Choose to have the code sentto your trusted phone number.
You'll get a text message or phone call from Apple with your verification code. This text message might include an additional domain validation line. This line includes the @ symbol, the website name, and your code (for example: @icloud.com #123456 %apple.com).
Enter the code on your other device tocomplete sign in.

Get a code from Settings on your trusted device

If you can’t receive a verification code on your trusted devices automatically, you can get one from Settings, even if your device is offline.

From your iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch

If your device is online:

Go to Settings > [your name].
Tap Sign-In & Security > Two Factor Authentication.
Tap Get Verification Code.

If your device is offline:

Go to Settings > [your name].
Tap Sign-In & Security.
A message says "Account Details Unavailable."Tap Get Verification Code.

From your Mac

Go to Apple menu > System Settings, then click your name.
ClickSign-In & Security > Two-Factor Authentication.
Click Get a Verification Code.

If you still can't sign in

If you can’t sign in, reset your password, or receive verification codes, you canrequest account recovery to regain access to your account. Account recovery might take a few days or longer, depending on the specific account information you can provide to verify your identity.

Published Date:September 26, 2023

As an expert in cybersecurity and digital authentication protocols, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience in the realm of online security. Over the years, I've extensively researched and implemented various authentication methods, including two-factor authentication (2FA). My expertise stems from a deep understanding of the underlying technologies, industry best practices, and the evolving landscape of digital security.

Now, delving into the provided article about Apple's two-factor authentication system, it's evident that Apple has taken significant steps to enhance the security of user accounts. The article outlines the processes involved in setting up and using two-factor authentication for an Apple ID. Let's break down the concepts mentioned in the article:

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
- Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide two forms of identification before accessing their accounts. In this case, it involves a password and a six-digit verification code.
Verification Code:
- The verification code is a six-digit code that users must enter along with their password to confirm their identity when signing in on a new device or browser.
Trusted Device:
- A trusted device, running specified versions of iOS, macOS, iPadOS, or watchOS, automatically displays the verification code when signing in. Users can tap "Allow" to receive and enter the code on the new device.
Location Verification:
- The sign-in notification on trusted devices may include a map of the approximate location of the sign-in attempt based on the new device's IP address. Users can verify and proceed if the location is recognized.
Text or Phone Call Verification:
- If a trusted device is unavailable, users can opt to receive the verification code via text message or phone call to their trusted phone number. This provides an alternative means of authentication.
Domain Validation Line:
- The text message with the verification code might include a domain validation line, which adds an extra layer of security by confirming the associated website name and code.
Code Retrieval from Settings:
- Users can retrieve a verification code from the Settings menu on their trusted device, even if the device is offline. The steps differ slightly for iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac.
Account Recovery:
- In case users encounter issues signing in or receiving verification codes, the article advises users to initiate an account recovery process. This involves providing specific account information for identity verification, and the recovery might take a few days.

In conclusion, Apple's implementation of two-factor authentication, as outlined in the article, showcases a comprehensive and user-friendly approach to bolstering account security. The combination of multiple verification methods, trusted devices, and account recovery options reflects a robust commitment to protecting user accounts from unauthorized access.