ChatGPT or OpenAI Verification Code Not Arriving? What to Do
OpenAI asks for a phone number on some ChatGPT sign-ups and before giving API access. When the code doesn't arrive, or the form rejects the number, the reason is usually one of the five below.
1. The country isn't supported
OpenAI sends codes only to numbers from the countries where it offers its service. A number from elsewhere is refused on the form or never gets a code. Check OpenAI's own list of supported countries, and use a number from one of them.
2. The number is already used by other accounts
OpenAI limits how many accounts one number can verify. Past that limit you'll see a message that the number is already linked to the maximum number of accounts. A shared number from a free site hits this almost always: other people used it first.
3. Too many attempts
Requesting the code repeatedly can make OpenAI stop sending to that number for a while. Wait, then ask once and use the newest code.
4. The number is entered wrongly
Country code first and no leading 0 after it. The country code lookup shows how numbers are written in each country.
5. The number type is refused
Like most platforms, OpenAI refuses some numbers it treats as VoIP or disposable. The form says the number isn't supported, or the code just never comes.
When the number is the problem
If your own number is from an unsupported country or already used, change the number. A private virtual number is rented to one person for 28 days, so its codes go only to you. OpenAI makes the final call on every number, so check one before you rely on it: how to check a number. The full steps are in virtual phone number for OpenAI and ChatGPT.
FAQ
Does ChatGPT always ask for a phone number?
No. OpenAI asks on some sign-ups and for API access; many accounts are created with an email only.
Which country should the number be from?
One where OpenAI offers its service. Pick it from OpenAI's supported list, then choose a number in that country.
Can I get a refund if a number doesn't receive the OpenAI code?
A number is final and non-refundable once issued; refunds cover only unused balance or a verified technical fault on our side.
Get a number for OpenAI
See OpenAI numbers »: a private number for your ChatGPT or API account.