Google shows This phone number cannot be used for verification when it will not send a code to that number for this sign-up. The only reason Google gives is a limit on how many accounts one number may create. Trying the same number again does not lift it; a different number does.
What the message means
Google has two similar messages. Both end the same way: Google wants a different number, not another attempt on this one.
| What Google says it means | Google's advice | |
|---|---|---|
| This phone number cannot be used for verification | Google limits the number of accounts each phone number can create | Use a different number |
| This phone number has been used too many times for verification | The number has reached its limit of verifications | Use a different number, for example a family member's |
Google does not say where the limit lies or how long it lasts.
The usual causes
- The number already carries accounts. Google caps how many accounts one number can create, to make mass sign-ups harder.
- The number has been verified too often. Shared family phones and numbers you have used for many sign-ups hit this sooner.
- The connection looks unusual. Google lists switching off a VPN among its fixes, so a VPN can count against you.
- The carrier or range. Google suggests trying a number from a different provider, which points at the range rather than the single number.
What to try, in order
- Stop retrying that number Every further attempt is one more verification on a number Google has already turned down.
- Switch off the VPN Sign up over your normal home or mobile connection instead.
- Pause if you tried many times Google's help recommends at least seven days without any sign-in or verification attempt before trying again with a new number.
- Take a number from another carrier A second SIM, a family member's phone, or a one-time number from another country.
- Prefer the text over the call If a text has not arrived after a few minutes, Google offers a call. That only helps on a number that can take calls.
Choosing another number that gets through
| Good for | Keep in mind | |
|---|---|---|
| Your own second SIM | An account you will keep for years | Best choice for recovery and later checks |
| A family member's number | Google suggests it itself | Their number then counts towards Google's limit |
| A one-time number | Getting past the sign-up without your personal number | One code, then the number is gone; add your own later |
For a one-time number, choose the country by the success rate shown in the app. Google refuses many ranges, so if one country fails twice, switch countries instead of numbers in the same one.
Common questions
Is my Google Account blocked when I see this message?
Google's help describes it as a limit on the number, not on you. Use a different number and the sign-up can continue.
How long until I can use the same number again?
Google does not publish a time. Its help only advises at least seven days without attempts before trying again with a new number.
Does a landline work?
Google says you need a mobile device to verify. A home phone can only take the voice call option, which Google offers when a text does not come.
Will a temporary number work for Google?
Sometimes, for the sign-up code. Google is strict, so check the success rate per country first, and add a number of your own afterwards because Google asks again later.