LINE sends a verification code by text message to the number you enter, and offers Call me instead if the text does not come. Phone sign-up is only available in Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Taiwan and Thailand; elsewhere LINE signs you up with an Apple or Google account. If the code is missing, check SMS filters and blocked international callers first, and do not burn through attempts, because LINE locks verification for days.
How LINE verifies a new account
- Tap Sign up and choose your country Then enter your mobile number.
- Accept the terms LINE sends a code by text message. Some Android phones fill it in on their own.
- Check the Welcome back screen If LINE greets you with someone else's name, the number belonged to another account. Choose the option saying it is not you, then continue.
- Create the profile Set a name, a photo if you like, a password, and decide whether to sync contacts.
SMS or call: where the code arrives
| How it works | Watch out for | |
|---|---|---|
| Text message | The code is sent to the number you entered | It may come from domestic or international senders |
| Call me instead | An automated voice reads the code | Not available in some countries; the line must take calls |
The code is only valid for a limited time. Type it as soon as it arrives.
How voice codes work across apps: verification by call instead of SMS.
Code not arriving: what to check
- SMS blocking or spam filters on the phone or at your carrier. Turn them off while you verify.
- Blocked international or unknown callers. LINE's code can come from numbers abroad, so a block on those stops it.
- The number or device type. Landlines, virtual numbers, data-only SIMs and Wi-Fi-only devices cannot be used; a virtual number shows Invalid phone number.
- A number from outside the five regions. Mobile numbers from other countries cannot be used for phone sign-up.
- Attempt limits. If you see Please wait XX day(s) then try again, the lock runs its course. LINE says it cannot be lifted early.
When none of this helps, LINE's advice is to contact your carrier or phone maker, or to try a different number. Its support team will not send a code by hand.
Signing up outside LINE's phone regions
- Most countries
- Create the account with Apple or Google instead of a phone number.
- Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Thailand
- Phone sign-up with a local mobile number from that region.
- Virtual numbers
- LINE says they cannot be used. We do not recommend one for LINE.
The LINE page lists what we know about LINE's checks. For other apps that do accept a one-time number for sign-up, the web app shows which countries work best.
Common questions
Why is my LINE verification code not sending?
Usually an SMS filter, blocked international senders, an unsupported number type, or an attempt limit. Try Call me instead if your country offers it.
Can I sign up for LINE without a phone number?
Outside Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Taiwan and Thailand, yes: LINE uses an Apple or Google account instead.
How long is the LINE code valid?
LINE only says it is valid for a limited time, so enter it right after it arrives.
Can I use a virtual number for LINE?
LINE's help centre says virtual numbers and landlines cannot be used for verification.
Can LINE support send me the code?
No. LINE says it cannot send verification codes directly for security reasons.