X (Twitter) does not always need a phone number to create an account, but it may ask you to verify one later, and it can ask again after that. You add it under Settings → Your account → Account information → Phone, and confirm it with a six-digit code by SMS. X turns down many virtual numbers, so a verified phone number on X should be one you keep.
When X asks for a phone number
- Later, in settings: you can open an account first and add a number when X asks or when you want it for security.
- When X wants to confirm the account: a prompt to verify a phone number can appear on a sign-in or in the app.
- Again later: X may send a fresh code to the saved number, so it has to still reach you.
Twitter at a glance
- Virtual numbers
- Often refused: try another country
- Code sent by
- SMS
- Code length
- 6 digits
- Asks for the number again later
- Yes
- One number per account
- No
Adding or removing a number
- Open Account information Go to Settings → Your account → Account information, and confirm your password if X asks for it.
- Choose Phone Add a number, or update the one already there.
- Enter the six-digit code X texts it to the new number. Once entered, the number is verified.
- To remove it In the same Phone screen, delete the number. Make sure you still have another way to sign in, such as your e-mail.
Code not arriving
| What to do | |
|---|---|
| X says the number cannot be used | The range is refused; X is strict with virtual numbers. Try a regular mobile number |
| No error, but no text | Check filtered messages and the country code, then request one new code |
| Several codes requested | Pause before trying again; repeated requests rarely help |
| Code rejected | Use only the newest code, and type it within a few minutes |
Who can find you by your number
A verified number can make your account easier to find for people who have your number in their contacts. If you want to stay anonymous on X, look in your privacy settings for the option to be found by phone number, and switch it off.
- Do not upload your contacts if you would rather not be suggested to them.
- Remove the number if X no longer needs it and you have another way to sign in.
- Use a separate number for an account you keep apart from your real name, but one you will still have when X asks again.
Common questions
Do I need a phone number for X (Twitter)?
Not always to create the account. X may ask you to verify one later, and then the account works fully only after you do.
How do I make a Twitter account without a phone number?
Sign up with an e-mail address if the sign-up offers it. X can still ask for a number later, so expect that step at some point.
Why is X not sending my verification code?
Often the number range is refused before anything is sent. Otherwise check filtered messages and the country code, and avoid many requests in a row.
Can people find my X account through my phone number?
They may, if they have your number in their contacts and your privacy settings allow being found by phone. Switch that option off if you want to stay unfindable.