Official path
Security & sign-in → How you sign in to Google → Turn on 2-Step Verification → 2-Step Verification settings → Backup codes Before you start
- Sign in from a browser on a device you trust.
- Check that the device clock and time zone are correct.
- Keep your recovery email or phone number ready in case Google asks for another verification step.
Setup steps
- 01
Open 2-Step Verification
In your Google Account, open Security & sign-in, then How you sign in to Google, and choose Turn on 2-Step Verification.
- 02
Choose an authenticator
On the 2-Step Verification settings page, choose Set up authenticator or Get Started and follow the prompts for Google Authenticator or another verification app.
- 03
Enter the verification code
Use the app to generate a one-time code, then enter it to finish the setup.
- 04
Save backup codes
Open the Backup codes section and download or print the codes before you sign out.
Recovery and backup
Open backup codes
Go to How you sign in to Google, then 2-Step Verification, then Backup codes, and choose Continue.
Refresh or delete the set
Use Get backup codes, Refresh, Delete, Download Codes, or Print depending on whether you need a fresh set or a clean reset.
Use Try another way
At sign-in, choose Try another way, then enter one of your 8-digit backup codes.
Common problems
Organization controls
Work or school accounts may disable some 2-Step Verification steps and require an administrator.
Advanced Protection
Advanced Protection Program accounts cannot download backup codes.
Code mismatch
If Google Authenticator codes fail, check the account label, the app, and the device time sync.