OpenAI SMS Verification Guide
How phone verification works for OpenAI account registration, and what options exist for users whose local phone numbers can't receive the SMS.
Background
Creating an OpenAI account (ChatGPT, API platform) requires a phone number that can receive an SMS code. Numbers from some regions — notably mainland China (+86) — never receive the message. This is a hard block in the registration flow, not a delay.
Available Approaches
| Approach | Cost | Time | Number ownership | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign physical SIM | US$5-30 | Days (shipping) | Long-term | Most reliable; needs a purchase channel |
| Temporary number service | ~US$1-3 per use | Minutes | One-time | Good for a single registration |
| A friend overseas receives the SMS | Free | Varies | One-time | Depends on having a contact |
| Google Voice | Requires a US number first | — | Long-term | VoIP ranges are also risk-controlled by OpenAI |
No option fits everyone. A physical SIM makes sense if you need the number long-term; a temporary number is enough if you only need to pass verification once.
Typical Flow with a Temporary Number
1. Prepare a network environment that can reach openai.com
2. Obtain a temporary overseas number from an SMS receiving service
3. Open the ChatGPT registration page, enter email and password
4. At the phone verification step, select the country code matching your number
5. Enter the number (without country code) and submit
6. Read the SMS code on the service page (usually within 1-3 minutes)
7. Enter the code to finish registration
8. Bind your own email immediately afterwardsIf no SMS arrives: replace the number and retry → switch to a different country/number range → check your IP environment → if it keeps failing, the platform is likely blocking virtual ranges; try again later or use a physical SIM.
After Registration
- Bind your email right away — it is your only account recovery method
- Account bans are overwhelmingly caused by usage violations, not by the number used at registration
- A one-time number cannot be reused for future verification challenges; keep your credentials safe
FAQ
Is using a temporary number against the rules?
The verification step is identical to what any international user completes. What matters afterwards is how the account is used.
Are "pre-made accounts" sold online trustworthy?
Not recommended. They carry recovery, ban, and privacy risks. Registering yourself is cheap and safer.