GitLab Phone Verification: How It Works

GitLab asks for a phone number to confirm you are a real person and to protect your account. A real mobile number works best; many internet (VoIP) numbers are refused. Here is how it works and what to do when the code does not come.

When GitLab asks for your number

GitLab.com may ask new users to verify a phone number or a card before they can run CI/CD pipelines on shared runners. Developer and cloud platforms check phone numbers to keep out abuse of free resources and to protect accounts that can run up bills.

Which numbers work

• Your own mobile number works, as long as it can receive texts from short codes.
• Non-VoIP numbers from a mobile carrier are treated like any other phone.
• VoIP numbers from calling apps are often refused, or the code never arrives.
• A number already used on another GitLab account is usually refused.

Step by step

1. Open the phone step in GitLab and choose the country from the list.
2. Type the number without a leading 0 or a repeated country code.
3. Ask for the code once and wait a minute.
4. If the app offers a call or email instead, use it when texts do not arrive.
5. Enter the newest code only.

Using a virtual number for GitLab

A second number that you control can receive GitLab's code if it is a real mobile line. Avoid free public numbers: everyone can read them, and GitLab has usually seen them before.

If the code does not come

• Check spam and "unknown senders" in your messages app.
• Pause text-blocker apps and Do Not Disturb.
• After "too many attempts", wait a few hours before trying again.
• Try another number type if the app refuses yours.

FAQ

Why does GitLab need my phone number?

Developer and cloud platforms check phone numbers to keep out abuse of free resources and to protect accounts that can run up bills.

Does GitLab accept virtual numbers?

Non-VoIP mobile numbers usually work; numbers from internet calling apps are often refused.

Can I use one number on two GitLab accounts?

Usually not: most apps allow a number on one account at a time.

What if GitLab says too many attempts?

Wait a few hours, then request one code.

Will GitLab ask for the code again later?

Often, when you sign in on a new device or change account details. Keep the number, or add email and an authenticator app.

Should I use a free public number?

Only for a quick test. Anyone can read the code, and popular apps usually refuse those numbers.

Related: GitLab two-factor codes · GitLab code not received · verification code not received on any app.