How to Enable Developer Mode on Discord

Developer Mode on Discord unlocks hidden tools that let you copy IDs for servers, channels, users, and messages. These IDs are essential for building bots, setting up automation, and troubleshooting server issues. This guide walks you through enabling Developer Mode on both desktop and mobile, and shows you how to use the copy-ID features.

What You’ll Need

• A Discord account (free or Nitro)
• Access to Discord on one of these platforms:
  • Desktop app (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
  • Web browser (discord.com/app)
  • Mobile app (iOS or Android)
• No admin permissions are required – any user can enable Developer Mode for their own account.

Step-by-Step

On Desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux, or Web)

1. Open Discord and log in to your account.
2. Click the gear icon (User Settings) at the bottom-left, next to your username and avatar.
3. In the left sidebar, scroll down to the Advanced section. It’s under App Settings.
4. Click Advanced.
5. Find the Developer Mode toggle and switch it ON (blue).
6. Close the settings. You’re done – Developer Mode is now active.

On Mobile (iOS and Android)

1. Open the Discord app and log in.
2. Tap your avatar in the bottom-right corner to open User Settings.
3. Scroll down and tap Advanced (under App Settings).
4. Toggle Developer Mode to ON.
5. Go back – you’re set.

How to Use Developer Mode (Copying IDs)

Once enabled, you can copy IDs by right-clicking (or long-pressing on mobile) on almost anything:

1. User ID: Right-click a user’s name or avatar in a chat or member list → click Copy User ID.
2. Channel ID: Right-click a text or voice channel name → click Copy Channel ID.
3. Server ID: Right-click the server icon in the left sidebar → click Copy Server ID.
4. Message ID: Right-click a message (on desktop) or long-press it (on mobile) → click Copy Message ID.
5. Paste the ID anywhere – in a bot command, a script, or a support ticket.

Common Mistakes

• Looking in the wrong settings menu: Developer Mode is not under Appearance or Privacy. It’s under Advanced in User Settings.
• Forgetting to restart after enabling: Usually not needed, but if you don’t see the copy-ID options, close and reopen Discord.
• Using the wrong ID type: Make sure you copy the correct ID – a channel ID is not the same as a server ID. Check the context before using it in a bot.
• Sharing IDs publicly: IDs are not secret, but they can be used to target a specific user or server. Avoid posting them in public chats unless necessary.
• Enabling on the wrong account: Developer Mode is per-account, not per-server. If you’re a bot developer, make sure you enable it on the account that runs the bot.

Tips

• Use keyboard shortcuts: On desktop, you can also copy a message ID by right-clicking and pressing Shift + Copy Message ID (if you hold Shift while right-clicking, the option changes to copy the ID directly).
• Keep it off when not needed: Developer Mode adds extra options to right-click menus, which can clutter the interface. Turn it off when you’re not actively developing.
• Use IDs for support: When reporting a bug or asking for help, including the server, channel, or message ID helps Discord support or moderators locate the issue quickly.
• Combine with Discord’s API: IDs are the backbone of Discord’s API. If you’re building a bot, you’ll need them for almost every request.
• Know the ID format: Discord IDs are 17-19 digit numbers. They are based on the timestamp of creation, so you can even decode the creation date from an ID.

Troubleshooting

If Developer Mode isn’t working as expected, try these fixes:

• The toggle is missing: If you don’t see the Advanced section, make sure you’re logged in and your Discord app is updated to the latest version. On some older versions, the menu may be in a different location.
• Copy ID option doesn’t appear: Right-click on the exact element – a user’s name, not their message; a channel name, not the channel’s chat area. If you’re on mobile, long-press and look for the option in the pop-up menu.
• IDs are not working in bots: Double-check that you copied the correct ID type. Also, ensure the bot has permission to access that server/channel. If the bot is offline, the ID won’t help.
• Still not working after enabling: Fully quit Discord (right-click the system tray icon and choose Quit, or close the app completely) and relaunch. On mobile, force-close the app and reopen.
• Developer Mode is on but the app is slow: This is likely unrelated. Clear your cache or reinstall the app if the issue persists.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Developer Mode actually for?

It adds a “Copy ID” option to context menus, giving you the unique numeric ID of any server, channel, user, or message. These IDs are used by bot developers, API requests, and support teams.

Do I need Developer Mode to use Discord normally?

No. It’s entirely optional and only adds convenience for developers and power users. Regular users can ignore it.

Can I enable Developer Mode on a server I don’t own?

Yes. Developer Mode is a client-side setting on your own account, not a server permission. You can enable it on any server you’re a member of.

Does Developer Mode work on the web version of Discord?

Yes, the steps are the same as the desktop app. Go to User Settings → Advanced → enable Developer Mode.

How do I copy my own user ID?

Right-click your username in the chat area (where you type) or on your avatar in the member list, then select “Copy User ID.”

Can I copy a message ID on mobile?

Yes, long-press the message you want, then tap the three-dot menu (or “More”) and select “Copy Message ID.”

Is Developer Mode the same as being a Discord Developer?

No. Being a “Discord Developer” refers to having a developer application registered in the Discord Developer Portal. Developer Mode is just a UI setting that reveals copy-ID options.

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