Snapchat: How to Change Your Number

To change your phone number on Snapchat, you update it in the app’s Settings under “Mobile Number.” You’ll need access to your current number to verify the change, and then you’ll confirm the new one via a text message code. This process takes about two minutes and works on both iOS and Android.

Why You Might Need to Change Your Number

People change their Snapchat number for several reasons: they got a new SIM card, switched carriers, moved to a different country, or simply want to stop using an old number that’s tied to spam or unwanted contacts. Your phone number is also a key recovery method—if you ever forget your password, Snapchat can text you a login code. Keeping that number current ensures you won’t get locked out of your account.

Before You Start: What You’ll Need

Access to your current phone number – Snapchat will send a verification code to it to confirm you’re the account owner.
Access to the new phone number – You’ll need to receive a text message with a code at the new number.
Your Snapchat password – You’ll be asked to enter it as part of the security check.
A stable internet connection – The app needs to communicate with Snapchat’s servers during the process.

Step-by-Step: Changing Your Number in the App

Open Snapchat and tap your Bitmoji avatar in the top-left corner of the Camera screen.
Tap the gear icon (Settings) in the top-right corner.
Scroll down to the “My Account” section and tap “Mobile Number.”
Tap “Continue” when prompted about verifying your identity.
Enter your current phone number and tap “Next.” Snapchat will send a 6-digit code via SMS to that number.
Type in the code you received, then enter your Snapchat password when asked.
Now enter your new phone number and tap “Next.”
Enter the 6-digit code sent to your new number.
You’ll see a confirmation message. Your number is now updated.

What If You Don’t Have Access to Your Old Number?

If you can’t receive texts at your old number (for example, you lost the SIM card or the line is disconnected), the in-app method won’t work because Snapchat requires verification of the current number first. In that case, you’ll need to use Snapchat’s account recovery flow. Go to the login screen, tap “Forgot your password?” and follow the prompts. If you have other recovery options set up—like a verified email address—you may be able to reset your password and then change your number later. If you don’t have access to any recovery method, you’ll need to contact Snapchat Support through their website, but be prepared to provide as much account info as possible (username, email, previous passwords, etc.). Snapchat’s support team will review your case, but there’s no guaranteed timeline for a response.

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

“Invalid code” error: Make sure you’re entering the most recent code. Codes expire after a few minutes, so request a new one if it’s been a while. Also check that your phone’s time and date are set to automatic—incorrect time can cause verification issues.
Code not arriving: Check your signal and that you haven’t accidentally blocked Snapchat’s sender number. On some carriers, you might need to enable SMS from unknown numbers. If you’re using Wi-Fi, try switching to cellular data or vice versa.
“Number already in use” error: This means the new number is already linked to another Snapchat account. You’ll need to use a different number, or log into that other account and change its number first.
App keeps crashing during the process: Force-close Snapchat and reopen it. If that doesn’t help, restart your phone and try again. Make sure your app is updated to the latest version.

Does Changing Your Number Affect Your Friends or Snaps?

No. Your friends will not be notified that you changed your number, and your username, Snapcode, friends list, chat history, and saved memories remain exactly the same. The only thing that changes is the phone number associated with your account. If you use Snapchat’s “Quick Add” feature, your new number might make you appear in the Quick Add list of people who have that number in their contacts—but that’s a minor side effect you can avoid by adjusting your privacy settings.

Security and Privacy Tips

Use a number you control long-term. If you change numbers often, consider using a secondary number or a VoIP service that you can keep.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA). After changing your number, go to Settings > Two-Factor Authentication and choose either SMS or an authenticator app. Using an authenticator app is more secure because it doesn’t depend on your phone number.
Don’t share your number publicly. Your number is used for account recovery, so keeping it private reduces the risk of someone trying to hijack your account.
Log out of old devices. If you changed numbers because you lost your phone, go to Settings > My Account > Device Management and remove any devices you no longer use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my Snapchat number without the old one?

No, not through the normal in-app process. Snapchat requires you to verify the current number to prove you own the account. If you don’t have access to it, you’ll need to use account recovery (if you have a verified email) or contact Snapchat Support.

Will my friends see my new number?

No. Your phone number is private and not shown to your friends. It’s only used for account security and verification purposes.

How often can I change my number on Snapchat?

There’s no official limit published, but changing it too frequently may trigger a security review. It’s best to only change it when necessary.

What if I get a “number already in use” message?

That means the new number is already attached to another Snapchat account. You’ll need to use a different number, or log into that other account and change its number first.

Does changing my number log me out of Snapchat?

No, you’ll stay logged in on the device you’re using. However, you may be logged out on other devices for security reasons, and you’ll need to log in again with your password and possibly a verification code.

Can I use a landline or VoIP number?

Snapchat generally requires a mobile number that can receive SMS text messages. Many VoIP numbers (like Google Voice) do work, but some are blocked. Landlines don’t work because they can’t receive SMS codes.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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