Code generator is a secure multi-factor authentication (MFA) method that helps protect your ID.me account. This article shows how to set up the ID.me Authenticator app, scan a QR code, and use a 6-digit code to sign in securely.

What to know before setting up code generator MFA

To use code generator MFA, download the free ID.me Authenticator app from the App Store or Google Play. 

If you’re unable to use the ID.me Authenticator app, choose passkey MFA, the safest MFA method available.

Add code generator MFA as a second method

If you already have another MFA method set up, you can add code generator MFA as an additional method:

1. Sign in to your ID.me account using your current MFA method.
2. In My Account, select Sign In & Security.
3. Next to Code Generator, select Set up.
4. On your mobile device, download the ID.me Authenticator app from the App Store or Google Play.
5. Follow steps 3-5 from the “Set up code generator MFA” below.

After setup, you’ll see the code generator added as an MFA method in your account.

Set up code generator MFA

To set up code generator MFA:

1. When prompted, select Code Generator.
2. On your mobile device, download the ID.me Authenticator app from the App Store or Google Play.
3. In your browser, select Continue.
4. Open the app to get your 6-digit code:
   • If you started on a mobile device: Select Generate code, then open the app and copy the code.
   • If you started on a computer: Scan the QR code that’s shown on your computer screen, then open the app and copy the code.
5. Return to your browser. Enter the code, then select Continue to finish setup.
   

Sign in with code generator MFA

To sign in using code generator MFA:

1. Sign in to your ID.me account.
2. Select Code Generator as the MFA method.
3. Open the ID.me Authenticator app to find the 6-digit code.
4. Enter the code displayed in the app before the timer reaches zero. A new code is generated every 30 seconds.

Edit or delete your codes

You can manage the codes directly within the app:

1. Open the ID.me Authenticator App.
2. Go to the “Code Generator” section to view current codes.
3. Swipe Left on a code to view its settings.

You edit or delete your codes:

Edit

Change the Issuer or Account Name, then select Done to save your changes.

Delete 

You can delete individual codes from your code generator. We recommend only setting up one code generator and avoiding code deletion unless you're setting up another MFA method.

Troubleshoot code generator MFA

I have several codes in the app

If you delete and re-add the code generator MFA on your device, you may see more than one set of codes in the app. To avoid confusion, we recommend using the most recently added code and deleting older codes.

To delete a code:

1. Open the ID.me Authenticator app.
2. Find the code you want to delete, swipe left, and select Delete.
3. Confirm by selecting Delete again.