Set Up Google 2-Step Verification Using Backup Codes

If you don’t want to use your personal phone for 2-Step Verification, Google allows you to secure your district account using Backup Codes. These are one-time, printable codes you can keep at your desk, in your badge holder, or locked in a drawer.

Backup Codes are an approved alternative to phone-based verification and still meet district security requirements.

🧭 Step-by-Step: How to Set Up Backup Codes

1️⃣ Open Your Google Account Security Settings

In a browser, go to: myaccount.google.com
On the left menu, click Security
Under “How you sign in to Google”, click 2-Step Verification

💬 You may be asked to sign in again — this is normal.

2️⃣ Complete the Initial 2-Step Verification Setup

Google requires you to set up at least one primary method before Backup Codes can be generated.

You can set up phone prompts once, just to unlock access to the Backup Codes section
After Backup Codes are created, you may turn off phone prompts

⚠️ This does NOT remove your 2FA requirement — it simply allows Backup Codes to become your primary method.

3️⃣ Generate Backup Codes

After 2-Step Verification is enabled, scroll down to Backup Codes
Click “Set up” (or “Show codes” if you’ve used this before)
Google will generate 10 unique codes
Click Download, Print, or Copy to save them

💬 Pro Tip: If you regenerate your codes, discard and replace the old sheet immediately to avoid confusion.

📄 How Backup Codes Work

Each code can be used one time

When you sign in and are asked for a verification code, enter one of the backup codes

Used codes can be replaced at any time by clicking “Generate new codes”

You can keep the sheet:

in your desk
in a secure drawer
in a badge holder
or anywhere private and accessible

🛑 Important Reminders

Backup Codes must be stored securely — treat them like a password
Do not share them with coworkers or students
These codes are the only way into your account if you are not using a phone
If you lose your Backup Codes, you must generate a new set

🔐 Do Not turn off your Google 2-Step Verification 🔐

⚠️ Turning off Google 2-Step Verification places your account—and district data—at significant risk.
🚨Please be aware that disabling 2FA may result in your district Google account being automatically suspended by our security systems to protect student information, email access, and internal resources.
🚫 For your safety and to maintain access, do not turn off 2-Step Verification after it has been enabled.