How to transfer Google Authenticator from one phone to another

Why it matters

Authenticator provides one-time codes for 2‑step verification even offline. It’s vital to move those codes to your new device without losing access to your accounts.

Automatic sync using Google Account

If you sign in with your Google Account in the Authenticator app on your new device (Android 6.0+ or iOS 4.0+), the codes sync automatically, no manual transfer needed.

Manual transfer (if you use Authenticator without a Google Account)

For those using Authenticator without logging into a Google Account, here’s the manual method:

What you need:

• Your old phone with Authenticator codes
• Latest Authenticator app on the old phone
• Your new phone

Instructions:

1. On the new phone: install Google Authenticator, open it and tap Get started, then sign in to your Google Account.

2. On the old phone:

• Open the Authenticator app
• Tap Menu → Transfer accounts → Export accounts
• Unlock the device
• Select accounts to transfer and tap Next
• If transferring multiple codes, the app might generate multiple QR codes

3. Back on the new phone:

• Tap Menu → Transfer accounts → Import accounts
• Scan the QR code(s) displayed on your old phone

4. Wait for the confirmation, your Authenticator codes are now on your new device.

After the transfer

• Check each generated code by logging into linked sites or apps.
• Once confirmed, it’s safe to remove Authenticator from your old phone.
• Consider enabling Privacy Screen in the Authenticator settings. This adds PIN or biometric protection.

Can I transfer Google Authenticator codes to another account?

You can’t move codes between different Google Accounts. The transfer allows only the same accounts you originally set up (those stored in Authenticator). If you need Authenticator codes under a new Google Account, you'll need to set them up individually:

1. On each service (e.g., Gmail, Dropbox), disable 2‑step verification under the old account.
2. Re-enable it under your new account.
3. When prompted, scan the QR code with Authenticator on your device.

This sets up fresh token generation tied to your new account. You can’t migrate existing codes directly.

Tips for a smooth move

• If you log in with a Google Account in Authenticator, codes stay synced. This is the easiest way.
• Always ensure your old device is unlocked and using the latest app version.
• Check each account after transfer, don’t delete old device’s Authenticator until you're 100% confident.
• Enable Privacy Screen for extra security.

For more information, check out Google’s support guide for getting verification codes with Google Authenticator.