By Jenefey Aaron

Updated on 2025-05-16

100 % Helpful

How to Use WhatsApp Without Phone Number [Pro Guide]

By Jenefey Aaron

2025-05-16 / WhatsApp Tips

WhatsApp has become a vital tool for messaging and staying connected with friends, family, and even colleagues. However, many people may wonder does Whatsapp need a phone number whether it’s possible to use WhatsApp without a phone number.

Whether you don’t want to share your personal number, are using WhatsApp on a second device, or simply don’t have a SIM card, there are several ways to set up WhatsApp without using your phone number. In this guide, we’ll explore how you can use Whatsapp without phone number.

Part 1: Can You Use WhatsApp Without a Phone Number?

Part 2: How to Use WhatsApp Without a Phone Number

1. Using a Landline Number
2. Using Linked Devices (WhatsApp Web/Desktop)
3. Using a Temporary or Virtual Number
4. Using Google Voice Number
Community-Recommended Methods and Tricks

Part 3: Best Tool to Manage/Backup/Transfer WhatsApp Data Easily

Part 4: FAQs About WhatsApp Phone Number & Verification

Part 1: Can You Use WhatsApp Without a Phone Number?

Yes, it is possible to use WhatsApp without a phone number, but with some limitations. By default, WhatsApp requires you to verify your account through a mobile phone number. This number is linked to your account and is used for identification, verification, and security purposes.

However, some methods allow you to bypass the need for a personal phone number.

Part 2: How to Use WhatsApp Without a Phone Number

1. Using a Landline Number

A landline number can be used to verify WhatsApp, although the process is a little different from using a mobile number. Instead, you’ll set up WhatsApp using a landline number that can receive voice calls.

Begin by installing WhatsApp on your device. If it’s already installed, uninstall and reinstall it to start fresh with the setup.
During setup, when asked for your phone number, enter your landline number along with the correct country and area code. Skip using a mobile number entirely.

Wait for the SMS verification to fail. After a short time, WhatsApp will offer an alternative option—Call Me. Tap it to proceed.
You’ll receive a call on your landline. Listen to the automated message for the verification code, enter it into WhatsApp, and your account will be verified. You can now use Whatsapp without phone number.

2. Using Linked Devices (WhatsApp Web/Desktop)

Another way to use Whatsapp without phone number on your main device is through Linked Devices. WhatsApp allows you to access your account on a second smartphone without needing to register a new phone number.

Instead of setting up WhatsApp from scratch, you can use WhatsApp Web on a tablet or another phone. Here's how to do it:

Open the browser on your second device and visit web.whatsapp.com. If it redirects to the WhatsApp homepage, tap on the browser’s menu and enable “Desktop Site” to load the QR code.
For Android users: Open WhatsApp on your main phone, tap the three-dot menu in the top right, and select Link Devices; For iPhone users: Go to Settings at the bottom right, tap Linked Devices, then choose Link a Device.

use whatsapp without phone number with linked devices

Use your primary phone to scan the QR code displayed on the second device. Once scanned, WhatsApp will mirror your chats on the new device via the browser.

3. Using a Temporary or Virtual Number

Another option is to use a temporary or virtual phone number. If you don’t have a landline, this method is a great way to use Whatsapp without phone number. Instead of a traditional number, you’ll use a temporary or virtual number to verify your account.

One of the most reliable apps for this is TextNow, which works on both Android and iOS. Follow these steps to get started:

Download and install the TextNow app on your Android or iPhone. When you open it, enter your area code to receive a list of five virtual numbers. Pick one and complete the setup.

Now, install WhatsApp on your device and begin the registration process. When prompted, enter the virtual number you received from TextNow.
Wait for the SMS verification to fail, then select the option to receive a call instead. Make sure the TextNow app is running in the background. Shortly, you’ll receive a verification call with a code.
Enter the code into WhatsApp to complete the setup and start using the app without needing your own phone number.

Tips:

While this is a quick solution, virtual numbers may not always work for WhatsApp verification. WhatsApp may block certain virtual numbers. If the service expires or is blocked, you may lose access to your account.

4. Using Google Voice Number

A Google Voice number is useful for most people, especially if you often receive international calls. Instead of replacing your actual number, Google provides a free, permanent number linked to your Google account. You can also use it to register on apps like WhatsApp.

Follow these steps to get started:

Download the Google Voice app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
Sign in and choose a Google Voice number.
Link your real phone number by entering it and tapping “Send code” to verify.

use whatsapp without phone number with google voice number

Download WhatsApp. If it’s already installed, delete and reinstall it to start fresh.
When prompted, enter your Google Voice number and verify it by selecting the appropriate location.
Enter the verification code sent to your Google Voice inbox or voicemail. You can check this via the Google Voice dashboard.

Tips:

Google Voice numbers may not work for every user, as WhatsApp sometimes blocks certain VOIP services. Additionally, if your Google Voice account is deactivated or suspended, you may lose access to WhatsApp.

Community-Recommended Methods and Tricks

Many users have shared creative ways to bypass phone number verification. Some of these community-driven methods include:

Using a Friend’s Number: Some users have recommended using a friend’s phone number temporarily to verify WhatsApp and then switching it out for another number later.
Using Old Numbers: If you have an old number that you no longer use, you might be able to use it for WhatsApp verification. Just be careful with re-using numbers, as it can cause issues if the number is linked to another WhatsApp account.
Dual SIM Phones: Some users have been able to use dual SIM phones by placing one SIM in another device and verifying WhatsApp using the second number.

Part 3: Best Tool to Manage/Backup/Transfer WhatsApp Data Easily

If you’re looking to manage, back up, or transfer your WhatsApp data, iCareFone Transfer is a highly recommended tool to consider.

This user-friendly solution allows you to effortlessly transfer WhatsApp (including GBWhatsApp) data across multiple devices, whether you're moving from Android to iPhone or vice versa.

Key Features of iCareFone Transfer

Cross-platform support: Works with both iOS and Android.
Easy to use: A step-by-step guide makes the process simple for beginners.
Supports WhatsApp Business & GBWhatsApp: It works with all versions of WhatsApp.
End-to-end encryption: Your data remains safe and secure during transfer.
Backup from multiple sources: Supports backup from Google Drive, iCloud, or directly from your device.

Easy Steps to Transfer WhatsApp Data

Free download and install iCareFone Transfer on your computer. Connect the both Android and iPhone using data cables.
Then create a backup for the source device so the program can get it.

Next, verify your WhatsApp account via 64-Digit Encryption Key (recommended) or SMS Verification.
Now you can select the data you want to transfer.
Make sure you are logged into WhatsApp on the target device. Or your WhatsApp data will disappear.
Turn of Find My on your iPhone, then you can find all the data is successfully transferred.

Part 4: FAQs About WhatsApp Phone Number & Verification

Q1: Can you use WhatsApp with just an email address?

No, WhatsApp cannot be used with just an email address. The app requires a phone number for verification to ensure a secure and linked identity.

Q2: How can I send a WhatsApp message without a phone number?

There’s no official way to send WhatsApp messages without a phone number. You’ll need a number for account creation, but once verified, you can communicate freely within the app.

Q3: How can I get a free number for WhatsApp?

You can get a free number for WhatsApp by using services like Google Voice or temporary number apps. However, be aware that some services may block virtual numbers from WhatsApp.

Q4: Why is WhatsApp not sending the verification code?

If WhatsApp isn’t sending the verification code, check for possible issues like network problems, incorrect numbers, or blocked virtual numbers. Ensure your number is in the correct format and that your phone can receive SMS or calls.