Ask A Vet uses 6-digit codes in several places, and they don't all behave the same way. Here's exactly how long each one lasts and how many tries you get.
The short version
Every code Ask A Vet emails you is 6 digits and single use — once it's been accepted, it can't be used again.
How long each code lasts
| Code | Expiry | Wrong attempts | Resends |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sign-up | No fixed expiry — a newer code replaces it | — | One every 30 seconds |
| Password reset | No fixed expiry — a newer code replaces it | — | One every 30 seconds |
| Two-factor sign-in | No fixed expiry — a newer code replaces it | — | One every 30 seconds |
| Account deletion | 10 minutes | 5 in total | Up to 3, one every 30 seconds |
Only the most recent email works
Sign-up, password-reset and sign-in codes have no fixed expiry timer. What replaces them is a newer code: the moment you request another one, the previous code stops working.
So the rule to remember is simple — only the most recent email works. If you've tapped resend a few times, scroll to the newest message in your inbox.
Tip: the sign-up email says it plainly: "This code is single-use. You can ignore this email if you didn't try to sign up."
Extra rules for account-deletion codes
Because deleting an account is irreversible, these are stricter:
- the code expires after 10 minutes
- you get 5 wrong attempts in total before the deletion request is cancelled and you have to start over — resending does not reset that count
- you can resend up to 3 times
You then have 5 minutes after entering a correct deletion code to confirm the final "Are you sure?" prompt. Take longer and you'll need to verify again.
Resend limits
Resending is blocked for 30 seconds after the code sheet opens and after each send. During that time the button reads "Resend OTP in N sec" and can't be tapped.
Two-factor sign-in codes have the same 30-second rule: a fresh sign-in code can only be issued once every 30 seconds.
Important: entering a wrong two-factor sign-in code does not send you a new one. Tap Resend OTP to get a fresh code.
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