How to Use WhatsApp Without a Phone Number: 8 Working Methods (2025)

Want to use WhatsApp without sharing your personal phone number? You’re not alone. Many users—especially those managing multiple accounts, working remotely, or protecting their privacy—want a way to chat on WhatsApp without revealing their real number. The great news is: Yes, you absolutely can!

In this guide, you’ll learn 8 tested, working methods (updated for 2025) to use WhatsApp without your real phone number—plus what to do if you lose access to your account or messages.

Can You Use WhatsApp Without a Phone Number? (Quick Answer)

Yes, you can. WhatsApp requires a number for verification—but it doesn’t have to be your personal mobile one. You can use a virtual number, VoIP line, or even a landline to activate your account.

Here’s what “without a phone number” really means:

• You don’t use your personal SIM or mobile number.

• You use a secondary or virtual number instead.

• Once verified, you can use WhatsApp freely—calls, chats, media, everything.

What Works in 2025

• Virtual number apps (TextNow, Google Voice)

• Landline voice call verification

• VoIP services (Skype, RingCentral)

• International SIMs or companion mode on tablets

⚠️ Important Limitations

• Not all virtual numbers are accepted by WhatsApp.

• Free numbers may expire or get reassigned.

• Always follow WhatsApp’s Terms of Service—avoid using fake or shared public numbers.

Comparison Table: All Methods to Use WhatsApp Without Phone Number

Method 1: Use TextNow for WhatsApp Without Phone Number

TextNow is a super popular app that gives you a free virtual phone number in the US and Canada. Since it can receive calls and texts, it works perfectly for WhatsApp verification!

What is TextNow?

It's a free app that operates over Wi-Fi or mobile data, not a traditional carrier. It works by giving you a real, local phone number that you can use to make calls and send texts. You can easily use this number for the one-time WhatsApp verification.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use WhatsApp Without a Phone Number Using TextNow

1. Download and install the TextNow app (iOS/Android).

   

2. Create a TextNow account using your email.

3. Select your free virtual phone number (you may choose an area code).

4. Note down the TextNow number. Download and install WhatsApp. (If you have an existing account, you may need to reinstall or use the "Change Number" feature).

5. Open WhatsApp and tap "Agree and Continue." Enter your TextNow number when prompted, making sure the country code is correct. WhatsApp will try to send an SMS. Wait for this to fail (it's common for virtual numbers).

6. Select the "Call Me" option when it appears.

7. Open the TextNow app to receive the voice call and hear the 6-digit code.

8. Enter the verification code in WhatsApp. Complete profile setup and start using WhatsApp without your real phone number!

TextNow Tips and Limitations

• ✅ Pros: Free permanent virtual number, works for both calls and messages, easy setup.

• ❌ Cons: Only US/Canada numbers, free version has ads, number may be reclaimed if inactive for 30+ days.

• 💡 Pro Tip: Use TextNow regularly to keep the number active, or consider a low-cost subscription to lock in the number.

Method 2: Google Voice for WhatsApp Verification

For US users, Google Voice is often seen as the gold standard because Google’s reliable infrastructure backs it and is completely free. It provides a free US phone number that's tied to your Google account. It's the most reliable long-term solution for a permanent, non-mobile WhatsApp number.

How to Login to WhatsApp Without Phone Number Using Google Voice

1. Visit voice.google.com (or use the app) and sign in with your Google account (US only).

2. Choose your desired Google Voice number and verify it with an existing phone number (this is a one-time process to prove you are a US user).

3. Download and install WhatsApp on your device.

4. Enter your Google Voice number during the WhatsApp setup.

5. Select the verification method (if SMS fails, choose the "Call Me" option).

   

6. Check the Google Voice app or web portal for the verification code (it may come as a voicemail or text).

7. Enter the code in WhatsApp to complete your profile setup.

Why Google Voice is Best for Permanent Use

• ✅ Pros: Completely free, stable and permanent number, backed by Google's reliability, works on multiple devices.

• ❌ Cons: Only available in the US, requires an existing phone for the initial Google Voice setup.

💡 Ideal for business or secondary accounts.

Method 3: Use Landline Number for WhatsApp

This method is surprisingly simple and completely legitimate! It’s a great option if you have a home or office phone. But since landlines can't receive SMS texts, you verify your WhatsApp account using the Voice Call option.

Step-by-Step: WhatsApp Without Phone Number Using Landline

1. Install the standard WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business app on your device.

2. Start the registration process. Enter your full landline number (include the country code and area code).

3. WhatsApp will first try to send an SMS. Wait for this process to timeout (it usually takes about 5 minutes).

4. Once the timer is done, tap the "Call Me" option.

5. Answer your landline phone. You will receive an automated call that will give you a 6-digit verification code.

6. Write down the code and enter it in WhatsApp to finish the setup.

Landline Method Pros and Cons

• ✅ Pros: Legitimate and ToS-compliant, free, permanent solution, no third-party apps needed.

• ❌ Cons: You can't receive WhatsApp calls on the landline itself, requires access to the landline during verification.

• 💡 Note: The landline method is officially supported by the WhatsApp Business app, but often works for the standard app, too.

Method 4: Second Phone Number Apps (Dingtone, 2ndLine, Hushed)

Virtual number apps let you get numbers from different regions for WhatsApp verification.

How to Use WhatsApp Without a Phone Number with Dingtone

1. Download the Dingtone app and create an account. You can earn free credits or purchase them.

2. Get a virtual phone number from your preferred country.

3. Install WhatsApp.

4. Enter your Dingtone number for verification.

5. Receive the code via the Dingtone app and complete the WhatsApp setup.

Important Warnings

• ⚠️ Some free virtual numbers may be detected and blocked by WhatsApp.

• ⚠️ Numbers can expire if you rely on credits and they run out.

• 💡 Recommendation: Use a paid option from a reputable provider like Hushed for long-term reliability and better security.

Method 5: Use WhatsApp on iPad/Tablet Without SIM Card

The WhatsApp Companion Mode update for 2024–2025 lets you use WhatsApp on any device including tablets, iPads, or a secondary phone without needing your main SIM. However, for a completely new account on a tablet, you need a different method:

1. Use any method above (TextNow, Google Voice, etc.) to get a virtual number.

2. Install WhatsApp on your tablet.

3. Enter the virtual number during registration.

4. Verify using the virtual number app.

5. Your tablet will now have an independent WhatsApp account!

✅ Works with iPad and Android tablets

✅ No SIM or phone needed after setup

Method 6: Temporary Number Services (For Testing Only)

Temporary number websites are a quick fix for one-time verification or testing, but come with big security risks.

How to Get Temporary Number for WhatsApp

1. Visit a temporary number website (like Receive-SMS-Online.com).

2. Select an available number from the list and copy it.

3. Enter it in WhatsApp registration.

4. Return to the website to check for the SMS code and enter it quickly in WhatsApp.

Critical Warnings

• ❌ High Security Risk: These are public numbers. Anyone can access messages sent to them, including your verification code, which means they could take over your account!

• ❌ Not for Personal Use: Only use this for testing or a throwaway account.

• 💡 Alternative: Choose TextNow or a paid service instead for any communication you care about.

Use Gbyte Recovery as a Safety Net Against Data Loss

Temporary number websites may seem convenient for quick WhatsApp verification, but they come with serious risks—hacked your account, chats, or media can be stolen or wiped out anytime. If that happens, Gbyte Recovery as a professional WhatsApp data recovery offers a powerful solution to get your data back. It allows you to:

• Recover deleted WhatsApp chats, media, and attachments even after an account reset or reinstallation.

• Scan and preview data for free before deciding to buy.

• Supports PC (Windows and Mac), as well as an easier recovery process on iPhone.

If you’re using a temporary number just for testing, always keep a recovery plan ready. Gbyte Recovery gives you a secure way to reverse unexpected data loss.

Method 7: Fixed Telephone (VoIP) Services

For business use, VoIP providers like Skype, Line2, or Grasshopper are great.

Using Skype Number for WhatsApp

1. Purchase a Skype Number subscription for your desired country/area code.

2. Use your Skype Number in the WhatsApp registration.

3. Receive the verification call via the Skype app.

4. Enter the code and activate your account.

✅ Professional solution

✅ Reliable and permanent

❌ Paid subscription required

Method 8: International SIM Card Method

For Travelers or International Users

You can use international or data-only SIM cards for WhatsApp verification.

Setup

1. Buy an international SIM (e.g., Google Fi).

2. Insert and activate it.

3. Use its number for WhatsApp verification.

4. After setup, you can remove the SIM and use WiFi.

✅ Great for travel and privacy

✅ Works globally

❌ Requires initial SIM purchase

Lost Access to WhatsApp? Here’s How to Recover Your Data

Losing access to a virtual number can be scary, especially if you have critical chat history. What if your virtual number expires, or your phone is damaged before you could back up?

Professional Data Recovery Services

When DIY methods fail, a professional recovery service might be your last resort. They can help recover lost data like:

• Deleted chat conversations.

• Lost media files (photos, videos, voice notes).

• Corrupted backup files.

Gbyte Recovery Services: A Reliable Solution

If you're facing a complex data loss scenario—perhaps your virtual number expired and you can't get the code to re-verify, or you accidentally deleted important chats—you might consider an expert solution.

Gbyte Recovery provides professional WhatsApp data recovery. They can often recover lost WhatsApp conversations and media files even from device backups or complex scenarios, offering expert assistance for critical business or personal data.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need your personal SIM to use WhatsApp in 2025. With the right tools—like TextNow, Google Voice, or VoIP services—you can protect your privacy, manage multiple accounts, or use WhatsApp on devices without a SIM.

And if you ever lose data or access, Gbyte Recovery ensures your WhatsApp chats and media are never truly gone.

FAQs About Using WhatsApp Without a Phone Number

Can I use WhatsApp without a SIM card?

Yes! WhatsApp now allows you to verify your account with a virtual phone number or landline number. You can also use Companion Mode to link a secondary device without needing your main SIM.

How do I get a virtual phone number for WhatsApp?

You can use apps like TextNow, Google Voice, or similar services to get a free virtual phone number. During WhatsApp setup, enter this number for verification.

Can I use WhatsApp on a tablet or secondary phone without a SIM?

Absolutely. With WhatsApp Companion Mode, you can link your account to a tablet, iPad, or secondary phone. No main SIM card is required on the linked device.

What if I don’t receive the verification code?

Make sure the virtual number is active and can receive calls or SMS. If SMS fails, WhatsApp offers a call verification option.

Can I recover WhatsApp messages without a phone number?

Yes. If you lose access to your number, you can still restore chat history using backups tied to your Apple ID (iCloud) or Google account, or by using a professional tool like Gbyte Recovery to retrieve lost messages.

Is using a virtual number safe for WhatsApp?

Yes, as long as you choose a reputable service. Virtual numbers work like regular phone numbers for WhatsApp verification, but avoid sharing sensitive personal info with third-party apps unnecessarily.