Customize an SMS message

Okta sends SMS messages to end users for MFA verification. You can customize the text of these SMS messages in each Okta-supported language.

When crafting your custom message, observe these guidelines:

  • The maximum length of the message is 159 characters.
  • The one-time password (OTP) placeholder, ${code}, is included in the message length count.
  • Although Okta supports many variables for use in email templates, SMS messages support only ${code} (required) and ${org.name} (optional).
  • The message can include only alphanumeric and punctuation characters. Avoid using special characters.

Edit the Okta Standard SMS (Default)

To view the Standard SMS message, click the Default expand button. The default message is: Your verification code is ${code}.

  1. In the Admin Console, go to CustomizationsSMS.
  2. In Custom Language, click the pencil icon under Actions.
  3. Edit the text of the default SMS message. Include the required variable ${code}. The variable ${org.name} is optional.
  4. Click Save.

Add translations for your custom SMS message

You can the change language of the SMS message that is sent to your end users.

  1. In the Admin Console, go to CustomizationsSMS.

  2. In Custom Language, click Add Translation.
  3. Select a language from the Language drop-down box.
  4. Using the chosen language, enter a message in the field. Include the required variable ${code}. The variable ${org.name} is optional.
  5. Click Add Translation.

Related topics

Velocity Template Language

Customize an email template