Do QR Codes Expire? What You Need to Know in 2026

One of the most common questions about QR codes is whether they expire. The short answer: it depends on the type of QR code you create. Here's everything you need to know about QR code expiration in 2026.

Static QR Codes Don't Expire

A static QR code encodes information directly into the pattern itself. Once created, the data is permanently embedded. These codes will work forever—as long as the destination still exists.

Static QR codes stop working when:

• The website URL they link to is deleted or changed
• The domain expires
• The page is moved to a new address

The QR code itself doesn't expire. The destination does.

Dynamic QR Codes: It Depends on Your Provider

Dynamic QR codes use a redirect URL that points to your final destination. This means you can change where the code goes without reprinting it. However, this also means the code depends on the redirect service staying online.

Dynamic QR codes can stop working if:

• Your QR code provider shuts down
• You cancel your subscription
• The provider deletes inactive codes
• You exceed scan limits (on some platforms)

At QR Code Better, dynamic codes remain active as long as your account is active. We don't delete codes or impose scan limits that would cause them to stop working.

Free QR Code Generators: The Hidden Risk

Many free QR code generators create dynamic codes that route through their servers. The catch? They may:

• Delete codes after 30-90 days of inactivity
• Shut down the service entirely
• Add ads or redirects to your destination
• Limit scans before requiring payment

If you're printing QR codes on physical materials—menus, business cards, packaging, signage—a "free" code that expires could cost you far more in reprinting than a paid service.

How to Create QR Codes That Last

Option 1: Static Codes for Permanent URLs

If your destination URL will never change, a static code is the safest choice. The code contains the URL directly, so it works independently of any service.

Best for:

• Links to major platforms (YouTube, social media profiles)
• Permanent website pages you control
• WiFi passwords
• Contact information (vCards)

Option 2: Dynamic Codes with a Reliable Provider

If you need to track scans or might change the destination later, choose a dynamic code from a provider with clear policies on code longevity.

Questions to ask:

• Do codes stay active if I cancel?
• Are there scan limits?
• How long has the company been operating?
• What happens to my codes if the service shuts down?

What About QR Codes on Products?

Product packaging, printed materials, and physical signage have long lifespans. A QR code on a product might be scanned months or years after printing.

For product QR codes:

• Use your own domain for redirect URLs when possible
• Choose dynamic codes so you can update destinations
• Select a provider with a track record of reliability
• Keep your account active as long as products are in circulation

Signs Your QR Code Has "Expired"

If a QR code stops working, check these common causes:

• 404 error: The destination page was deleted or moved
• Domain expired: The website hosting the destination is gone
• Service discontinued: The QR code provider shut down
• Account closed: Your subscription lapsed and codes were deactivated
• Scan limit reached: Some free services cap scans

The Bottom Line

QR codes themselves don't have built-in expiration dates. They fail when the destination disappears or the redirect service stops working. To create QR codes that last:

1. Use static codes for truly permanent links
2. Choose reliable providers for dynamic codes
3. Avoid free generators for anything you'll print
4. Keep accounts active while codes are in circulation

Create QR codes that won't expire — all QR Code Better codes remain active as long as your account is active, with no scan limits or surprise deactivations.