I can't sign up for PickMe! It won't send the SMS code to my UK number.
Everyone says I need the PickMe app for tuk-tuks, but I can't register. I enter my home phone number, but the OTP (verification code) never arrives.
I’ve tried 5 times. Is the app broken? How do I fix this without buying a local SIM?
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1 Answer from travellers
This is a known glitch with the PickMe gateway for certain international carriers (especially US/UK/Aus).
- The Fix: You essentially need a local number.
- Option 1 (Best): Buy a cheap tourist SIM (Dialog or Mobitel) at the airport ($5). Use that local +94 number to register. It works instantly.
- Option 2 (The Hack): If you have a friendly hotel receptionist or driver, ask if you can use their number to receive the OTP just to activate the account. Once logged in, you can pay with your foreign credit card.
- Note: Uber usually works fine with foreign numbers, so use Uber as your backup if PickMe fails.
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