<!-- https://unlockos.io/manual/guest-checkin -->

# Check-In Help

## Overview

In the UnlockOS booking system, **access keys (QR code and PIN code) are hidden until you complete the check-in step**. This is a security measure to protect your access credentials.

Check-in is the action of confirming that you are starting your reservation. Once you check in, your access keys are revealed on screen so you can enter the facility.

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## Why Check-In Is Required

Displaying access keys before arrival creates a risk that someone other than the guest could obtain them. By requiring a check-in action, UnlockOS ensures that only the guest physically present at the time of arrival can retrieve their keys. This keeps the facility more secure.

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## When Check-In Becomes Available

Check-in becomes available **24 hours before your reservation start time**.

Example: If your check-in time is March 20 at 3:00 PM
- Check-in becomes available: March 19 at 3:00 PM

Until check-in is available, the key area shows the following message along with the exact time it opens:

> "Check-in available from [date and time]"

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## Features

## Feature 1: Pre-Check-In Screen (Keys Hidden)

When you open the "Key" tab or reservation detail screen, your access keys are shown in a blurred (obscured) state. This is intentional — your key information is protected until you check in.

A white panel appears in the center of the screen showing one of the following states:

| State | What You See |
|-------|--------------|
| Before check-in window | "Check-in not yet available" with the available start time |
| Check-in window open | "Check in to receive your access keys" with a "Check In" button |

## Feature 2: How to Check In

Once the check-in window is open, follow these steps:

1. Open the "Key" tab in the app or navigate to your reservation detail screen
2. Confirm that the panel reads "Check in to receive your access keys"
3. Tap the **"Check In"** button
4. The button shows "Processing..." — wait a moment
5. A green checkmark appears with "Check-in complete!"
6. The screen automatically refreshes and your access keys are revealed

## Feature 3: Access Keys After Check-In

Once check-in is complete, the blur is removed and your access keys are displayed.

### QR Code

- Hold the QR code up to the door reader to unlock the facility
- Displayed only at facilities that support QR code entry

### PIN Code (Access Code)

- A 4–8 digit numeric code is shown in large format
- Enter this code on the door keypad to unlock

### Key Expiry

- Keys have an expiry date and time
- The expiry is shown below the key as "Valid until: [date and time]"
- Expired keys are grayed out with an "Expired" label

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## Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: It says "Check-in not yet available"
A: Check-in opens 24 hours before your reservation start time. Look at the screen for the exact time it becomes available, and try again after that time.

### Q: I tapped the Check-In button but got an error
A: Please check the following:
- Make sure you have a stable internet connection (disable airplane mode if on)
- Confirm you are still logged in (try logging out and back in)
- Wait a moment and try again
- If the issue persists, contact the facility directly

### Q: I checked in but my keys are not showing
A: After a successful check-in, the screen refreshes automatically. If it does not update, reload the page (or pull to refresh in the app). If keys still do not appear, please contact the facility.

### Q: I have multiple reservations. Do I need to check in for each one?
A: Yes, each reservation requires its own check-in. In the "Key" tab, swipe left or right to switch between reservations and check in for each one.

### Q: Can I check in after my checkout time has passed?
A: No. Check-in is only possible during your reservation period (from 24 hours before start until the reservation end time). Please make sure to check in before your reservation ends.

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## UnlockPass Auto-fill (Optional)

### Overview

If you've checked in at an UnlockOS facility before, you can **auto-fill your details just by entering your email**. Similar to Stripe Link, UnlockPass lets you reuse one identity across multiple facilities.

### How it works

1. Enter your **email address** in the guest form and move out of the field
2. If you're a returning guest, a "Welcome back" banner appears
3. Tap **"Verify with UnlockPass"**
4. Enter the **6-digit code** delivered to your email
5. Your name, phone number, and previous form answers are auto-filled
6. Review and submit

### FAQ

**Q: Do I have to verify to check in?**
A: No. Tap "Enter manually" or ignore the banner to fill the form manually as before.

**Q: Can I edit auto-filled values?**
A: Yes. Only empty fields are filled — anything you've already typed is preserved. You can edit before submitting.

**Q: I didn't receive the code.**
A: Check the spelling and your spam folder. If it still doesn't arrive, dismiss the banner and enter your details manually.

**Q: It's my first time here but I see the banner.**
A: You may have checked in at another UnlockOS facility with the same email. If that's not you, choose "Enter manually".

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## SMS Phone Verification

If the facility requires SMS verification on the mobile number field of the guest form, the check-in form screen also shows a confirmation control (a "Verify by SMS" button and a code input field). You cannot complete check-in until you enter the 6-digit code sent by SMS and confirm it.

See [SMS Phone Verification](sms-verification.md) for details.

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## Related Pages

- [Guest Booking App (Book, Check Availability, Receive Keys)](reservation-guest.md)
- [Booking Management Page (View, Cancel, or Extend a Reservation)](booking.md)
- [Access Key Display (QR, PIN & Remote Unlock)](key-display.md)
- [About QR Code Expiration](key-expiration.md)
- [SMS Phone Verification](sms-verification.md)
