> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.goguardian.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Set Up Multi-Factor Authentication > Understand how MFA works when signing in to Pear Assessment with email and password, and how to generate a backup code for a locked-out user. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is required for all Pear Assessment users who sign in with an email address and password. When MFA is active, users enter their credentials and then verify their identity with a 6-digit code sent to their email address. MFA is not required when signing in with Google SSO, Clever, or ClassLink. ## Verify Your Identity with Email-Based MFA When you sign in to Pear Assessment with email and password, MFA is triggered automatically. 1. Enter your email and password on the Pear Assessment sign-in page. 2. Open the verification email from Pear Assessment and copy the 6-digit code. 3. Enter the code on the verification screen before it expires. Codes are valid for 10 minutes. Once accepted, you are signed in to Pear Assessment. 4. Optionally, select **Trust this device for 30 days** to skip the verification code on this device for the next 30 days. If you don't receive the code, check your spam folder. If the code still doesn't arrive, click **Resend code** on the verification screen. ## Generate a Backup Code for a Locked-Out User District Admins can generate a one-time backup code for a user who cannot receive the verification email. The code expires 10 minutes after generation and works once. 1. Sign in to Pear Assessment as a District Admin. 2. Navigate to **Manage District** → **Users**. 3. Locate the affected user and click **Edit**. 4. Click **Generate MFA Backup Code**. A dialog shows the code. 5. Share the code directly with the affected user. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Is MFA Optional? No. MFA is required for all users who sign in to Pear Assessment with email and password. ### How Long Is the Verification Code Valid? Codes are valid for 10 minutes. If yours expires, click **Resend code** on the verification screen. ### What if I Didn't Receive the Code? Check your inbox and spam folders. If the code still hasn't arrived, click **Resend code**. If the issue persists, contact your District Admin or GoGuardian Support. ### Can I Skip MFA on a Trusted Device? Yes. After verifying your identity, select **Trust this device for 30 days**. You won't need the code again on that device for 30 days. ### Who Can Generate a Backup Code? District Admins can generate backup codes for locked-out users. If you are locked out and can't reach your District Admin, contact GoGuardian Support. ## Resources Overview of user roles in Pear Assessment and what each role can access. Resolve sign-in errors, account access problems, and password issues.