Digital door locks are changing the way we manage access to our homes. Whether you’re expecting friends, family, service providers, or short-term guests, you no longer have to leave spare keys under the mat. Instead, you can give temporary access through your digital lock — safely and conveniently.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps and options to enable temporary access for guests using a digital door lock.

Why Use Temporary Access?

Temporary access offers many benefits:

Convenience: No need to meet your guests at the door.
Security: You control who enters and when.
Flexibility: Perfect for visitors, babysitters, cleaners, or Airbnb guests.
No Lost Keys: You eliminate the risk of losing or duplicating physical keys.

Using temporary access features on your digital lock or smart lock ensures better security and convenience without disrupting your routine.

Common Methods to Enable Temporary Access

Different digital door locks come with different methods for granting temporary access. Here are the most common options:

1. One-Time Passwords (OTP)

Many digital locks allow you to generate a one-time password (OTP) that can be used only once.

Create an OTP through the lock’s app or keypad.
Send the password to your guest.
After they use it, the password automatically becomes invalid.

Perfect for delivery personnel, short-term visitors, or one-off services.

2. Time-Limited PIN Codes

Time-limited codes are another popular way to control access.

Set up a PIN code that only works during a specific time window (e.g., 2 PM to 5 PM).
The code automatically expires after the time you specify.
Ideal for short stays, babysitters, or cleaning services.

This method ensures that even if the code is shared later, it won’t work beyond the assigned timeframe.

3. Mobile App Access

If your digital lock connects to a mobile app, you can:

Grant remote access to the guest via their smartphone.
Set start and end times for their access.
Monitor who enters and when, all from your phone.

This feature is excellent for Airbnb hosts, frequent visitors, or homes that require regular service access.

4. RFID Cards or Key Tags

Some digital locks allow guests to use temporary RFID cards.

Program a card for short-term use.
Deactivate the card once it’s no longer needed.
Quick and easy for guests who may not be comfortable with PIN codes or apps.

Best suited for family members, elderly guests, or those who prefer physical access cards.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Temporary Access

Here’s a general process you can follow (specific steps might vary depending on your lock model):

Step 1: Open the Lock’s Mobile App or Access Settings

Most modern smart locks and digital locks come with a dedicated mobile app or a touch keypad system.

Step 2: Choose “Add User” or “Guest Access”

Look for the option to add a user, set a temporary code, or create a one-time password.

Step 3: Set Access Type

Decide whether you want:

One-time access
Time-limited access
Recurring guest access (for regular visitors)

Step 4: Set Start and End Times

If time-limited, specify the start date, end date, and active hours.

Step 5: Send Access Details

Share the access code or invite link securely with your guest.

Step 6: Monitor or Revoke Access (Optional)

Once the access time is over, some locks will automatically disable the code. You can also manually remove guest access if needed.

Tips for Managing Temporary Access Safely

Change Access Codes Regularly: Avoid reusing codes for multiple guests.
Use Strong PIN Codes: Avoid easy-to-guess combinations like 1234 or 0000.
Monitor Access Logs: Check who entered and at what time if your lock provides this feature.
Limit the Number of Active Codes: Reduce the risk of forgotten or misused codes.
Secure App Access: If your lock uses a mobile app, ensure your phone is secured with a password or fingerprint lock.

How to Enable Temporary Access for Guests with a Digital Door Lock

Why Use Temporary Access?