🌿QRMint

How to Set an Expiration Date on a QR Code

For limited-time campaigns, event tickets, and time-bound coupons.

Last updated: 2026

For most use cases you want a QR code to last forever — but sometimes you want the opposite. A campaign that ends on a date, a coupon that expires, an event that has finished. Letting the QR keep redirecting after that point creates support headaches and customer confusion. This guide explains how to set a hard expiration date with QRMint Pro dynamic QR codes, and how to design the post-expiration experience.

Step-by-step Guide

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Step 1: Decide static or dynamic

Static QR codes cannot expire — they have no server. For an expiration date you need a dynamic QR, which routes through QRMint and can be turned off on a schedule.

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Step 2: Create a dynamic QR on QRMint Pro

Sign in, go to dashboard, and create a new dynamic QR. Enter the destination URL for the active campaign period.

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Step 3: Set the expiration date and time

In the QR settings, find the Expiration field. Pick a date and time in your timezone. After that moment, the QR will stop redirecting.

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Step 4: Configure the post-expiration page

Choose what happens after expiration. Options include a "Campaign ended" landing page, a redirect to your homepage, or a 404. A friendly explanation page is usually best.

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Step 5: Test by changing the date temporarily

Set the expiration to a few minutes from now to verify the post-expiration behavior, then revert to the real date.

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Step 6: Notify your team

Make sure marketing and support know the expiration date so customer questions can be answered. Add the date to your campaign brief.

Try it now

Create QR code →

Tips & Best Practices

  • Expire at the user's end of day, not midnight UTC, to avoid surprising last-minute scanners.
  • Make the post-expiration page useful — link to current campaigns or your homepage.
  • Keep the dynamic QR record for at least 30 days after expiration in case you need analytics.
  • For recurring campaigns, reuse the same dynamic QR by editing destination and expiration each cycle.

FAQ

Can a static QR code expire?
No. Static QR codes have no server and cannot be turned off. If you need expiration, use a dynamic QR.
Is expiration included in QRMint Pro?
Yes. Expiration scheduling is included in the $4.99/month Pro plan along with all other dynamic QR features.
What does the user see after expiration?
Whatever you configured: a custom "campaign ended" page, a redirect to your homepage, or a 404. We recommend a friendly explanation.
Can I extend the expiration after it has passed?
Yes. You can edit the expiration date at any time, even after it has lapsed, and the QR will start working again.

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