Google Business Profile verification is what gives you control of your clinic’s listing. Until it’s done, Google says you can’t edit details such as your business hours or interact with customers.
Many owners still search for Google My Business verification, but that’s the old name for the same job, which Google renamed in November 2021.
Now picture the postcard Google mails to your clinic. If reception bins it as junk mail, the code stops working after 30 days, so you start again.
So this guide shows how to verify your Google Business Profile, what each method needs, and what to do when it stalls.
What Google Business Profile Verification Does for a Dental Practice
Once you prove you run the clinic, Google lets you edit the listing. It’s the starting point for any Google Business Profile work within search engine optimisation.
You don’t get to pick the method. Google decides which options to offer, based on your business type, public info, region and business hours. Sometimes you’ll need more than one method, so read each screen with care.
How to Verify Your Google Business Profile, Step by Step
Before you start, line up the basics. You need the Google account tied to the profile, someone to answer the clinic’s phone, and access to the mail. A charged phone helps too. Google’s guide to verifying a business sets out the process, and for a clinic it looks like this:
- Sign in to the Google Account linked to the profile.
- Search Google for your clinic’s name and city. If nothing appears, add or claim the profile first.
- Select Get verified on your Business Profile.
- Try the options Google shows you.
- Complete the method, such as entering a code or uploading a video.
- Wait for the review, which takes up to five business days, and watch for the confirmation email.
In some cases, Google approves a profile on the spot. That can happen when you verify your website in Search Console or use Google’s bulk option for many locations.
Google Business Profile Verification Methods You May See
Each method asks for something different, so check that you can provide it before you start:
- Phone or text: Someone must answer the clinic’s number or read the text. Automated phone menus won’t receive the code.
- Email: You need access to the address shown on the screen.
- Video recording: Google recommends this if you’re eligible, and it must be done on a mobile device.
- Live video call: You show your location to a support representative, and it’s only available within your business hours.
- Postcard: Google mails a five-digit code, but this isn’t offered to every business.
Google Business Verification Video: What to Film in a Dental Clinic
Google’s video requirements are strict. The footage must be live, unedited and at least 30 seconds long, recorded and uploaded from your phone through the profile.
For a storefront clinic, your video needs three things. Rehearse once, then record it in one go:
- Your location: Street signs, building numbers or nearby businesses, so Google can match the spot on Maps.
- Proof the clinic exists: Your signage, with the clinic name clearly printed on a permanent fixture and matching your profile.
- Proof you manage it: Something only staff can access, such as a storage room or payment terminal.
Dental clinics need extra care here. Google doesn’t allow other people’s faces or private info in the video. So film when the waiting room is empty, and keep patient records off-screen.
Once you’re verified, you can delete the video in your profile’s advanced settings. If you don’t, Google deletes it later. If Google rejects the video, tap Review issues. For example, the business name may be hidden, or no nearby area is shown. Your new video should include everything from the first one, plus whatever was missing.
Related: Google Business Profile for Dentists: Hidden Features Most Clinics Aren’t Using covers what to do once you’re verified.
When Google Business Verification Stalls
Most Google Business Profile verification delays come from a few slips that you can avoid.
Google Business Verification Postcard Delays
Google says most postcards arrive within 14 days. While you wait, don’t edit your business name, address or category, because the code won’t work. Don’t request a new one either, since that cancels the postcard in the mail.
Google Business Verification Code Not Received
For phone or text codes, check that a person, not a phone menu, picks up the call. For email, check the address on screen and your spam folder.
Avoid These Mistakes
- Sharing the code: Google says not to share it with anyone, even people who manage your profile.
- Changing details mid-way: Edits can force you to verify again.
- Ignoring the ‘Get verified’ button: If it reappears, Google couldn’t fully verify you, so try again or use another method.
Google Business Profile Verification Is Worth Doing Once and Doing Right
Google Business Profile verification takes more planning than effort. Check which methods you’re offered, get the video or phone line ready, and leave your details alone while you wait. If an agency helps, add them as a manager after you’re verified instead of handing over a code.
Ready to Sort Out Your Clinic’s Google Listing?
Let’s help your clinic get from a code in the mail to a complete, accurate listing.
Dental Rank specialises in dental marketing across Australia. Our search engine optimisation service includes Google Business Profile work and technical audits, which is the groundwork for strong local visibility.
Schedule a free consultation today if you’d like help with this step or what comes after it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Google Business Verification Take?
Google says reviews take up to five business days and rarely longer. Postcards add mailing time, since most arrive within 14 days. Some profiles verify instantly, for example, when you verify your website in Search Console.
Can I Choose How to Verify My Google Business Profile?
No. Google decides which options to show, based on your business type, public info, region and business hours. You may need more than one method. If you can use video, Google recommends it.
Is Google My Business Verification the Same Thing?
Yes. Google renamed Google My Business as Google Business Profile in November 2021. The process now happens through your Business Profile, usually by selecting ‘Get verified’ on the profile itself.
Can I Verify Without a Postcard?
Yes, if Google offers another method. Depending on your profile, that could be phone, text, email, video recording or a live video call. Postcards aren’t offered to every business anyway.
Should I Give My Marketing Agency the Verification Code?
No. Google says not to share the code with anyone, including people who help manage your profile. Verify the profile yourself, then add your agency as a manager or owner afterwards.
