Overview
When you upload your full-length photo on a desktop device, MedExpress shows you a QR code on your screen. Scanning it with your phone switches you to your phone's camera, since mobile phone cameras produce significantly better-quality photos for verification purposes.
Use this article when you want to:
Scan the QR code correctly using your phone's built-in camera
Fix a "page not found" or 404 error after scanning
Generate a new QR code if yours has expired
Fix an issue where your camera doesn't activate after scanning
How Do I Scan the QR Code Correctly?
Important: Always use your phone's built-in native camera app to scan the QR code. Third-party QR scanning apps often cause the upload page to fail with a "page not found" or 404 error.
iPhone (iOS)
Open the built-in Camera app (not a third-party QR scanner).
Point your camera at the QR code on your screen.
Tap the notification or banner that appears at the top of your screen.
The upload page will open in Safari — follow the on-screen steps to take and submit your photo.
Android
Open the built-in Camera app (not a third-party QR scanner).
Point your camera at the QR code on your screen.
Tap the link or banner that appears.
The upload page will open in your default browser — follow the on-screen steps to take and submit your photo.
Tip: If your camera is struggling to read the QR code, try tapping directly on it within the camera viewfinder. This prompts your phone to refocus on the code and should make it easier to scan.
What Are Common QR Code Errors, and How Do I Fix Them?
"Page Not Found" or 404 Error After Scanning
This is almost always caused by scanning with a third-party QR scanner app instead of your phone's built-in camera.
Close the third-party QR scanner app.
Follow the steps above to scan the QR code correctly using your phone's built-in camera app.
My QR Code Has Expired
QR codes expire after a short period for security reasons. If your QR code is no longer working, you can generate a fresh one without leaving your desktop.
Return to the MedExpress page on your desktop.
Click the "Generate new QR code" button displayed on the screen.
A new QR code will appear — scan it using your phone's built-in camera app as normal.
Camera Doesn't Activate After Scanning
If the upload page opened but your camera isn't activating, this is usually a browser or device permissions issue. For step-by-step guidance on enabling camera access on your browser or device, see MedExpress's "How to Enable Camera Permissions for Photo Uploads" guide.