Skip to main content

How to use an access or presale code

Use access or presale codes to unlock ticket types that aren't available to the general public.

Updated this week

Access codes, sometimes called presale codes, grant early access to exclusive ticket types before they go on sale to everyone else. These codes are often reserved for fan clubs, sponsors, VIPs, or local residents.

Heads up: Not all events offer access or presale codes. If you don't see any locked ticket types or an access code field, this option may not be available for your event.

Using an access code

  1. Go to the Tixr event page for the event your code applies to.

  2. Find the ticket type marked with a lock icon.

  3. Click the blue plus (+) button next to the locked ticket type.

  4. In the pop-up, enter your access code in the Enter access code field and click Submit.

  5. Once accepted, the lock icon will disappear and the ticket type will unlock.

  6. Add your unlocked tickets to your cart and complete checkout.

Important: Access codes only work on the ticket types they're assigned to. Other locked ticket types may remain unavailable even after entering a valid code.

Where access codes come from

Tixr does not create or distribute access codes. They are provided and managed by the event organizer, who may share them with:

  • Fan club members

  • Local residents

  • Loyalty or rewards members

  • VIP partners or pre-approved groups

Understanding the difference between access codes and promo codes

While both codes are entered during the purchase process, they serve completely different purposes:

  • Access code: Unlocks hidden or presale tickets so they can be purchased

  • Promo code: Applies a discount or special offer at checkout

If you try to enter an access code in the promo code field, the system will show an error because it's expecting a discount code instead of an unlock code.

Troubleshooting access code issues

If your access code doesn't unlock the ticket type, try these steps:

Make sure you're entering it in the right place

  • Access codes must be entered when selecting your ticket, not at checkout

  • Don't confuse it with the promo code field, which appears later in the process

Check for typos or extra spaces

  • The system is case-sensitive

  • Common mix-ups include I (capital i) vs 1 (one) and O (capital o) vs 0 (zero)

  • Tip: Copy and paste the code directly from your email to avoid errors

Confirm the code applies to your event and ticket type

  • Access codes only unlock the ticket types they're assigned to

  • If a ticket remains locked, the code may not apply to that section or price level

Contact the event organizer if you've tried everything

  • Since organizers manage access codes, they can confirm whether your code is active or still valid

Looking for promo codes instead? Learn how to use a promo code.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use an access code on multiple ticket types?

    Access codes typically unlock only the specific ticket types they're assigned to. If you have multiple locked ticket types available, you may need different codes for each one, or your code may only apply to certain sections or price levels.

  2. How long is my access code valid?

    Access code validity periods are set by the event organizer. Many presale codes expire when the presale period ends or when tickets go on sale to the general public. Check the communication where you received your code for specific timeframes.

  3. What if I enter my access code but the ticket type is sold out?

    Unlocking a ticket type with an access code doesn't guarantee availability. If tickets sell out during the presale period, they won't be available even with a valid code. Check with the event organizer to see if additional inventory will be released.

  4. Can I share my access code with friends or family?

    This depends on the event organizer's policy. Some codes are single-use only, while others can be shared. However, many presale codes are tied to specific memberships or groups and sharing them may violate the organizer's terms.

  5. Do I need an access code if I'm buying tickets as a guest?

    Yes. Access codes work the same way whether you're logged into a Tixr account or checking out as a guest. You'll still need to enter the code to unlock the ticket type before adding it to your cart.

Did this answer your question?