Last updated: Mar 25, 2026, 3:22 PM
Frequently asked questions on Device licensing.
| Device Licensing is currently in limited release with select customers. Check back soon for updates! |
Device Licensing is a system that makes sure every Toast device using our software has a matching, active subscription. It helps Toast ensure all active devices are paired with the necessary subscription by:
Your device is showing this message because it’s currently not linked to an active Toast software subscription. Each hardware device running Toast software needs a matching software subscription to stay active. Common reasons devices may be missing a subscription include devices being purchased secondhand, moved between locations, or having a subscription that was removed or updated. We are not collecting any previously unbilled device usage.
Yes. You’ll receive clear notifications on the impacted device if it’s missing an active subscription. Once notified, you’ll have 14 days to take action before the device becomes locked. During that time, your device will continue to work normally so you can resolve the issue without disruption. Once a device is locked, it can be unlocked by purchasing a software subscription for the locked device.
On-screen notifications are only supported on devices running POS software version 2.96 or higher. If your device is on an older version, notifications will not appear. Need to update your Toast app? See instructions: If a license needs to be purchased for the device, but you are not seeing the notification, you can purchase the subscription through Device Hub on Toast Web.
No. Your 14-day grace period begins once you log in to Toast on the device in question.
If no action is taken within the 14-day grace period, the unlicensed device will lock, and you’ll see a message on-screen prompting you to purchase a subscription before continuing use. Once the subscription is purchased, the device unlocks and you can resume normal use.
You can purchase a license directly from your Toast account:
Or you can leverage the in-device QR code:
Anyone with Financial Accounts permissions (8.1) in Toast Web can view, manage, and purchase device subscriptions. However, you'll need the following permissions to perform the respective actions:
You can manage subscriptions and devices in two places:
Existing discounts won’t automatically apply to new device subscriptions. If your restaurant already receives a discount on the device type you’re purchasing a new subscription for, you can book with your Customer Success Manager to request that the same rate be applied. In some cases, Toast may be able to match or honor existing discounts.
No. Device Licensing is focused on aligning billing going forward. You won’t be billed retroactively for any prior unlicensed device usage.
Please reach out to Customer Support to help ensure your other devices remain operational.
All new devices purchased directly from Toast are automatically paired with an available subscription at setup. If there is no subscription available for a device to pair with, your new device will prompt you to purchase the necessary subscription.
Device Licensing helps ensure accurate billing and smooth operations by making sure every active device has a matching subscription. This reduces confusion, prevents billing errors, and ensures all Toast devices run fully supported software.