How long does an iOS certificate last? Validity, warranty and revocations explained
iOS developer certificates are valid up to 1 year, but the real question is revocation. Learn how validity works, what lemoncert's 60/150/300-day warranty covers and how to pick a package.
Validity (expiry date)
Apple issues developer certificates and provisioning profiles for up to one year. The exact date is printed in the .mobileprovision file and shown in your signer app. After expiry, apps stop opening and need re-signing with a new certificate.
Revocation (the real risk)
A certificate can be revoked by Apple before it expires. That's why lemoncert sells a warranty rather than just a validity date: if the certificate is revoked inside the warranty window, you get a new one for free.
| Package | Warranty | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Cert SALE | None | Testing, throwaway use |
| Cert 60 | 60 days | Trying sideloading for a couple of months |
| Cert 150 | 150 days | Regular users |
| Cert Pro | 300 days | Daily drivers, LiveContainer, peace of mind |
What the warranty covers
- ✅ Revocation by Apple at any time inside the window — unlimited re-issues.
- ✅ Re-issue for the same UDID.
- ❌ A different device (new UDID = new certificate).
- ❌ Apps that crash for reasons unrelated to the certificate.
How to choose
If you'll use sideloaded apps every day, Cert Pro costs a few dollars more and covers you for most of the certificate's life. For a one-off install, Cert SALE is enough. Get a certificate.
Frequently asked
Does the warranty extend the certificate's expiry?
No. Warranty covers revocations; expiry is fixed by Apple at issue time (up to one year).
Can I check the expiry date on my phone?
Yes — Settings → General → VPN & Device Management → tap the certificate. Signer apps also show it.