Quick answer

Condom expiration dates are usually printed on the individual foil wrapper or the box. Look for a month/year format (e.g., 2028-12) or a Julian date code. If you can't find a date, the condom is too old to trust. Always check before use and store condoms away from heat and sharp objects.

Why expiration dates matter for condom safety

Condoms have a shelf life because the latex or polyurethane material degrades over time. An expired condom is more likely to break or tear, which defeats its purpose. The FDA requires condoms to be stamped with an expiration date, but the format can vary by brand. Knowing how to read that date—and when to throw a condom away—keeps you protected.

Storage also plays a role. Even a condom within its expiration window can fail if it's been stored in a hot car, a wallet, or near sharp objects. Always pair date checks with proper storage habits.

Where to find the expiration date on condoms

Most condoms print the expiration date on the back of the individual foil wrapper, often near the seam. The box or bulk case also carries the date. For brand-name condoms like Trojan ENZ Lubricated Condoms or Durex Extra Sensitive Condoms, the date is typically in a month/year format (e.g., EXP 2028-12). Some brands use a three-letter month code (e.g., DEC 2028).

If the wrapper is damaged, the ink is smudged, or you can't find any date, treat the condom as expired. Never guess—use a fresh one instead.

How to read condom date codes and Julian dates

Some condoms, especially bulk packs or institutional orders, use a Julian date code instead of a plain month/year. A Julian date might look like 3265, where the first three digits are the day of the year (326th day) and the last digit is the year (2025). Other codes use a letter for the year (e.g., Y for 2025, Z for 2026).

If you're unsure about a code, check the brand's website or contact the manufacturer. When in doubt, throw it out. For personal use, stick with condoms that have a clear month/year stamp.

How to check a condom expiration date: step by step

  1. Find the date on the wrapper or box: Look on the back of the individual foil wrapper or the side of the box. The date is usually printed near the seam or barcode. For bulk packs, check the case label. Common mistake: assuming the box date is the same as the wrapper date. Always check the wrapper itself.
  2. Interpret the date format: Most condoms use a month/year format like 2028-12 or EXP DEC 2028. Julian codes (e.g., 3265) or letter codes may appear on institutional orders. If the format is unclear, don't guess. Checkpoint: if you can't confidently read the date, treat the condom as expired.
  3. Compare to today's date: If the expiration date has passed, discard the condom immediately. Even if it's within date, inspect the wrapper for tears, brittleness, or sticky residue. Store condoms in a cool, dry place away from wallets and car glove compartments. Verdict: an expired condom is not worth the risk. Always use a fresh, properly stored condom.

Condom products with clear expiration labeling

  • Trojan ENZ Lubricated Condoms: Trojan ENZ Lubricated Condoms are made with premium quality latex and have a special reservoir end for extra safety. Trojan clearly prints the expiration date on each foil wrapper and the box, making it easy to check before use. The reservoir tip also adds a layer of protection when the condom is used within its shelf life.
  • Durex Extra Sensitive Condoms: Durex Extra Sensitive Condoms are ultra thin and extra sensitive, lubricated for heightened excitement. Durex uses a standard month/year expiration format on both the individual wrapper and the case. Because ultra-thin condoms can be more prone to failure if expired, checking the date is especially important.
  • Consent Condom Share Pack: Consent Condom Share Pack includes 40 foil condoms with 4 consent designs, FDA approved and shipped free. Each foil in this variety pack is individually stamped with an expiration date. The pack is great for sharing, but always remind others to check the date before use—especially if the condoms have been carried in a wallet or bag.