> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.devolutions.net/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.devolutions.net/pam/concepts/check-out-approvals.md).

# Check-out approvals

**Check-out approvals** in Devolutions Pam enforce an additional security step by requiring designated personnel to authorize the use of [privileged accounts](https://docs.devolutions.net/pam/concepts/privileged-account/). This process helps organizations maintain oversight and control over sensitive credentials, ensuring that access is granted only when justified and approved.

When enabled, MFA can also be required when the user initiates a check-out request, adding a second layer of identity verification.

Typically, approvals are performed by a manager, team lead, or dedicated security team member. When a user initiates a [check-out request](https://docs.devolutions.net/pam/concepts/checkout-checkin/), the request must be reviewed and explicitly approved before credentials are made available. This mechanism helps prevent unauthorized or unsupervised access and supports [compliance](https://docs.devolutions.net/pam/concepts/compliance-reporting/) with internal security policies.

Check-out approvals are especially useful in high-security environments or for critical systems where accountability and audit trails are essential. By adding this layer of control, Devolutions PAM helps protect privileged assets while streamlining administrative oversight.

#### Aliases

* Dual control (CyberArk)
* Privileged access approval

#### Related topics

* [Approve access to a privileged account in Devolutions Cloud](https://docs.devolutions.net/pam/pam-with-devolutions-cloud/privileged-accounts/approve-access-privileged-account/)
* [Request access to a privileged account in Devolutions Cloud](https://docs.devolutions.net/pam/pam-with-devolutions-cloud/privileged-accounts/request-access-privileged-account/)
* [Check-out requests report in Devolutions Cloud](https://docs.devolutions.net/pam/pam-with-devolutions-cloud/privileged-access-reports/check-out-requests/)

#### See also

* [Privileged accounts (Devolutions Server)](https://docs.devolutions.net/pam/server/accounts/)
* [Privileged accounts (Devolutions Cloud)](https://docs.devolutions.net/pam/pam-with-devolutions-cloud/privileged-accounts/)
* [Glossary of Common Privileged Access Management (PAM) Terms](https://blog.devolutions.net/2021/01/glossary-of-common-privileged-access-management-pam-terms/)
* [Need Cybersecurity Insurance? Then You Probably Need PAM, Too](https://blog.devolutions.net/2023/10/need-cybersecurity-insurance-then-you-probably-need-pam-too/)


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