Step-by-step guide


  1. Prepare to create your account by reviewing the requirements:
    1. Email address
      • We recommend a personal email address that you’ll always be able to access rather than a work email address.
      • If you already have an account with Login.gov with that email address, we’ll send you an email to let you know how you can reset your password and access the account.
    2. Secure password
      • Passwords must be at least 12 characters and should not include commonly used words or phrases.
    3. One or more authentication methods such as:
      • More secure
        • Security Key
        • Authentication application
        • Federal government employee or military identification (PIV/CAC)
      • Less secure
        • SMS/Text messages
        • Backup codes
  2. Start creating your account by going to https://secure.login.gov/sign_up/enter_email
    1. Enter your personal email address
    2. Choose your preferred language
    3. Agree to the Rules of Use
    4. Click Submit
  3. You'll need to confirm your email address

    1. Check your email and click the button to confirm your account
  4. Create your password

    1. Enter your desired password that meets the requirements
    2. Click Continue
  5. Choose your preferred second factor authentication method:
    1. Authentication app on your mobile phone (Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator)

      1. Download and install Microsoft Authenticator (Android or Apple iOS)
      2. Open the app
      3. Click on the 3 dot menu in the upper right
      4. Click Add account
      5. Click Other account
      6. Scan the QR code from the screen
      7. Click on Login.gov on the list of accounts
      8. Enter the 6 digit code from the screen into the corresponding box
    2. Security key

      1. If you do not have a mobile phone, you may ask to be provided a Yubikey security key
      2. Enter the nickname for your key and click Continue
      3. Follow the directions presented to insert your key and enter your pin
    3. Phone

      1. Follow directions on the screen
  6. You are now signed into your Login.gov account and can access government applications