How to Create & Verify Your Coinbase Account — Step-by-Step Guide
Getting verified on Coinbase unlocks higher limits, improves security, and lets you use the platform’s full feature set. Follow this guide to set up an account properly and complete verification without headaches.
Quick overview
Create an account with a real name and email.
Verify your email and phone number.
Add payment method(s).
Complete identity (KYC) verification by uploading ID and — if required — a selfie.
Enable strong security (2-factor authentication).
(See official Coinbase verification instructions for country-specific details.)
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1) Sign up (create your account)
Go to Coinbase.com or download the official Coinbase mobile app.
Click Get started / Sign up and enter your full name, email, and a strong password.
Confirm your email by clicking the verification link Coinbase sends you.
This starts your account and allows you to sign in to the dashboard.
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2) Verify your phone number
Coinbase will ask for a phone number for security and account recovery.
Enter the SMS code sent to your phone to confirm the number.
Phone verification helps protect your account and is required before some actions.
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3) Add a payment method
Lnk a bank account, debit/credit card, or another supported payment method (options vary by country).
Linking a bank account is typically required to deposit/withdraw fiat and gives lower fees than cards.
Some payment methods may require an extra verification step (microdeposits, for example).
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4) Prepare documents for identity verification (KYC)
Coinbase will ask for identity documents to comply with regulations. Commonly requested documents include:
Government-issued photo ID: passport, driver’s license, or national ID.
Proof of address: utility bill or bank statement (if requested).
Selfie / live video: Coinbase may ask you to take a selfie or short video to match your ID.
Make sure IDs are current (not expired), clearly photographed, and free of watermarks or edits.
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5) Submit verification in the Coinbase dashboard
Sign in → Profile & Settings (or the Identity / Verification area).
Choose the ID type you’ll submit, follow on-screen prompts, and upload clear photos of the front and back of the document.
If prompted, take a live selfie using your device camera (follow Coinbase’s instructions for lighting and framing).
Double-check that names, dates, and address fields match exactly across all documents to avoid delays.
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6) What happens next — review & timing
Coinbase reviews submissions and performs automated checks. Processing time varies by country and volume — often within a few hours to several days.
If douments are rejected, you’ll get instructions to re-upload clearer images or additional documents. Follow the troubleshooting tips (good lighting, no glare, full ID visible).