How to create an Apple ID

Creating an Apple ID is an essential part of iPhone ownership. Without it, you won’t have access to Apple’s many services, apps, and tools.

This is why setting up an Apple ID is one of the first things you’ll be invited to do when you first boot up a new iPhone.

However, it’s possible to create an Apple ID from your iPhone at any time. Here’s how it’s done.

What we used

We used the iPhone 13 Pro, but these methods will work on any iPhone

The Short Version

Make sure you’re signed out
Open the App Store
Create New Apple ID
Enter email and password
Add name and birthday
Enter payment details
Enter billing address
Enter phone number
Verify number and email

Step
1

Make sure you’re signed out

If your iPhone is signed out, you can skip to Step 2. If not, open up the Settings app (the cogwheel icon) and go to Apple ID, scroll down and tap Sign Out. Authenticate with your current Apple ID password, then tap Sign Out twice more.
Step
2

Open the App Store

Open the App Store app and tap Continue. Now tap the circular sign-in icon in the top right corner to enter the Account screen.
Step
3

Create New Apple ID

Tap Create New Apple ID in the Account screen.
Step
4

Enter email and password

In the next screen, enter the email and password you wish to use for your new Apple ID. Press the Agree to Terms and Conditions toggle, then tap Next.
Step
5

Add name and birthday

On the next screen you’ll need to add your first name, surname, and date of birth in the appropriate fields. Untick the Apple Updates toggle if you don’t wish to be contacted by Apple. Tap Next when you’re done.
Step
6

Enter payment details

On the next screen enter the credit or debit card or PayPal account you wish to associate with your new Apple ID as the primary source of payments. You can also choose None if you don’t wish to associate a payment method at this time.
Step
7

Enter billing address

Even if you opt for None under Payment Method, you’ll need to provide a Billing Name and Billing Address in the relevant fields below.
Step
8

Enter phone number

In the next screen, enter your phone number. This will be the number that’s used to verify your identity at various points, so choose where you wish the verification method to be a text message or a phone call by default. Hit Next.
Step
9

Verify number and email

Enter the verification code that’s sent to the provided number, then the code that’s sent to your email address. Hit Verify. Once done the Apple ID will be active and usable on your devices.