How to create a Gmail account

    Overview

    Use this guide to create a free personal Gmail address for email, Google Drive, and signing in to apps.

    Steps

    1. Open https://accounts.google.com/signup in a browser.
    2. Enter your first name and last name.
    3. Choose a username (this becomes you@gmail.com). If it is taken, try a variation (e.g. add a number or middle initial).
    4. Create a strong password and confirm it.
    5. Select Next.
    6. Add a phone number (recommended for recovery) and verify the SMS code.
    7. Add a recovery email if you have one.
    8. Enter your date of birth and gender (as required by Google).
    9. Review Google’s Privacy and Terms, then accept to finish.

    After signup

    1. Open https://mail.google.com.
    2. Confirm you can send a test email to yourself.
    3. Turn on 2-Step Verification: Google Account → Security → 2-Step Verification.

    Tips

    • Do not share your password.
    • Write down your recovery phone/email in a safe place.
    • For company work mail, use your organization address — not a personal Gmail — unless IT says otherwise.

    Need help?

    Open a ticket under Email Problem and include the exact error message from the signup screen.

    Published