# Creating an Account
Source: https://docs.chain.link/chainlink-platform/creating-an-account
Last Updated: 2025-11-04

> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](/llms.txt).

Before you can use the Chainlink Platform and its products, you need to create an account.

There are two ways to create an account:

1. **Create a new organization**: Sign up directly on the [Chainlink Platform](https://app.chain.link). You'll become the *Owner* of a new organization.
2. **Join an existing organization**: Accept an invitation from an existing organization Owner. You'll become a member of that organization automatically after account creation.

## Prerequisites

- A valid email address
- Access to your email inbox to receive verification codes (and an invitation email, if joining an existing organization)

## Step 1: Navigate to the Chainlink Platform

There are two ways to begin the account creation process:

### Option A: Create a new organization

In this option, you'll create a new organization and become the *Owner* of that organization. The Owner role includes every permission for every product. See [RBAC](/chainlink-platform/rbac) to learn more about roles.

Go to [app.chain.link](https://app.chain.link) and click the **"Create an account"** button.

![Chainlink Platform sign-up page](/images/cre/UI/account-creation/1-sign-up.png)

### Option B: Join an existing organization

In this option, you'll join an existing organization and become a member of that organization.

If you've received an invitation email from an organization Owner, click the **"Accept Invitation"** button in the email. This will redirect you to the account creation page.

> **NOTE: Organization membership**
>
> Members with the invite permission, such as Platform Admins and the Owner, can invite new members. Learn more about [Understanding Organizations](/chainlink-platform/understanding-organizations) and [RBAC](/chainlink-platform/rbac).

After choosing either option, continue with the following steps to complete your account creation.

## Step 2: Enter your information

Fill in the required information:

1. **Email address**: Enter a valid email address (if not already pre-filled)
2. **Country**: Select your country from the dropdown
3. **Terms and policies**: Review and accept the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Click **"Continue"** to proceed.

![Create account form](/images/cre/UI/account-creation/2-create-account.png)

## Step 3: Verify your email

> **NOTE: Organization invitations**
>
> If you're joining an existing organization via an invitation link, **skip this step**. Your email is already verified
> when you accept the invitation, and you'll proceed directly to setting your password.

Check your email inbox for a message from Chainlink containing a 6-digit verification code. Enter this code in the verification screen and click **Continue**.

![Email verification screen](/images/cre/UI/account-creation/3-verify-email.png)

> **TIP: Didn't receive the code?**
>
> If you don't see the verification email, check your spam folder. You can also request a new code by clicking "Resend
> Code" on the verification screen.

## Step 4: Set your password

Create a secure password for your account. Your password must meet the security requirements displayed on the screen.

![Set password screen](/images/cre/UI/account-creation/4-set-password.png)

> **TIP: Password best practices**
>
> Use a strong, unique password that you don't use for other services. Consider using a password manager to generate and
> store secure passwords.

## Step 5: Set up two-factor authentication (2FA)

To secure your account, you'll need to set up two-factor authentication. You'll be presented with two authentication method options:

1. **Authenticator App** - Use an authenticator app to generate one-time codes
2. **Passkey/Hardware Key** - Use a passkey or a hardware security key

![Choose authentication method](/images/cre/UI/account-creation/5-authentication-method.png)

### Using an authenticator app

If you choose the authenticator app option:

1. Click **"Authenticator App"**
2. Open your preferred authenticator app (such as Google Authenticator, Authy, or 1Password)
3. Scan the QR code displayed on the screen
4. Enter the 6-digit one-time code generated by your authenticator app
5. Click **"Continue"**

![Two-factor authentication setup](/images/cre/UI/account-creation/5-authenticator-app.webp)

> **TIP: Trouble scanning?**
>
> If you're having difficulty scanning the QR code, click "Trouble Scanning?" on the screen for alternative setup
> options.

## Step 6: Save your recovery code

Your recovery code is essential for regaining access to your account if you lose access to your authenticator device.

1. Copy the recovery code displayed on the screen
2. Store it securely in a password manager or offline location
3. Check the box "I have safely recorded this code"
4. Click **"Continue"** to complete account creation

![Recovery code screen](/images/cre/UI/account-creation/6-recovery-code.webp)

> **CAUTION: Keep your recovery code safe**
>
> **Never share your recovery code with anyone.** You'll need this code if you ever need to log in without your
> authenticator device. Store it in a secure location.

After completing these steps, you'll be redirected to your Chainlink Platform dashboard.

## What's next?

Once your account is created:

1. **If you created a new organization (Owner)**: [Invite team members](/chainlink-platform/inviting-team-members) to collaborate
2. **Learn about roles**: Read [RBAC](/chainlink-platform/rbac) to understand member roles
3. **Create API keys**: Read [API Keys](/chainlink-platform/api-keys) for programmatic access