So you want to make a new Instagram account but aren't quite sure where to start? You're not alone. Whether you're a first-time user or returning after a break, getting started on Instagram can feel a bit confusing at first. The good news is, the process is pretty straightforward — once you know what to do. Instagram remains one of the most popular social media platforms, and for good reason. It’s a place where you can connect with friends, share moments from your daily life, or even grow a personal brand or business.
Maybe you're setting up an account for yourself, or maybe you're helping a friend or family member get started. Either way, knowing how to make a new Instagram account is a useful skill. The steps are simple, but sometimes the little details — like choosing the right username or setting up your profile — can make a big difference. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from the very first tap on your screen to the moment you're ready to start sharing photos and videos.
Instagram has evolved a lot over the years. The app now offers a variety of ways to connect — from Stories and Reels to direct messaging and shopping features. Making a new Instagram account gives you a fresh start to explore all these features without the clutter of old posts or outdated settings. Whether you're going for a personal page or a business profile, the setup process is pretty similar, with just a few extra steps for business users.
Table of Contents
- Different Ways to Create a New Instagram Account
- Step-by-Step Signup Process
- Tips for Choosing a Username and Profile Setup
- How to Make a New Instagram Business Account
- Common Issues When Making a New Instagram Account
- Frequently Asked Questions
Different Ways to Create a New Instagram Account
There are a couple of ways to make a new Instagram account. The most common method is through the Instagram app itself, but you can also sign up using a web browser on your computer. Let’s break it down so you know what options are available to you.
If you're on a mobile device — which most people are — you'll probably start by downloading the Instagram app from the App Store or Google Play. Once installed, open the app and you’ll see a screen with two options: “Log In” and “Sign Up.” Since you're making a new Instagram account, you’ll want to tap on “Sign Up” or “Create Account.”
Alternatively, you can create a new Instagram account using a desktop computer or laptop. Just visit Instagram’s website in your browser and follow the same steps as you would on the app. Keep in mind, though, that some features might not be fully available through a web browser, so it's usually best to complete the setup on your phone.
You can also sign up using your Facebook account. If you already have a Facebook profile, this might be the quickest way to get started. Just tap the “Continue with Facebook” option during registration, and Instagram will import some of your basic info to speed up the process. But if you want to keep your Instagram and Facebook profiles separate, you can skip that and sign up with an email or phone number instead.
Step-by-Step Signup Process to Make a New Instagram Account
Let’s walk through the actual steps of making a new Instagram account. Whether you're using an iPhone or Android, the process is nearly identical. Here’s how it goes:
- Download and open the Instagram app.
- Tap “Sign Up” or “Create Account.”
- Enter your email address or phone number. You’ll receive a confirmation code to verify your contact method.
- Create a password that’s strong and easy for you to remember.
- Choose a username — more on that in the next section.
- Set up your profile by adding a profile picture and a short bio, if you’d like.
- Follow some accounts to start building your feed. Instagram will suggest popular accounts and people you might know.
That’s basically it. Once you’ve completed these steps, you’re officially on Instagram and ready to start posting. If you're setting up a business account, there’s one more step we’ll cover in a bit.
One thing to keep in mind: Instagram asks for your email or phone number so it can help you find people you know. You can choose to skip this step if you prefer to keep your contacts private for now. Just remember, you can always add your contacts later in the app settings.
Another thing to note is that Instagram may ask you to enter your birthday during the signup process. This helps them comply with age restrictions — you need to be at least 13 years old to use Instagram. If you're under 18, Instagram might apply some extra privacy protections by default.
Tips for Choosing a Username and Profile Setup
Choosing the right username is one of the more important parts of making a new Instagram account. Your username is how people will find and tag you, so it's worth thinking about carefully. Here are a few tips:
- Keep it simple — avoid numbers or special characters if possible.
- Make it memorable and easy to type.
- If it's for a business or brand, include your business name or a variation of it.
- Check if the username is already taken before committing.
Once you’ve picked a username, it's time to set up your profile. Your Instagram profile is like your digital business card, so you’ll want to make it count. Here’s what to include:
- Profile Picture: Use a clear image that represents you or your brand. For personal accounts, a headshot works best. For businesses, use your logo.
- Bio: This is your chance to tell people who you are or what your account is about. You can add emojis, links, and even line breaks to make it visually appealing.
- Link: Instagram only allows one link in your bio, so choose it wisely. If you have a blog, portfolio, or website, this is where you’ll put it.
- Highlights: If it's a business account, you can create story highlights to showcase important content like products, services, or testimonials.
Take your time with these details. A well-crafted profile can make a big difference in how others perceive your account — especially if you're trying to grow your presence on the platform.
How to Make a New Instagram Business Account
Creating a business account on Instagram gives you access to tools and features that regular personal accounts don’t have. These include Instagram Insights, the ability to run ads, and contact options like a call button or email link.
Here’s how to switch your personal account to a business profile or create a new one from scratch:
- Make sure you already have a Facebook Page for your business. If you don’t, you’ll need to create one first.
- Go to your Instagram profile and tap the three lines in the top-right corner.
- Select “Settings” and then “Account.”
- Tap “Convert to Professional Account” and follow the prompts.
- Choose your business category, add your contact info, and link your Facebook Page.
Once you've done that, you’re all set. You’ll now have access to analytics like impressions, reach, and follower activity. You can also use the “Promote” feature to boost your posts and run ads directly from your Instagram app.
If you're just starting out, a business account can help you build credibility and give you more tools to grow your presence. It’s definitely worth the few extra steps during setup.
Common Issues When Making a New Instagram Account
While the process of making a new Instagram account is usually smooth, there are a few common issues people run into. Let’s cover some of them and how to fix them:
- Username Taken: If the username you want is already taken, try adding numbers, initials, or small variations. Instagram doesn’t allow duplicate usernames, so creativity is key here.
- Email or Phone Verification Issues: If you’re not receiving the confirmation code, check your spam folder or wait a few minutes and try again. If the issue persists, you can contact Instagram support.
- App Crashes: If the app keeps crashing during setup, try uninstalling and reinstalling it. Make sure your phone has enough storage space and that your internet connection is stable.
- Age Restriction Errors: Instagram requires users to be at least 13 years old. If you’re getting an error about your birthday, double-check the date you entered during signup.
If you run into any other problems during the signup process, Instagram’s help center has a number of articles and troubleshooting tips that might help. You can also use the “Report a Problem” feature within the app to get in touch with their support team.
Once you're in, it’s a good idea to explore the app a bit and get familiar with the features. Don’t worry if things feel a little overwhelming at first — most people feel that way when they first start using Instagram. With time, it becomes second nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a new Instagram account without Facebook?
Absolutely. While you can use your Facebook account to sign up, it’s not required. You can create a new Instagram account using just your email or phone number. The process is straightforward and doesn’t require any Facebook integration.
How many Instagram accounts can I make?
Instagram allows you to have multiple accounts. In fact, the app has a built-in feature that lets you switch between up to five accounts without having to log in and out every time. This is super handy if you have both personal and business profiles.
Is it possible to delete my Instagram account and start over?
Yes, you can delete your Instagram account and make a new one. However, keep in mind that deleting your account is permanent and all your data — including posts, comments, and followers — will be removed. If you're not ready to delete, you can simply create a new account and start fresh without affecting your old one.
Want to learn more about managing your social media presence or finding local events to share on your new Instagram account? Learn more about how to stay connected and engaged in your community through social media and live events.
