Need a new Gmail address but not sure where to start?

You can create one on your phone without visiting a cybercafé. Open Gmail or go to Google’s account creation page, choose a username and password, then complete the checks Google asks for. Once the account is ready, you can use the address to receive email and sign in to services such as Google Drive and Google Photos.

Before you begin, make sure your phone is connected to the internet. The screens may look a little different depending on your phone, app version and the information Google needs to verify your account.

What to prepare before creating the account

Think of a username you will be comfortable sharing. For example, if you want to apply for jobs, a simple combination of your name and a number may be more useful than a nickname that could look unprofessional. Gmail will tell you if the address you want is already taken.

You will also need a strong password. Do not use your phone number, date of birth or a password you already use for another account. Our guide to creating a strong password explains how to make one you can manage.

Google may ask for a phone number for verification or recovery. The prompt and whether a number is required can vary. Use a number you can access if asked, and read the purpose on the screen before continuing.

Create a Gmail account on Android

Many Android phones already have the Gmail app installed. You can add another account even if you are already signed in to an existing one.

Open the Gmail app and tap your profile picture or initial at the top right.
Tap Add another account, then choose Google.
If your phone asks for your screen lock, enter it to continue.
On the Google sign-in screen, tap Create account and select the option that fits your situation.
Enter the requested details, including your name and date of birth, then tap Next.
Choose one of the suggested Gmail addresses or create your own if that option appears.
Create a password, complete any verification prompts and review Google’s terms before accepting them.

After setup, Gmail should open with the new account available. Send a test email to an address you already use, or ask someone you trust to send you a message. This helps you confirm that you copied your new address correctly.

You do not need to remove your first account to add another one. To switch between them later, tap the profile picture in Gmail and select the address you want. Check which inbox is open before sending a message, especially if you keep personal and business emails separate.

Create an account on an iPhone or in a browser

If you have the Gmail app on an iPhone, open it, tap the profile picture and look for Add another account, then Google. Follow the account creation prompts. The app may ask permission to use a browser for sign-in.

You can also visit Google’s account sign-in page in your phone browser and choose Create account. Follow the on-screen steps to create a Gmail address. If you are already signed in, you may need to choose an option to add another account or use a separate browser session.

Google also lets people create a Google Account using an existing non-Gmail email address. If you specifically want an address ending in @gmail.com, check that you are creating a Gmail address rather than using your current email to register.

What if your preferred address is unavailable?

Gmail addresses must be unique. If the username is taken, Google may suggest alternatives. Try adding a middle name, an initial or a memorable number. Avoid using details you would rather keep private, such as a full date of birth.

Read the spelling carefully before confirming. A small mistake can make an address difficult to share with employers or customers. If you are creating an address for a business, consider whether someone else will need access and how you will handle account recovery if your phone is lost.

Do not pay someone who promises to reserve an ordinary Gmail address for you. Google provides personal Gmail accounts without a subscription, although paid business services are available separately.

Add recovery details you can actually access

After signing in, open your Google Account settings and look under Security for recovery options. A recovery phone number or email address can help Google contact you or offer ways to regain access, depending on the situation. Keep those details current.

Choose a recovery email you can open independently. If both accounts use the same forgotten password and you cannot access either one, recovery can be harder. Do not list another person’s number without their permission, and change it if you stop using that number.

Save your password in a password manager you trust or another secure place. Avoid sending it to yourself through a public chat or writing it on a note attached to a shared computer.

Protect the new account

Turn on two-step verification if the account offers a method you can use. Google may offer prompts, an authenticator, passkeys or other options depending on your device and account. Keep any backup codes somewhere safe and separate from your phone.

Our guide to turning on two-factor authentication explains why a second sign-in step matters. Never give a verification code to a caller or a person who says they need it to help set up your email.

If you are using a shared phone, remember that adding a Google Account can make its email and other account data available on that device. Only add it where you trust the people who can unlock the phone. Removing the account from a device is different from deleting the account itself.

If the setup does not work

If the page will not load, check your connection and try a browser or the Gmail app again. If Google cannot verify your phone number, follow the message shown on the screen rather than paying a stranger for a workaround. You can also consult Google’s account creation help.

If the app takes you to an existing account instead of a new one, return to the account picker and choose Add another account. After creating the new address, check the inbox and recovery settings while you still have access to the device and phone number you used.