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How Do You Create a Login.gov Account?

Learn how to create a Login.gov account, confirm your email, set a valid password, and choose authentication methods.

Direct answer

To create a Login.gov account, use an email address you can keep using, confirm that email, create a password that is at least 12 characters, and set up an authentication method. Login.gov recommends adding more than one authentication method so you do not lose access if one method fails.

email confirmation + 12-character password + authentication method = Login.gov account

Before you start

Long-term email

Used for account access

Personal email you control

Strong password

Passphrase or password manager

Authentication method

Required for sign-in security

App, phone, security key

Backup method

Reduces lockout risk

Second MFA option

Agency next steps

Some agencies require more

Identity verification

Need	Why it matters	Example
Long-term email	Used for account access	Personal email you control
Strong password	Login.gov requires 12+ characters	Passphrase or password manager
Authentication method	Required for sign-in security	App, phone, security key
Backup method	Reduces lockout risk	Second MFA option
Agency next steps	Some agencies require more	Identity verification

Account creation is not always the final agency step

A Login.gov account lets you sign in, but an agency may still require identity verification, profile setup, or application-specific steps after sign-in.

Create the account

1Go to Login.gov and choose the option to create an account.
2Enter an email address you can keep using.
3Confirm the email address when Login.gov sends a message.
4Create a password that meets the Login.gov rules.
5Set up at least one authentication method, and add a backup method if possible.

FAQ

Do I need a phone to create a Login.gov account?

Login.gov requires an authentication method during account creation. A phone is one option, but users can also use other supported methods such as an authentication app or security key.

How long does a Login.gov password need to be?

Can I use one Login.gov account for multiple agencies?

Yes. Login.gov is a shared sign-in service used by many government agencies, though each agency may have its own next steps after sign-in.

Sources & method

We reviewed these references while writing this answer. Figures are estimates — confirm safety-critical work with a professional. Last updated June 7, 2026.