Before You Register

Before You Open a Crypto Exchange Account: Beginner Checklist

Do not begin with a bonus or referral code. First confirm that the exchange can serve your jurisdiction, understand custodial risk, check the verification requirements and decide whether you can secure the account properly.

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What is a centralized exchange account?

A centralized crypto exchange holds assets on behalf of account holders and provides services such as buying, selling, deposits and withdrawals. This can be easier for a first-time user, but it is different from controlling assets in a self-custody wallet.

This guide is for people who have not yet opened a Binance or OKX account. If you cannot determine the legal, tax or service-availability rules that apply where you live, consult local official information or a qualified professional before registering.

Six checks to complete before registration

Jurisdiction: select your real country or region and confirm that the exchange and the products you need are available there.
Website: inspect the complete domain and browser warnings; search position and advertising are not proof of ownership.
Verification: prepare an email address and phone number you control, plus valid, unexpired identity documents if requested.
Costs: review trading, deposit, withdrawal and blockchain network fees instead of looking only at a welcome offer.
Security: prepare a unique password and an authenticator or passkey, and protect the linked email account with two-factor authentication.
Exit route: understand withdrawal networks, minimums, review procedures and the official support channel before depositing.

How to make an initial Binance vs OKX decision

Compare regional availability, supported funding methods, the products you actually need, fee disclosures and the security controls you understand. A larger product list does not automatically make an exchange a better fit for a beginner.

Never use false residency information or another person's identity to bypass restrictions. Read the comparison guide, then use the platform-specific registration guide for the current steps.

The correct order after creating an account

Verify your email and phone, then create a password not used anywhere else.
Complete the identity checks shown for your account using accurate information.
Enable an authenticator, passkey or another strong method supported by the exchange.
Review devices, anti-phishing settings, withdrawal controls and account notifications.
If you decide to deposit, test with an amount you can afford to lose and verify asset, network, address and memo or tag.

Frequently asked questions

Do crypto exchanges require identity verification?

Major exchanges may require verification depending on jurisdiction, account and service. Use the live registration screen and official help center to determine the requirements for your account.

Should I register with an email address or phone number?

Use a method you expect to control for the long term and protect it carefully. The linked email and phone can be part of account recovery, so both need strong security.

Do I have to deposit immediately after registration?

No. Finish verification and security setup first. If you later choose to deposit, understand the network and withdrawal rules and begin with a small test.

Should a welcome bonus determine which exchange I choose?

No. Promotions can change and may have regional, verification, deposit or trading conditions. Eligibility, security, fees and withdrawal access matter more.