How to change your Instagram username

Illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge

Some platforms limit the number of times you can change your name while others don't. If you want, you can change your account as many times as you want.

The display name is different than the usernames. You can see the display name on your profile. It doesn't have to be unique to you, and it can have special characters. It can be changed twice within 14 days.

At the top of your profile and at the end of your URL are the places where your usernames appear. You need to be unique. It can't be longer than 30 characters and can only contain letters, numbers, periods, and underscores. If no one claims it, you can change it back within 14 days.

You can change your handle in less than a minute. It is possible to do here.

Change your username in the Instagram app

Go to the app on your mobile device to log in. If you have more than one account, make sure you log in to the one you want to change.

• Tap your avatar icon in the bottom-right corner to go to your profile
• Tap Edit profile under your bio
• Tap the Username field and type in your new handle
• Tap the blue checkmark in the upper right corner.

• Tap your avatar icon.
• Tap “Edit Profile.”
• Now you can change your username.

You can change your display name by typing in the name field.

Change your username on a computer

You can change your name on the desktop version of the photo sharing service.

• In a web browser, go to Instagram.com
• If you’re already logged in, you’ll be prompted to continue with your account. If you’re not already logged in, enter your username and password.
• Click your profile icon on the right side of the homepage and select Profile
• Click Edit profile next to your username

• Sign in to your web-based Instagram account.
• Click on your personal icon and “Profile.”
• Click on “Edit profile” next to your username
• Now you can change your Username.

You can return your old handle within 14 days if you make a mistake or decide you don't like it. It is possible that your old handle has been taken by another user.

If your username is taken...

You can't have the same name as someone else, and it's first come, first serve. After you press the checkmark on mobile or submit on the web, you'll be told if your handle is taken.

Adding numbers or underscores makes the name unique to you.

Keep an eye on it. In the future, you may be able to use your desired usernames. The current owner is able to change or deleted their account.

The article was originally published in February of 2020 and has been updated to account for changes in the app.