Getting Started with LocalBitcoins
Your complete guide to joining the world's most trusted P2P Bitcoin trading platform. From installation to your first trade in minutes.
Step 1: Download & Install
Choose your platform and get the LocalBitcoins app on your desktop
Windows
Windows 10 or later
- Native Windows integration
- Auto-update support
- System tray notifications
macOS
macOS 11 or later
- Apple Silicon optimized
- Touch Bar support
- Keychain integration
Linux
Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora
- .deb and .rpm packages
- Open source friendly
- Command line tools
Download the Archive
Download the ZIP archive for your operating system and save it to your computer.
Extract the Files
Extract the downloaded archive to your preferred location using your file manager or archive tool.
Launch the application
Open the extracted folder and run the LocalBitcoins application to get started.
Step 2: Create Your Account
Set up your secure trading account in just a few minutes
Email Verification
Enter a valid email address to receive your verification link. Check your inbox and click the confirmation link to activate your account.
Strong Password
Create a secure password with at least 8 characters, including uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters to protect your account.
Two-Factor Authentication
Enable 2FA immediately after signup for enhanced security. Use Google Authenticator or Authy to generate verification codes.
Security Best Practices
Step 3: Verify Your Identity
Complete identity verification to unlock full trading capabilities and higher limits
Basic
- Email verification only
- Browse marketplace offers
- Trade within basic limits
- Create your own offers
Verified
- All Basic features
- Higher trading limits
- Access advanced payment options
- Verified badge
Professional
- All Verified features
- Priority support
- Lower Fees
- Advanced trading tools
- API access
Verification Process
Personal Information
Provide your full name, date of birth, and address as they appear on official documents.
Document Upload
Upload clear photos of your government-issued ID and proof of address document.
Selfie Verification
Take a live selfie holding your ID document to confirm your identity.
Review & Approval
Our team will review your documents within 24-48 hours and notify you once approved.
Step 4: Make Your First Trade
Ready to trade? Follow these simple steps to complete your first Bitcoin transaction
For Buyers
- Open the Buy Bitcoin section.
- Enter the amount you want to purchase.
- Select your preferred payment method.
- Browse available offers.
- Compare prices and seller ratings.
- Review trade limits.
- Choose a suitable offer.
- Continue to the trader profile.
For Sellers
- Open the Sell Bitcoin section.
- Deposit Bitcoin to your wallet.
- Create a sell offer.
- Set your price.
- Choose accepted payment methods.
- Define trade limits.
- Publish your offer.
- Wait for buyer requests.
First Trade Success Tips
Choose Verified Traders
Start with traders who have high reputation scores and verified badges for safer transactions.
Read Trade Terms
Always read the trader's terms carefully before initiating a trade to avoid misunderstandings.
Start Small
Begin with smaller amounts to familiarize yourself with the trading process before larger trades.
Communicate Clearly
Use the built-in chat to communicate with your trading partner and resolve any questions promptly.
Ready to Start Trading?
Download LocalBitcoins now and join thousands of users trading Bitcoin peer-to-peer worldwide.