So, you would like to create a new YouTube account, but, you already have your own email address and don’t want to create a Gmail account.

At some point in the past, when Google acquired YouTube, having a Gmail email address in order to create a YouTube account/channel became a requirement.  We’re not really sure when it was made a requirement, but one thing we do know for sure, this is no longer true… That is, as long as you can confirm ownership of your existing email address.

These steps will guide you on how to successfully create a YouTube account, using your existing email address.  Yes, it looks like a BIG undertaking, but trust us, it’s not.  We just want to be as detailed as possible.

1. Open your favorite web browser and visit https://www.youtube.com
2. Click on the SIGN IN option, located on the top right side of the main page.
3. If you have previously signed on with an existing Gmail account, you will likely be asked to sign on with that account.  If this is not the case, skip to step 4. Otherwise:
   • Click the down arrow next to the email address.
   • Select Use another account.
4. You should now be prompted with the Sign in screen.
5. Select “More options“.
6. Select Create account.
7. Fill the entire form using your existing email address**
   • **Suggestions (for Business Channels Only):
     • Don’t use your first/last name. Use your business name instead.
     • Use your existing business email address (an email address dedicated for the YouTube channel).
     • Create a password and record it in a safe place.
     • Make sure the Birthday date field is set to at least 14 years back.
     • Select “Rather not say” under gender.
     • You can leave the Mobile phone field empty.
     • Location should be left to “United States” (at least for Blogistix customers).
8. Click on the Next Step button.
9. If everything is filled out correctly, you should be prompted with “Privacy and Terms“.
10. Scroll down and click the I AGREE button.
11. At this point, you might be prompted to Verify your account using a phone number.  If this is not the case, skip to step 12. Otherwise:
    • Enter a mobile phone number and select:
      • Text message (SMS) or Voice Call
        • Depending your selection, you will receive either an SMS message or a Voice call with a six (6) digit verification code.
      • Click on the Continue button.
      • A window asking to Enter verification code will be on display.
      • Wait for the SMS or Call with your code.
      • Enter verification code and click on the Continue button.
12. If the verification code is successful, a “Verify your email address” message will be displayed on your screen.  You’re almost done!
13. You will receive an email from Google with the subject “Google Email Verification”.
14. Click on the provided link to verify your email address and complete your signup.
15. The link will open your default web browser and the page will read:
    • “Welcome, [Selected Name]”.  Thanks for creating a Google Account. Use it to subscribe to channels on YouTube, video chat for free, save favorite places on Maps, and lots more.
16. Select the Continue to YouTube button.

You’re all set!  You should now have a YouTube Account/Channel with your own (non-Gmail) email address.