The world of cryptocurrency continues to attract newcomers, and one of the first steps in entering this space is choosing a reliable exchange. OKX (formerly known as OKEx) stands out as one of the most trusted platforms globally, offering a seamless experience for buying, selling, and trading digital assets. This comprehensive guide walks you through every essential step—from registering an OKX account, completing KYC verification, buying USDT or Bitcoin, to executing spot trades and safely withdrawing funds.
Whether you're completely new to crypto or looking for a clear reference, this guide ensures you gain full control over your journey on OKX—with clarity, security, and efficiency.
Step 1: How to Register an OKX Account
To begin, visit the official OKX registration page using a secure connection. Make sure your network allows access—some regions may require regional IP settings such as those from Taiwan to avoid restrictions.
👉 Start your secure registration process now and unlock exclusive benefits.
During registration:
- Select your country or region—ensure it matches your legal residence.
- Enter a valid email address—this will be your login ID.
- Set a strong password (minimum 8 characters with uppercase, lowercase, number, and special symbol).
- Complete email verification by entering the code sent to your inbox.
- Verify your mobile number (e.g., +86 for mainland China users).
An important tip: To enjoy up to 20% fee reduction on trading, make sure to input the correct referral code during sign-up (if applicable). This can significantly reduce long-term trading costs.
Once verified, your account is ready. The next critical step is identity verification.
Step 2: Complete Identity Verification (KYC)
Without completing KYC (Know Your Customer), you won’t be able to perform fiat deposits, withdrawals, or large-volume trades.
Here’s how to complete it:
- Open the OKX mobile app (available via QR code on the website).
- Navigate to "Verification" and select "ID Card" or "Passport".
- Upload clear photos of both sides of your ID.
- Perform facial recognition—follow prompts like blinking or smiling.
💡 Note for iOS users: If you can't download the app from the App Store due to regional restrictions, switch to a non-mainland Apple ID (e.g., Taiwan region). Android users can directly download the APK after scanning the QR code.
The entire process takes just minutes and dramatically increases your account privileges, including higher withdrawal limits and access to advanced trading features.
Step 3: Deposit & Buy Cryptocurrency (C2C or Quick Buy)
After verification, you’re ready to fund your account. Most beginners start by purchasing USDT (Tether)—a stablecoin pegged 1:1 to the US dollar—before investing in more volatile assets like Bitcoin.
Option A: C2C Trading (Peer-to-Peer)
This method connects buyers with sellers directly:
- Go to Buy Crypto > C2C Trading.
- Choose USDT as the cryptocurrency.
- Enter the amount in CNY (Chinese Yuan) you want to spend.
- Filter payment methods: Alipay, WeChat Pay, or bank transfer.
- Review seller ratings, completion rate, and average response time.
- Select a trusted seller and click "Buy USDT".
Before paying:
- Read all transaction notes (e.g., no payment remarks required).
- Use only the provided payment details.
After making the payment via your selected method:
- Click "I have paid".
- Wait for the seller to release USDT—funds are held in escrow until confirmed.
🔒 Security Tip: Always communicate through OKX’s built-in chat. Never move conversations to external platforms like WeChat or Telegram—this protects you in case of disputes.
Some transactions include a T+3 safeguard period, meaning newly bought USDT cannot be withdrawn for three days but can still be used for spot trading immediately.
Option B: Quick Buy (Instant Purchase)
For faster results, use the Quick Buy feature:
- Select your preferred payment method.
- Confirm the instant price and quantity.
- Pay directly—no need to choose a seller manually.
Both methods are secure, but C2C offers better pricing control and multiple payment options.
👉 Access instant crypto purchase options with real-time pricing and low fees.
Step 4: Execute Spot Trades (Buy Bitcoin or Other Coins)
Now that you have USDT in your wallet, it's time to trade.
Fund Transfer
First, transfer USDT from your funding account to your trading account:
- Go to Assets > Transfer.
- Select USDT, choose “From Funding Account” to “To Trading Account.”
- Confirm transfer—this is free and nearly instant.
Place Your First Trade
- Navigate to Trade > Spot.
- Search for BTC/USDT trading pair.
Explore the interface:
- Left panel: Market overview
- Middle: Interactive K-line chart
- Right: Order book and trading panel
Two Main Order Types:
- Limit Order: Set your desired price. For example, buy BTC when it hits $50,000.
- Market Order: Buy instantly at current best price (faster but less price control).
To place a market order:
- Under "Buy BTC", enter amount or drag slider.
- Click "Buy BTC" → confirm.
Your purchased Bitcoin appears instantly in your spot wallet under Orders > History.
Selling works the same way—just switch to the "Sell" tab and choose limit or market mode.
Step 5: Withdraw Funds (Convert Crypto to Cash)
When it’s time to cash out:
- Transfer USDT back from Trading Account → Funding Account.
- Go to Buy Crypto > C2C > Sell.
- Select USDT, enter amount, choose preferred payment method.
- Pick a buyer with high trust score and fast confirmation history.
- After receiving their payment, click "Confirm Receipt" to release USDT.
⚠️ Risk Warning: Avoid using salary cards or primary bank accounts for receiving funds—use secondary accounts to minimize risks of freezing due to blockchain-related activity flags.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is OKX legal and safe to use?
A: Yes. OKX operates under strict compliance frameworks and uses cold storage, two-factor authentication (2FA), and anti-phishing codes to protect user assets.
Q: Why can’t I download the OKX app in China?
A: Due to regional app store policies, iOS users may need a non-mainland Apple ID. Android users should enable "Install from Unknown Sources" and scan the official QR code.
Q: Can I trade without KYC?
A: Limited features are available without KYC, but full trading, deposits, and withdrawals require identity verification.
Q: Are there fees for deposits or transfers?
A: No. Depositing fiat via C2C, transferring between accounts, or depositing crypto incurs no fees on OKX.
Q: What if a C2C buyer doesn’t pay?
A: The system holds your crypto in escrow. If payment isn’t received within the time limit, the trade cancels automatically and funds return to you.
Q: How fast are withdrawals processed?
A: C2C cash-out speed depends on buyer response time—usually within minutes if using reputable traders.
Final Thoughts
Registering and using OKX doesn’t have to be complicated. From setting up your account and verifying identity to buying USDT, trading Bitcoin, and withdrawing profits—the entire process is intuitive once you understand each step.
By following best practices—like using secure networks, completing KYC early, sticking to platform communication tools, and managing bank risk—you’ll enjoy a smooth and secure crypto experience.
👉 Begin your confident crypto journey today with one of the world’s most trusted exchanges.
With powerful tools, deep liquidity, and user-first design, OKX empowers both beginners and experienced traders alike to navigate the digital asset ecosystem efficiently and safely.