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Bybit Tutorial 2026: Complete Beginner's Guide to Crypto Trading
Last Updated: January 4, 2026 • Verified: All steps and features tested on current Bybit platform
Quick Answer
Bybit is a leading cryptocurrency exchange where you can buy, sell, and trade crypto with spot and futures markets. To start trading in 2026: create an account using a referral code for bonuses, complete KYC verification (under 5 minutes), deposit funds via card or bank transfer, then place your first trade in the spot market. This guide covers every step from signup to advanced futures trading.
🚀 Your Bybit Setup Checklist
Complete these 6 steps to start trading:
0/6
Key Takeaways
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New Bybit users can claim up to $30,000 in bonuses by using referral code 88512 during signup (80%+ of users receive at least $100)
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KYC verification takes under 5 minutes and unlocks all trading features—complete Level 1 with a photo ID and facial recognition
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Four deposit methods available: one-click card purchase (instant), bank transfer (lowest fees), crypto deposit, and P2P trading (zero fees)
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Start with spot trading to buy real cryptocurrency before exploring futures trading with leverage
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Always transfer funds from your Funding account to Unified Trading account before placing trades
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Use stop-losses on every trade and keep leverage low (2-5x) until you develop consistent profitability
Video Chapters
- Introduction
- Sign Up & Claim Bonus
- KYC Verification
- Security Setup
- Deposit Methods
- Account Structure
- Converting Crypto
- Spot Trading Guide
- Order Types Explained
- Futures Trading
- Technical Analysis
- Next Steps
💡 Click any timestamp to jump to that section in the article.
🎁 Exclusive 2026 Offer
Get Up to $30,000 in Bybit Bonuses
Use referral code 88512 when signing up to unlock trading rewards. Over 80% of new users receive at least $100 in bonuses.
✓ Zero signup fees
✓ Instant account activation
✓ Bonuses credited automatically
Create Bybit Account →
Referral code 88512 auto-applied via this link
What Is Bybit and Why Use It in 2026?
Bybit is one of the world's largest cryptocurrency exchanges, serving millions of traders globally. Whether your goal is to make $50, $100, or even $1,000 a day trading crypto, Bybit provides the tools you need to get started.
In 2026, Bybit remains a top choice for both beginners and experienced traders because of its user-friendly interface, competitive fees, and comprehensive feature set. The platform supports spot trading for real cryptocurrency, futures trading with up to 100x leverage, and a variety of deposit methods including bank transfers, credit cards, and peer-to-peer trading.
This guide walks you through everything from creating your account to placing your first trade—and even covers intermediate concepts like futures trading and technical analysis.
"I have been into trading for over 5 years now and I have made every mistake in the book so you guys don't have to."
How to Create a Bybit Account (Step-by-Step)
Creating a Bybit account takes just a few minutes. Here's exactly how to do it:
How to Create a Bybit Account Step-by-Step (2026)
Step 1: Use a Referral Link for Bonus Rewards
Before signing up, make sure you use a referral link to unlock bonus rewards. New users can receive up to $30,000 in bonuses based on their trading activity.
Important: After clicking the signup link, verify you see the referral code 88512 displayed on the registration page. If it's not visible, enter it manually in the referral code box.
Step 2: Enter Your Email and Password
You can register using either your email address or mobile number. When creating your password, Bybit requires:
8 to 30 characters
At least one uppercase letter
At least one lowercase letter
At least one number
Choose a strong, unique password from the start—this protects your funds and makes your account more secure.
Step 3: Verify Your Email
After submitting the registration form, Bybit sends a verification code to your email or phone. Enter this code to complete the initial signup process.
Completing KYC Verification (Required for Trading)
KYC stands for "Know Your Customer"—it's a standard verification process that Bybit uses to improve security and prevent fraud. You must complete KYC before you can trade or deposit funds.
Level 1 Verification (Essential)
Level 1 verification requires two steps:
Identity Document: Submit a government-issued ID such as a driver's license, passport, or national ID card
Facial Recognition: Complete a quick selfie verification to confirm your identity
The entire process typically takes under 5 minutes when using the mobile app. Once approved, you'll see "Identity Verification Level 1" displayed under your account name.
Level 2 Verification (Recommended)
Level 2 verification unlocks higher withdrawal limits and additional features. To complete it, submit proof of address using one of these documents:
Bank statement
Utility bill (electricity, water, internet)
Tax return
Government correspondence
The document must show your name and address matching your account information.
Securing Your Bybit Account
Upgrade from low to high security by enabling email, SMS, and Google Authenticator 2FA on your Bybit account.
After creating your account, you may notice your security level shows as "Low." Here's how to upgrade to maximum security:
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Navigate to Profile → Security and enable these authentication methods:
Email Verification: Already active if you registered with email
SMS Authentication: Adds a text message code requirement for logins
Google Authenticator: The most secure option—generates time-based codes that refresh every 30 seconds
To set up Google Authenticator:
Download the Google Authenticator app on your phone
Scan the QR code shown in Bybit
Enter the 6-digit code to confirm setup
With all three methods enabled, your security level changes to "High."
Verify Your Referral Code is Active
While in your account settings, confirm that "Affiliated with: 88512" appears in your account info. This ensures you're eligible for trading bonuses.
How to Deposit Funds into Bybit
Bybit offers several deposit methods, each with different fees and processing times.
Compare Deposit Methods
Choose the best method for your situation:
⚡ Fastest
One-Click Buy
Speed
Instant
Fees
~2-3%
Min Deposit
~$10
Payment
Card, Apple/Google Pay
Best for: Getting started immediately
💰 Lowest Fees
Bank Transfer
Speed
1-3 days
Fees
~0.2%
Min Deposit
€10 (SEPA)
Payment
SEPA, Wire Transfer
Best for: Large deposits, saving on fees
🔗 From Other Exchange
Crypto Deposit
Speed
5-30 min
Fees
Network fees only
Min Deposit
No minimum
Payment
Any supported crypto
Best for: Already own crypto elsewhere
🆓 Zero Platform Fees
P2P Trading
Speed
15-60 min
Fees
0%
Min Deposit
Varies by seller
Payment
Bank, PayPal, etc.
Best for: Limited fiat options, zero fees
Pro tip: Start with One-Click Buy to begin trading today, then use Bank Transfer for larger deposits to save on fees.
Method 1: One-Click Buy (Fastest)
The quickest way to add funds is through the One-Click Buy feature:
Go to Buy Crypto → One-Click Buy
Select your currency (EUR, USD, GBP, etc.)
Enter the amount you want to deposit
Choose your payment method: Apple Pay, Google Pay, or bank card
Complete the purchase
Funds arrive instantly, though card fees are slightly higher than bank transfers.
Method 2: SEPA Bank Transfer (Lower Fees)
For lower fees, use a direct bank transfer:
Go to Buy Crypto → Fiat Deposit
Select your currency and amount
Choose SEPA (or your regional bank transfer option)
Copy the provided bank details
Send the transfer from your bank
Bank transfers typically take 1-3 business days but charge significantly lower fees (around €2 per €1,000).
Critical Note: Your bank account name must match your Bybit KYC information exactly. Avoid mentioning cryptocurrency in the transfer reference—some banks flag crypto-related transactions.
Method 3: Crypto Deposit (From Another Exchange)
If you already own cryptocurrency on another exchange:
Go to Buy Crypto → Crypto Deposit
Select the cryptocurrency you want to deposit
Choose the correct network (this must match the sending exchange)
Copy your deposit address
Send from your other exchange to this address
Warning: Always verify the network matches on both exchanges. Sending crypto on the wrong network can result in permanent loss of funds.
Method 4: P2P Trading (Zero Fees)
Peer-to-peer trading lets you buy crypto directly from other Bybit users with zero platform fees:
Go to Buy Crypto → P2P Trading
Browse available sellers
Select a seller with good ratings and competitive prices
Complete the transaction using their accepted payment method
P2P trading is particularly useful in regions with limited fiat deposit options.
Understanding Bybit's Account Structure
Bybit uses two main account types that you need to understand before trading:
Funding Account
Your Funding Account holds deposits and withdrawals. When you first add money to Bybit, it appears here.
Unified Trading Account
Your Unified Trading Account is where you actually trade. You must transfer funds from Funding to Unified Trading before placing any trades.
How to Transfer Between Accounts
Click the Transfer button in the upper right corner
Select From: Funding and To: Unified Trading
Click "All" to transfer your entire balance, or enter a specific amount
Click Confirm
The transfer happens instantly. You can verify by checking Assets → Unified Trading to see your available balance.
Converting Between Cryptocurrencies
The easiest way to swap one cryptocurrency for another is using Bybit's Convert feature:
Go to Buy Crypto → Convert
Select the cryptocurrency you want to spend (e.g., USDT)
Select the cryptocurrency you want to receive (e.g., BTC)
Enter the amount or click "All"
Click Get a Quote
Confirm within the countdown timer
Conversions execute at current market rates with minimal slippage. This is the simplest trading method—perfect for beginners who just want to buy and hold cryptocurrency.
How to Trade on Bybit's Spot Market
The Spot Market is where you buy and sell real cryptocurrency. When you purchase Bitcoin on the spot market, you own actual Bitcoin.
Accessing the Spot Market
Click Trade → Spot in the main navigation
Select your trading pair (e.g., BTC/USDT)
The trading interface opens with charts, order book, and trading panel
Reading the Price Chart
Bybit displays candlestick charts by default. Each candle represents a specific time period:
Green candles: Price increased during that period
Red candles: Price decreased during that period
Candle body: Shows the open and close prices
Wicks (thin lines): Show the highest and lowest prices reached
You can change timeframes using the buttons above the chart (1m, 5m, 15m, 1H, 4H, 1D, 1W).
Understanding the Order Book
The order book shows all pending buy and sell orders:
Red orders (top): Sellers waiting to sell at specific prices
Green orders (bottom): Buyers waiting to buy at specific prices
Quantity column: Shows how much is being bought or sold at each price
The order book updates in real-time as traders place and cancel orders.
Mastering Order Types
Bybit offers several order types for different trading strategies.
Market Orders (Instant Execution)
A market order executes immediately at the best available price:
Select Market in the order panel
Choose Buy or Sell
Enter the amount or use the slider (25%, 50%, 75%, 100%)
Click Buy BTC (or your selected asset)
Market orders guarantee execution but not price—useful when you need to enter or exit quickly.
Limit Orders (Price Control)
A limit order lets you specify the exact price for your trade:
Select Limit in the order panel
Enter your desired price in the Order Price field
Enter the amount you want to trade
Click Buy or Sell
For buy limits, set a price below the current market price. For sell limits, set a price above. The order remains open until filled or cancelled.
Take-Profit and Stop-Loss Orders (Risk Management)
TP/SL orders automatically close your position when price reaches specified levels:
Select TP/SL in the order panel
Set your Trigger Price (the price that activates the order)
Choose Limit or Market for execution type
Select the quantity to sell
Confirm the order
Always use stop-losses to protect your capital. A common approach is placing stops below recent support levels.
Introduction to Bybit Futures Trading
Futures trading lets you trade contracts based on cryptocurrency prices rather than the actual assets. The key advantage is leverage—the ability to control larger positions with less capital.
Spot vs. Futures: Key Differences
FeatureSpot TradingFutures TradingWhat you tradeReal cryptocurrencyPrice contractsLeverageNone (1x)Up to 100xCan profit from drops?NoYes (short selling)Risk levelLowerHigher
Understanding Leverage
Leverage multiplies both profits and losses. With 5x leverage:
A 2% price increase = 10% profit
A 2% price decrease = 10% loss
Higher leverage means higher risk. Beginners should start with low leverage (2-5x) until they understand the mechanics.
⚡ Leverage Risk Calculator
See how leverage amplifies both gains and losses:
$
-5%
Position Size
$1,000
Your capital × leverage
Your Profit / Loss
-$50
50% of your capital lost
Est. Liquidation Price
-10%
Price drop that wipes your position
At 10x leverage, a 10% price drop liquidates your entire position.
Quick scenarios:
The Liquidation Price
Every leveraged position has a liquidation price—the point where your position is automatically closed to prevent further losses. This appears when you place a futures order.
Critical Rule: Always set your stop-loss above your liquidation price. If your stop-loss is below the liquidation price, your position will be forcibly closed before your stop triggers.
How to Place a Futures Trade
Here's a step-by-step walkthrough of opening a futures position:
Go to Trade → Futures
Select your trading pair (e.g., BTCUSDT)
Set your leverage using the slider (start with 5x or less)
Choose Market or Limit order type
Enter your position size
(Optional) Check the TP/SL box and set levels
Click Buy/Long (betting price goes up) or Sell/Short (betting price goes down)
Review the confirmation window—especially the estimated liquidation price
Confirm the trade
Managing Open Positions
Your active futures positions appear in the Positions tab below the chart. Here you can:
Monitor unrealized profit/loss
View entry price and liquidation price
Add or modify take-profit/stop-loss levels
Close all or part of the position
Closing a Futures Position
To exit a position:
Go to the Positions tab
Find your open position
Click Close by and select Market (instant) or Limit (specific price)
Choose the percentage to close (100% for full exit)
Confirm the close
Technical Analysis Basics on Bybit
Technical analysis helps you identify potential entry and exit points by studying price charts. Here are the essential tools available on Bybit.
Expanding the Chart
Click the full-screen button (two arrows icon) to enlarge the chart for better analysis.
Drawing Trend Lines
Trend lines help identify market direction:
Click the Trend Line Tools icon (upper left)
Select Trend Line
Click on a starting point (swing low in an uptrend)
Drag to an ending point (another swing low)
Copy the line (Ctrl+C, Ctrl+V) to create parallel channels
Breakouts above resistance trend lines often signal buying opportunities.
Identifying Chart Patterns
Chart patterns like the bullish flag can signal continuation moves:
Flag pole: A strong price move in one direction
Flag: A consolidating range that slopes against the prior move
Breakout: When price exits the flag in the original direction
The video example shows a textbook bullish flag that led to a significant upward move after breaking resistance.
Using Volume Analysis
The volume indicator (bars below the chart) shows trading activity:
Tall bars: High trading activity during that period
Short bars: Low trading activity
Volume on breakouts: Breakouts with high volume are more significant
To customize volume display, click the settings cog and disable the moving average line for cleaner visualization.
The MACD Indicator
MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence) helps identify momentum shifts:
Click Indicators at the top of the chart
Search for "MACD" and add it
The indicator appears below the price chart
Default settings work well, but for faster signals, try: Fast Length: 3, Slow Length: 10, Signal: 16.
Strong momentum spikes on MACD often precede pullbacks—potential entry opportunities for trend continuation trades.
Fibonacci Retracement
Fibonacci retracement levels help predict where pullbacks may reverse:
Select Fibonacci Tools → Fib Retracement
In an uptrend, click from the swing low to the swing high
Key levels appear: 0.382, 0.5, 0.618
Most healthy pullbacks reverse somewhere between the 0.382 and 0.618 levels. The 0.5 level (50% retracement) is particularly significant.
Essential Risk Management Rules
No technical analysis tool guarantees profitable trades. Protect your capital with these principles:
Always use stop-losses: Every trade should have a predetermined exit point
Set realistic profit targets: Use take-profit orders to lock in gains
Size positions appropriately: Never risk more than 1-2% of your account on a single trade
Start with spot trading: Master the basics before using leverage
Use low leverage initially: If trading futures, start with 2-5x until you're consistently profitable
Keep a trading journal: Track your decisions to identify patterns in your winning and losing trades
Your Next Steps
You now have everything you need to start trading on Bybit. Here's the recommended progression:
Create your account using the bonus link to claim up to $30,000 in rewards
Complete KYC verification to unlock all features
Secure your account with 2FA and Google Authenticator
Start with small deposits while you learn the platform
Practice spot trading first before exploring futures
Study technical analysis to improve your entry and exit timing
For deeper learning, explore our complete trading course library covering Smart Money Concepts, chart patterns, candlestick analysis, and more.
Ready to Start Trading?
Create your Bybit account today and claim up to $30,000 in bonuses with code 88512.
🔒 Secure signup
⚡ Instant activation
🎁 Bonuses auto-applied
Frequently Asked Questions About Bybit Trading
Is Bybit safe to use in 2026?
Bybit is one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges globally, serving millions of users. The platform employs industry-standard security measures including two-factor authentication, cold storage for funds, and regular security audits. For maximum protection, enable all available security features including Google Authenticator and SMS verification.
How long does Bybit KYC verification take?
Level 1 KYC verification typically takes under 5 minutes when completed via the mobile app. You'll need a government-issued ID and to complete facial recognition. Level 2 verification (proof of address) may take 1-3 business days for manual review.
What's the minimum deposit on Bybit?
Bybit doesn't have a strict minimum deposit. However, for bank transfers (SEPA), the recommended minimum is €10. For credit card purchases, minimums vary by card issuer. Crypto deposits have no minimum, though you'll need enough to cover trading fees.
What's the difference between Bybit spot and futures trading?
Spot trading involves buying and selling actual cryptocurrency—you own real Bitcoin or Ethereum. Futures trading involves contracts that track crypto prices, allowing you to use leverage (up to 100x) and profit from both rising and falling markets. Beginners should start with spot trading before exploring futures.
How does the Bybit referral bonus work?
When you sign up using referral code 88512, you become eligible for trading bonuses up to $30,000. Bonuses are credited based on your trading activity and deposit amounts. Over 80% of new users who use a referral code receive at least $100 in bonuses.
Can I use Bybit without completing KYC?
No, Bybit requires at least Level 1 KYC verification to access trading features. This is a regulatory requirement that helps prevent fraud and ensures platform security. The verification process is quick and straightforward.
What is the liquidation price in futures trading?
The liquidation price is the level at which your leveraged position is automatically closed to prevent further losses. It's calculated based on your position size, leverage, and margin. Always set stop-losses above your liquidation price to maintain control over your exit.
How do I withdraw money from Bybit?
To withdraw, go to Assets → Withdraw, select your currency, and choose your withdrawal method (crypto transfer or fiat withdrawal where available). Withdrawals may require additional verification. Processing times vary from instant for crypto to 1-3 business days for fiat.
Test Your Bybit Knowledge
Continue Your Trading Education
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Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Trading and investing in cryptocurrency involve substantial risk of loss. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Always conduct your own research and consider your financial situation before making any investment decisions. This article contains affiliate links—we may receive compensation if you sign up through our links, at no additional cost to you.
