How to Change Your TikTok Username (2026 Guide)
You can change your TikTok username from the Edit profile screen, but TikTok limits how often you can do it. This guide explains the steps, the 30-day rule, the character limits, the difference between your username and nickname, and what to do if the change will not save.
Quick answer: go to Profile, tap Edit profile, tap Username, enter the new handle and tap Save. Most guides say you can change your username once every 30 days.
Key Takeaways
- Username and nickname are different. The username is your @handle, and the nickname is the display name at the top of your profile.
- The 30-day rule. Most sources say you can change your username only once every 30 days.
- Character limits. Usernames are commonly described as 2 to 24 characters with letters, numbers, underscores and periods.
- Your profile URL changes. Old links to your username will stop working, so update your bio links.
- Plan before you change it. Your old username may be claimed by someone else.
Table of Contents
How to Change Your TikTok Username
Figure 1. Four steps to change your TikTok username.
- Open the TikTok app and tap Profile.
- Tap Edit profile.
- Tap the Username field.
- Type your new username. TikTok will tell you if it is available.
- Tap Save. A message reminds you that you cannot change it again for a period, commonly 30 days.
On a computer, log in at tiktok.com, open your profile, choose Edit profile and edit the Username field. The same limits apply on mobile and desktop, according to most guides.
TikTok Username Rules and Limits
| Rule | What guides report |
|---|---|
| How often | Once every 30 days; the timer resets from your last change |
| Length | 2 to 24 characters |
| Allowed characters | Letters, numbers, underscores and periods |
| Not allowed | Spaces, most symbols and a period at the end |
| Uniqueness | It must not already be taken by another account |
Rules can change, so treat these as a guide and check the message in your app.
Username vs Nickname
- Username (@handle). Your unique ID. It appears in your profile URL, in mentions and in search.
- Nickname (display name). The bold name at the top of your profile. It can contain spaces and emojis and is easier to change. Sources disagree on how often you can change it, so check your Edit profile screen.
If you only want a fresh look, changing the nickname is the safe option. Use our TikTok bio ideas to pair a new name with a new bio.
If You Cannot Change Your TikTok Username
- The 30-day lock. If you changed it recently, you must wait. The Edit profile screen can show when you can change it again.
- The name is taken. Try a variation with an underscore, a period or a number.
- Invalid characters. Remove spaces and symbols, and avoid ending with a period.
- Outdated app. Update TikTok and try again.
- Technical glitch. Log out and in, or try the web version.
Avoid tricks such as changing your phone’s date to bypass the wait. They are not official and can cause other problems.
What Happens After You Change It
- Your profile URL changes. Old links and shared URLs will stop working, so update your bio links, link-in-bio pages and other profiles. See how to add a link to your TikTok bio.
- Your old name may be reused. Another account may be able to take it, so think before you give it up.
- Mentions may break. People who tagged your old handle may need to re-tag you.
- Keep branding consistent. Try to match your TikTok and Instagram handles. See how to add your Instagram to TikTok.
How to Pick a Good TikTok Username
- Keep it short and easy to say. People should be able to type it from memory.
- Match your niche or brand. A clear name helps new followers know what you post.
- Avoid long numbers. They look like spam accounts.
- Check it on other platforms. Try to keep the same handle everywhere.
Need ideas? See our list of TikTok username ideas. If you run a brand, read our guide to TikTok Business accounts.
Before-and-After Checklist
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| Before | Pick the new name, check it is available and note that you cannot change it again for a while |
| Before | List the places that link to your profile, such as your website, email signature and other profiles |
| After | Update your link-in-bio pages, Instagram bio and any pinned posts that show your old handle |
| After | Tell followers in a video or caption so they can find you |
| After | Check your profile URL and share it with partners and brands you work with |
Common Username Mistakes
- Changing it too often. You are locked out for a while, and followers may lose track of you.
- Choosing something too trendy. A name tied to a joke or trend can age badly.
- Adding random numbers. They make a name hard to remember and look like spam.
- Forgetting your other platforms. A different handle on each platform makes you harder to find.
- Not updating old links. Old URLs break, so fix them right after the change.
Rebranding Your TikTok?
A new name works best with a growing audience. To grow real followers on TikTok and Instagram and automate DMs, see how AiGrow can help.
See How AiGrow WorksFrequently Asked Questions
How do I change my TikTok username?
Go to Profile, tap Edit profile, tap Username, enter your new handle and tap Save.
How often can you change your TikTok username?
Most guides say once every 30 days, counted from your last change.
What is the difference between a TikTok username and a nickname?
The username is your unique @handle used in your profile URL. The nickname is the display name at the top of your profile and can include spaces and emojis.
Why can I not change my TikTok username?
You may be within the 30-day lock, the name may be taken or contain invalid characters, or the app may need an update.
Can I get my old TikTok username back?
Only if nobody else has taken it. Another account may claim your old name after you change it, so choose carefully.
Will my followers lose me if I change my username?
No, your followers stay, but your profile link changes, so update your bio links and tell followers about the new handle.
