You don't need to bind both at the same time. You can register with either your email or phone number, but the platform will keep reminding you to add the other one, mainly for account security and future verification.
OKX offers two registration paths: sign up with email or with a phone number. You only need to fill in one initial contact method; the system won't force you to provide both at that moment. But there's a catch: if you choose 'Sign up with phone number', you'll be asked to add an email later. Similarly, if you use email, you'll be prompted to add a phone number. In the end, you'll have both linked, but that's part of completing the registration process, not a requirement to enter both at the start.
Why We Recommend Binding Both
The main reason is account security and recovery. In OKX's security settings, email, phone number, and Google Authenticator serve as three independent pillars. Changing your password, withdrawing funds, modifying security settings, or appealing account issues all require verification through your linked contact methods. If you only bind one, and that channel fails (your phone number gets deactivated or your email gets locked), your recovery options become very narrow. The platform doesn't require you to bind both, but it won't actively warn you about this risk.
Risk Warning
The email and phone number you bind must be under your own name and usable long-term. One ID can only be linked to one OKX account, and your contact details are tied to KYC. Once registered, you can't easily change or remove them. If you use a temporary phone number or a disposable email, swapping them later will be very difficult, and withdrawals will be blocked for 24 hours after changing.
Common Reasons for Failure
Many people using Chinese phone numbers can't receive SMS codes because their carrier blocks international messages—switching to email registration solves this. Another common issue is not checking the spam folder for the verification email; the code expires after 10 minutes.
Next Steps
Start by using your most frequently used and stable contact method to register. After logging in, go to the security settings page and add the second verification method, and also enable Google Authenticator to further boost your account security level.
