You can change your Instagram username or display name from your phone or computer in under a minute

Instagram lets you change two different names: your username (the handle people use to find you, like @yourname) and your display name (what appears above your posts). You can change your display name as often as you want with no restrictions. Your username can be changed once every 14 days, and Instagram will tell you if you have already used your change recently. Both changes happen in your account settings, not in your profile itself.

The process is the same whether you use the Instagram app on your phone or the website on a computer. You do not need to log out, and the change takes effect when ready.

Key Takeaways

  • Your display name (the text above your posts) can be changed at any time with no waiting period.
  • Your username (your @handle) can be changed once every 14 days, and Instagram will block you if you try to change it sooner.
  • Both changes are made in Settings > Edit Profile, not on your profile page itself.
  • If your desired username is taken, you will see that message when ready and must choose a different one.
  • Changing your name does not affect your followers, messages, or any content you have posted.

How to change your display name

Your display name is the easiest change to make because there are no restrictions. Open Instagram and tap your profile icon in the bottom right corner (on the app) or click your profile picture in the top right (on the web). Then tap "Edit Profile."

Find the field labeled "Name" at the top of the form. This is your display name. Delete the current text and type your new name. You can use spaces, numbers, and most special characters. When you are done, tap or click "Done" or "Save" at the top of the screen. The change appears when ready on your profile.

How to change your username

Your username is the @handle that people type to find you. Go to your profile, tap "Edit Profile," and find the field labeled "Username." Delete your current username and type the new one you want.

Instagram will check in real time whether that username is available. If it is taken, you will see a message saying so, and you will need to choose a different one. If it is available, a checkmark appears. Tap or click "Done" or "Save" when you are ready. Your new username is live when ready.

If you have already changed your username in the past 14 days, Instagram will show you a message telling you when you can change it again. You cannot bypass this waiting period.

What happens to your account when you change your name

Changing either your display name or username does not affect your followers, your messages, or your posts. People who follow you will still follow you. Direct messages you have sent and received stay in your inbox. All your photos, videos, and captions remain exactly as they were.

If someone had bookmarked or saved a link to your old username, that link will no longer work. However, Instagram usually redirects old username links to your new one for a short time. If you are worried about people losing track of you, you can mention the change in your bio or in a story.

If your desired username is already taken

Instagram shows you when ready whether a username is available as you type. If the one you want is taken, you have a few options. You can add numbers to the end (like @yourname123), use an underscore or period (like @your_name or @your.name), or choose a completely different name.

You cannot request that Instagram release a username that someone else is using, even if that account is inactive. The only way to get a specific username is if the current owner changes it or deletes their account.

Changing your name on a computer versus a phone

The steps are identical on both devices. On your phone, use the Instagram app. On a computer, go to instagram.com in your browser and log in. Tap or click your profile picture, select "Edit Profile," and make your changes the same way. The only difference is that you will tap buttons on a phone and click them on a computer.

If you use Instagram on both devices, the change syncs automatically. You do not need to change your name separately on each one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my username more than once every 14 days?

No. Instagram enforces a 14-day waiting period between username changes. If you try to change it sooner, you will see a message telling you the exact date when you can change it again. This limit applies to everyone and cannot be bypassed.

Will my old username become available for someone else to use?

Yes, but not when ready. After you change your username, Instagram holds your old one for a period of time (usually a few weeks) before making it available to other users. This prevents someone from when ready claiming your old handle.

What if I change my mind right after changing my username?

You can change it back, but you will have to wait 14 days from your most recent change. If you changed your username today, you cannot change it again until 14 days from now, even if you want to switch back to your original name.

Does changing my name affect my Instagram business account or creator account?

No. The process is the same for all account types. Your follower count, verified badge (if you have one), and all account features remain unchanged.

Can I use special characters or emojis in my username?

Usernames can only contain letters, numbers, periods, and underscores. Emojis and other special characters are not allowed in usernames. However, you can use them in your display name.