Cryptocurrency continues to attract new users worldwide, and knowing how to navigate a reliable exchange is essential. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of using OKX, one of the leading cryptocurrency platforms. From registration and identity verification to buying, trading, and cashing out digital assets, this tutorial ensures you gain full control over your crypto journey — all while following best security practices.
Whether you're purchasing your first USDT or trading Bitcoin on the spot market, this guide covers it all in clear, easy-to-follow steps.
Step 1: Register an OKX Account and Get a 20% Fee Discount
To begin, visit the official OKX platform via a secure link. Signing up through specific referral channels can unlock exclusive benefits, including a 20% discount on trading fees — a valuable perk for both beginners and active traders.
👉 Start your crypto journey with lower fees today.
During registration:
- Select your country of residence (ensure it matches your legal documents).
- Enter a valid email address.
- Manually input the invite code 41322075 if not pre-filled — this enables your fee discount.
- Confirm your email with the verification code sent to your inbox.
- Proceed to bind your mobile number (use +86 for mainland China users).
- Create a strong password (minimum 8 characters: uppercase, lowercase, number, and special symbol).
Once completed, your account is ready. Remember: always access OKX using a stable network connection. For smoother access in restricted regions, connecting via a Taiwan-based IP is often recommended.
Step 2: Complete Identity Verification (KYC)
Before buying or selling crypto, you must complete Know Your Customer (KYC) verification. Without it, withdrawal and trading limits apply.
Here’s how:
- Open the OKX app on your mobile device.
- 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).
The process takes just minutes and significantly enhances account security and functionality.
⚠️ Pro Tip: Download the OKX app via QR code scan from the website. iOS users may need a non-mainland Apple ID (e.g., Taiwan region) to install the app due to regional App Store restrictions.
👉 Verify your account now and unlock full trading capabilities.
Step 3: Buy Cryptocurrency Using C2C Trading
Most beginners start by purchasing USDT (Tether), a stablecoin pegged to the US dollar. It acts as a bridge between fiat money and volatile cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.
How to Buy USDT via C2C:
- Go to Buy Crypto > C2C Buy.
- Choose USDT as the cryptocurrency.
- Enter the CNY amount (e.g., 1,000 RMB).
- Select your preferred payment method: bank transfer, Alipay, or WeChat Pay.
- Filter sellers by high completion rate, low price, and fast release speed.
- Click Buy USDT and review the seller’s terms (e.g., no remarks required).
After confirming:
- Pay the seller via your chosen method.
- Return to OKX and click I have paid only after completing the transfer.
- Wait for the seller to release USDT — funds are escrowed by OKX for safety.
🔒 All communication should happen within OKX's built-in chat system. Avoid external messaging apps to prevent fraud and ensure dispute resolution support.
Some transactions include a T+3 security hold, meaning newly bought USDT cannot be withdrawn for 72 hours — but you can still trade it immediately on the spot market.
Step 4: Perform Spot Trading (Buy Bitcoin or Other Coins)
Now that you have USDT, it's time to trade for other cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC).
Fund Transfer:
- Move USDT from Funding Account to Trading Account.
- Use the Transfer function — no fees apply.
Execute a Trade:
- Go to Trade > Spot.
- Search for BTC/USDT trading pair.
Explore the interface:
- Left panel: market overview
- Center: interactive K-line chart
- Right: order book (green = bids, red = asks)
Order Types:
- Limit Order: Set your desired price. Example: Buy 0.01 BTC when price hits $50,000.
- Market Order: Instant buy/sell at current best price.
For quick entry:
- Select Market, enter amount, and click Buy BTC.
- Your purchase completes instantly at the prevailing market rate.
Selling works the same way — just switch to the Sell tab and choose your order type.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is OKX safe for beginners?
A: Yes. OKX uses advanced encryption, two-factor authentication (2FA), and cold wallet storage to protect user funds. Just follow security best practices like enabling 2FA and avoiding phishing sites.
Q: Why can't I download the OKX app in China?
A: Due to local app store policies, iOS users may need a non-Chinese Apple ID (e.g., Taiwan). Android users can safely download the APK from the official site.
Q: What is C2C trading?
A: Peer-to-peer trading where buyers and sellers transact directly, with OKX acting as escrow. It supports local payment methods like Alipay and bank transfers.
Q: Can I trade without KYC?
A: Limited features are available without verification, but full trading and withdrawals require completed KYC.
Q: How long does a bank withdrawal take?
A: C2C payouts are typically instant once confirmed. Traditional fiat withdrawals may take 1–3 business days depending on your bank.
Q: Are there hidden fees on OKX?
A: No. Fees are transparent: taker and maker rates apply in spot trading, while C2C is generally fee-free for buyers.
Step 5: Cash Out Crypto (Sell and Withdraw Funds)
When it's time to convert crypto back into fiat:
- Transfer USDT from Trading Account back to Funding Account.
- Go to Buy Crypto > C2C > Sell.
- Choose how much USDT to sell and select your payout method.
- Pick a reputable buyer with high ratings.
- After receiving payment, confirm receipt in-app.
💡 Avoid using salary or primary bank cards for receiving funds — they’re more likely to be flagged or frozen due to anti-money laundering checks.
With this guide, you now have everything needed to confidently use OKX — from registration to profit realization. Stay secure, trade wisely, and keep learning.
👉 Secure your account and start trading with confidence today.