Now you can be one of the cool kids - on Twitter, at least. 

Twitter has re-opened its application process for checkmarks, allowing any ole' user to get a verified account. That said, Twitter tends to dole out verified badges sparingly, reserving them for public figures, brands, journalists, politicians, athletes, and high-profile users. Back in the day, you couldn't even ask to be verified. It would just randomly happen.

Now, however, anyone can fill out a form and request verification.

Doing so will notify Twitter of your interest, and if the company deems your account worthy or "of public interest", you'll finally get that coveted checkmark. In other words: You'll get a seat at the cool kids' lunch table.

How to to get verified on Twitter: The application process explained photo 2
Pocket-lint

What is a verified Twitter account?

Ever see a Twitter profile with a checkmark next to the name of the person?

See Kim Kardashian West's profile for an example. That checkmark is called a "verified badge".  It lets people know that the account is authentic and of public interest. You'll see it on profiles and in search results. 

Who is eligible to be verified on Twitter?

Twitter verifies accounts maintained by users in "music, acting, fashion, government, politics, religion, journalism, media, sports, business, and other key interest areas". It's unclear if Twitter ever verifies everyday people, but we're assuming no. Currently, to receive the so-called "blue badge", Twitter said your account must be "authentic, notable, and active".

How to get verified on Twitter

If you believe your Twitter account is of public interest and should be verified, you can apply through your account settings in the Twitter app and on twitter.com. Simply follow the steps below.

  1. Click on the [...] icon.
  2. Go to your Settings and privacy
  3. Go to your Account and scroll over to Account information.
  4. Tap Verification Request
  5. Tap Start Request
  6. Submit your request.
  7. Twitter will get back to you with a decision. It may take a few weeks.

Note: Twitter will ask you to prove your account is "authentic, notable, and active". For criteria required, see this FAQ page.

Who reviews verification requests?

Twitter each eligible application is reviewed "by a human" to ensure it is "thoughtfully and thoroughly" considered. Sometimes, Twitter will pause accepting applications if it experiences a backlog. It paused in May 2021, for instance, but re-opened later in the year. 

Any other tips you should know?

Before you complete Twitter's verified badge request form, make sure your account meets the following standards:

  • A verified phone number.
  • The profile name should reflect the real or stage name.
  • A confirmed email address.
  • A complete bio.
  • A profile photo that reflects the person/brand/company.
  • A birthday (for accounts that are not a company/brand/organization).
  • A website link.
  • Tweets set as public in Tweet privacy settings.

What happens if your request is rejected?

You’re welcome to reapply for verification 30 days after rejection. You can apply once every 30 days.

Want to know even more?

This Twitter support page includes troubleshooting steps that may help you in your journey to get verified.