How-To Guide

How to Use a Bitcoin ATM: Step-by-Step

Everything you need to know before you walk up to a Bitcoin ATM for the first time.

What to bring

For transactions under $960 at most machines, you only need cash and a smartphone with a Bitcoin wallet app installed. For larger transactions, you will also need a government-issued photo ID. Have your wallet app open and ready to display your QR code before you approach the machine.

If you do not have a Bitcoin wallet yet, download one before going to the ATM. Recommended options for beginners: Coinbase Wallet, Trust Wallet, or BlueWallet. All are free and available on iOS and Android. The ATM cannot send Bitcoin to an exchange account address — you need a personal wallet.

Step 1: Select your transaction

The touchscreen will present options. Most machines offer "Buy Bitcoin" as the primary option. On two-way machines you will also see "Sell Bitcoin." Select buy. The machine will explain the fee structure and current exchange rate on the next screen.

Step 2: Complete identity verification

For small transactions (typically under $20–$50 depending on the operator), no verification may be required. For most standard purchases:

• Tier 1 (up to ~$960): Enter your phone number. The machine sends a verification code via SMS. Enter the code to proceed.
• Tier 2 (up to ~$3,000): Phone verification plus government photo ID scan. The machine's camera reads the ID and sometimes takes a live selfie.
• Tier 3 (larger amounts): Social Security Number and enhanced verification. Most casual users will not transact at this level.

Step 3: Enter your Bitcoin wallet address

The machine will ask for your Bitcoin wallet address. Open your wallet app and tap "Receive" to display your QR code. Hold your phone up to the ATM's scanner. The machine reads the QR code and displays the address on screen for you to confirm. Make sure it matches. This is where your Bitcoin will be sent.

Step 4: Insert your cash

Insert bills into the bill validator. The machine accepts bills one at a time or in batches depending on the model. The running total is displayed on screen, showing both the cash amount and the corresponding Bitcoin value at the current rate. Insert as much as you want to spend.

Step 5: Confirm and receive your receipt

The confirmation screen shows your exact cash amount, the fee, the Bitcoin price being used, and the exact amount of Bitcoin you will receive. Review these numbers. If everything looks correct, press confirm. The machine prints a receipt with a transaction ID.

Step 6: Wait for the Bitcoin to arrive

After confirmation, the operator broadcasts the Bitcoin transaction to the blockchain network. Arrival time in your wallet depends on the operator's method:

• Instant send: Some operators send from their hot wallet immediately. Your wallet shows the Bitcoin within seconds.
• Standard confirmation: The transaction appears as pending in your wallet within minutes and confirms fully after 1–3 blockchain confirmations, typically 10–30 minutes.

Keep your receipt until the transaction fully confirms in your wallet. The receipt contains the transaction ID which can be used to track the transaction on a blockchain explorer if needed.

What if something goes wrong?

If the machine takes your cash but does not send Bitcoin, or if your wallet shows nothing after 60 minutes, call the support number printed on the machine. Bring your receipt. Reputable operators have customer support to resolve technical issues and will refund or reprocess failed transactions.