A Goodnotes account helps us identify your subscription status, so we can make sure you have access to the benefits included with your plan.
When you sign up for Goodnotes or start a free trial, we'll guide you through creating an account! You can create a Goodnotes account using an email address and a one-time code, or by signing in with an Apple, Google, or Microsoft account.
If you have Apple, Google, or Microsoft accounts that use the same email address, Goodnotes may still treat them as separate accounts. Always sign in with the same provider you used to create your account.
Getting Started
Create your account with an email address
You can create a Goodnotes account with your email address by verifying it with a one-time code. This means you do not need to create a password or use a third-party sign-in provider.
- Go to the Goodnotes sign-in page.
- Select Sign in with a one time code.
- Enter your email address.
- Check your inbox for a 6-digit code from Goodnotes. It usually arrives within 30 seconds.
- Enter the code on the verification screen.
- Enter your name, then continue through the short setup steps.
You'll land in Goodnotes once setup is complete.
The one-time code is used to verify your email address. You do not need to create a password. Didn't get the code? Wait 60 seconds, then select Resend Code. You can only request a new code once every 60 seconds.
Sign Back In If You Already Have an Account
If you enter an email address that's already linked to a Goodnotes Account, you'll go through the same steps above. Instead of creating a new account, entering your code signs you back in to your existing account. Please note: You'll see the same screens either way. This is intentional, so no one can tell whether an email address already has an account just by trying to sign up with it.
If You See an Error Message
Goodnotes doesn't accept temporary or disposable email addresses (for example, from Mailinator or 10 Minute Mail). If you enter one, you'll see a message asking you to use a valid email address. Please note: If you typed your real email address incorrectly, you won't see an error. Instead, you won't receive a code. Double check your email address for typos and try again.
See also FAQ on using a one-time code
Create your account with Apple, Google, or Microsoft
You can also create a Goodnotes account by signing in with one of these providers.
- Open the Goodnotes app or go to Goodnotes on the web.
- When prompted to sign in or start your free trial, choose your preferred sign-in method.
- Sign in with the account you want to use with Goodnotes.
- Once you complete sign-in, that account becomes your Goodnotes account.
If you have Apple, Google, or Microsoft accounts that use the same email address, Goodnotes may still treat them as separate Goodnotes accounts. Make sure you remember both the sign-in provider and the account details you used.
Why your sign-in method matters
Your Goodnotes account is linked to the sign-in method you chose when creating it. If you later sign in with a different provider, even if it uses the same email address, Goodnotes may treat it as a different account.
This can prevent Goodnotes from finding your subscription or one-time payment correctly, or you may see this error: "It looks like your Goodnotes account is already associated to a different sign in method."
To avoid this, always sign back in using the same provider and account you originally used. If you created a Goodnotes account with a one-time code, choose that option again to sign back in.
Check which account you're using
You can check the sign-in method linked to your Goodnotes account from the Library View.
- Open Goodnotes.
- From the Library View, tap into your Account in the top-right corner (you'll see your initials)
- Tap View Account and check Linked Via and Email.
These details show which sign-in provider and email address are linked to your current Goodnotes account.
FAQ on using a one-time code
What is sign-in with a one-time code?
It's a way to create or access your Goodnotes Account using just your email address. Instead of a password, Goodnotes emails you a 6-digit code to confirm it's you.
Do I still need a Google, Microsoft, or Apple account?
No. This option is for anyone who can't use or doesn't want to use those sign-in providers. If you prefer one of them, you can still choose it on the sign-in page.
What happens if I already have an account?
Entering your email signs you back in to your existing account rather than creating a duplicate. You'll see the same steps as a new sign-up.
I didn't receive my code. What should I do?
Check your spam or junk folder first. If it's still not there after a minute, select Resend Code. You can request a new code once every 60 seconds.
Why does it say my email address isn't valid?
Temporary or disposable email services aren't supported for account creation. Use a permanent email address, such as one from your workplace or a personal email provider.