A handle is unique and has a set character list
Each handle belongs to one profile. It can use letters, numbers, periods and underscores and runs up to 30 characters. If someone else holds the exact spelling, you cannot take it.
You change a username in Edit profile or Accounts Center
Instagram’s help page describes both places. If an account reaches a lot of people, Instagram says the change may need a review, and followers may be notified.
A previous username may be available to you again
Instagram says you can usually change back to a name you used before if it has not been taken by a new person and has not been recently removed from an active account you do not own. That is the one route that needs no claim.
The display name is not the handle
People often search by display name. The handle is what appears in the profile link and in tags. Changing the display name never frees or takes a handle.
A taken handle has three possible states
A holder may be active, inactive or the handle may be free. The inactive handle check shows how to tell the first two apart from outside the account.
Official sources
- Instagram Help Center: change your username
- Instagram Help Center: using a previous username
- Instagram Help Center
Platforms change their help pages and forms often. Follow the wording on your own screen and the current Help Center. Atclaim is an independent service and is not affiliated with Meta or any platform named on this site.