Creating Your AWS Account
Free, and about 10 minutes, start to finish.
Sign up
Go to aws.amazon.com and click Create an AWS Account. Enter your email, set a strong root password, and verify your inbox.
Choose account type
Select Personal. It gets you the same features as a business account, there's no functional downside for learning.
Add a payment method
AWS requires a credit or debit card, but won't charge it unless you exceed Free Tier limits. Keep an eye on usage while you're learning.
Verify your identity
AWS calls or texts you with a PIN to confirm it's really you.
Pick a support plan
Select Basic (Free). It's everything you need while learning, nothing is missing that you'd notice.
Activation usually takes a few minutes, occasionally up to 24 hours. You'll get a confirmation email either way. AWS Free Tier then lets you explore most services at no cost for 12 months.
Signup is free and takes about 10 minutes. The only thing to watch afterward is staying inside Free Tier limits while you practice.