Where to change your username

You change your Call of Duty username through your Activision account, not through the game itself. Log into your Activision account at activision.com, go to your Account Settings, and look for the section labeled "Activision ID" or "Display Name" — the exact label depends on which region your account is in and when it was created.

Your Activision ID is what other players see when you play. It is separate from your login email. You can change it without changing how you log in, and you can change it back later if you want to.

Key Takeaways

  • You change your username through Activision.com in your Account Settings, not inside the Call of Duty game.
  • The first change is free, but changing your username again costs 9.99 USD or the equivalent in your region's currency.
  • Your new username takes effect when ready in Call of Duty, but may take a few minutes to show up in your friends' lists.
  • You cannot use a username that is already taken, contains profanity, or violates Activision's code of conduct.
  • If you forget your Activision password, you will need to reset it before you can access your account settings.

The step-by-step process

Start by going to activision.com and clicking "Log In" in the top right corner. Enter your email address and password. If you use two-factor authentication on your account, you will be asked to enter a code from your phone or email.

Once you are logged in, click on your account name or profile icon in the top right, then select "Account Settings." Look for a section called "Activision ID," "Display Name," or "Battletag" — the name varies by region. Click "Edit" or "Change" next to your current username.

Type your new username into the text field. Activision will tell you when ready if the name is already taken or violates their code of conduct. If it is available, click "Confirm" or "Save." Your new username is active right away in Call of Duty multiplayer, Warzone, and other Activision games.

What happens to your old username

Once you change your username, your old one becomes available for someone else to use. You cannot reserve it or get it back later unless you change your username again and then change it back before anyone else claims it.

Your friends will see your new username the next time they log in or refresh their friends list. Old messages, match history, and stats stay attached to your account — they do not disappear when you change your name.

The cost of changing your username again

Your first username change is free. If you want to change it a second time, Activision charges 9.99 USD in the United States. The price in other regions varies — check your regional Activision store to see the exact amount in your currency.

You can change your username as many times as you want after the first change, but you will pay the fee each time. There is no limit on how many times you can do it, and there is no waiting period between changes.

Usernames that will not work

Activision rejects usernames that contain profanity, slurs, or hateful language. They also reject names that impersonate real people, celebrities, or Activision staff members. Names that are too similar to existing usernames may be rejected as well.

If your chosen name is rejected, you will see a message explaining why. Try a different name — you can attempt as many names as you want during the change process without being charged.

If you cannot log into your account

If you forgot your Activision password, go to activision.com and click "Log In," then click "Forgot your password?" Enter your email address, and Activision will send you a reset link. Check your spam folder if you do not see the email within a few minutes.

If you no longer have access to the email address attached to your account, you will need to contact Activision Support through their website. They can help you regain access, but the process can take several days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my username back to what it was before?

Only if no one else has claimed it in the meantime. Since your old username becomes available when ready after you change it, someone else may have taken it. If they have, you would need to wait for them to change their username or contact Activision Support to see if there are any other options.

Does changing my username affect my rank or stats?

No. Your rank, wins, losses, and all other stats stay with your account. Only your display name changes. Friends and other players will see your new name, but your history and progress remain the same.

How long does it take for my new username to show up everywhere?

Your new username is active in Call of Duty when ready. It may take a few minutes to a few hours to show up in your friends' lists and in social features, but the game itself will recognize it right away.

What if someone else is using a username I want?

You cannot claim a username that is already in use. If the name you want is taken, you will need to choose a different one. Activision does not have a waiting list or reservation system for usernames.

Can I change my username on console or mobile?

No. You must change your username through the Activision website on a computer or mobile browser. The option is not available inside the game on any platform.