> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.docketstream.org/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Create a DocketStream Account and Sign In to Your Dashboard

> Set up your DocketStream account in minutes. Covers registration, email verification, identity verification, plan selection, and signing in.

Getting started with DocketStream takes only a few minutes. You can create an account, verify your identity, and begin monitoring Georgia correctional records right away — no credit card required to start your 14-day free trial.

## Create Your Account

<Steps>
  <Step title="Go to DocketStream and click Get Started">
    Open [docketstream.org](https://www.docketstream.org) in your browser and click the **Get Started** button in the top navigation or the hero section of the homepage.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Enter your name, email address, and create a password">
    Fill in your first and last name, a valid email address, and a secure password. Your email address becomes your login credential, so use one you check regularly.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Verify your email address">
    Check your inbox for a verification email from DocketStream. Click the **Verify Email** link inside to confirm your address. If the email doesn't arrive within a few minutes, check your spam folder or request a new verification link from the sign-in page.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Complete identity verification">
    DocketStream requires a one-time identity verification before you can access correctional data. Follow the on-screen prompts to submit the required information. This step is mandatory for all users and typically completes in under two minutes.

    <Note>
      Identity verification is required by law for access to correctional and public records data. DocketStream uses this step to ensure responsible use of the platform and to maintain compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Your information is handled securely and never sold to third parties.
    </Note>
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose your plan">
    Select the plan that fits your needs — **Starter**, **Professional**, or **Enterprise**. During your 14-day free trial, your account defaults to Professional-level features so you can explore the full platform before committing to a plan.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Start searching">
    You're in. Use the search bar to look up individuals, set up Smart Alert watchers, or browse county rosters. Your trial is active immediately.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Compare Plans" icon="list-check" href="/pricing">
    Review the full feature breakdown for Starter, Professional, and Enterprise plans to find the right fit.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Set Up Watchers" icon="bell" href="/account/managing-watchers">
    Learn how to create Smart Alert watchers and get notified of bookings, releases, and bond changes.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

***

## Sign In to Your Account

1. Go to [docketstream.org](https://www.docketstream.org).
2. Click **Sign In** in the top-right corner of the page.
3. Enter your email address and password, then click **Sign In**.

You'll be taken directly to your dashboard.

***

## Reset Your Password

If you've forgotten your password, you can reset it from the sign-in page.

1. On the sign-in page, click **Forgot password?** below the password field.
2. Enter the email address associated with your account and click **Send Reset Link**.
3. Check your inbox for a password reset email and click the link inside.
4. Enter and confirm your new password.

<Note>
  Password reset links expire after 30 minutes. If your link has expired, return to the sign-in page and request a new one.
</Note>