For most transactions, you need three things: cash, your mobile phone, and a crypto wallet with a receive address. No bank account, no debit card, and no pre-registration is required.
A government-issued photo ID is required above certain purchase amounts, which can vary by state and verification tier. The machine will prompt you when an ID scan is needed. Accepted forms of ID include a U.S. driver's license, state-issued ID card, or passport. The ATM's built-in scanner reads the ID directly. You don't hand it to anyone.
If you're new to crypto, install a wallet app before you go so you have your receive address ready. Exodus, Trust Wallet, and MetaMask are all solid options that take a few minutes to set up. You'll need to scan your wallet's QR code at the machine, so make sure your phone battery is charged.
Bring enough cash for the amount you plan to purchase, plus a small buffer. Bitstop ATMs accept $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 bills. Purchase minimums are shown on the machine screen before you confirm. If it's your first visit, the whole process typically takes 3–5 minutes.
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