How to Change LinkedIn URL
Change your LinkedIn URL to a custom, professional address. Step-by-step guide to customize your profile link and remove random characters.
Changing your LinkedIn URL lets you replace the random characters LinkedIn assigns with a clean, professional custom address. The process takes less than a minute on desktop.
Key Takeaways
- Where: Edit public profile & URL settings (desktop only)
- Rules: 5-30 characters, letters/numbers/hyphens only
- Limit: 5 changes per 6 months
- Old URL: Stays active for 6 months after change
Why Change Your LinkedIn URL
Before (default):
linkedin.com/in/john-doe-a7b8c9d0
After (custom):
linkedin.com/in/johndoe
A custom URL:
- Looks more professional
- Is easier to remember
- Fits better on business cards
- Makes a stronger impression
Step-by-Step: Change Your LinkedIn URL
Step 1: Go to Your Profile
Log in to LinkedIn on desktop and navigate to your profile:
- Click Me in the top navigation
- Select View Profile
Step 2: Open URL Settings
Find the URL editing option:
- Look at the right sidebar
- Click Edit public profile & URL
This opens your public profile settings.
Step 3: Edit Your Custom URL
Locate the custom URL section:
- Find Edit your custom URL in the right panel
- Click the pencil icon (✏️) next to your current URL
Step 4: Enter Your New URL
Type your preferred URL:
- Enter 5-30 characters
- Use only letters, numbers, or hyphens
- Avoid spaces and special characters
- Don't include "LinkedIn" in your URL
Step 5: Save Changes
- Click Save
- If your URL is available, it's now active
- If taken, try a variation
LinkedIn URL Rules
According to LinkedIn Help:
| Rule | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Length | 5-30 characters |
| Allowed characters | a-z, 0-9, hyphens |
| Not allowed | Spaces, symbols, "LinkedIn" |
| Changes | Maximum 5 per 6 months |
| Availability | First-come, first-served |
What If Your Preferred URL Is Taken?
Try these variations:
| Strategy | Example |
|---|---|
| Add middle initial | linkedin.com/in/johnrdoe |
| Add profession | linkedin.com/in/johndoe-cmo |
| Add location | linkedin.com/in/johndoe-nyc |
| Add number | linkedin.com/in/johndoe1 |
| Use hyphen | linkedin.com/in/john-doe |
What Happens to Your Old URL
When you change your LinkedIn URL:
- New URL activates immediately: Works as soon as you save
- Old URL stays linked: Continues working for 6 months
- After 6 months: Old URL may become available to others
- No broken links: Anyone using your old URL still reaches you (for 6 months)
Can I Change My LinkedIn URL on Mobile?
No. URL customization is only available on the desktop website. The mobile app doesn't provide access to public profile URL settings.
Workaround: Open LinkedIn in your mobile browser (not the app), request desktop site, and follow the desktop steps.
Common Issues and Solutions
"This URL is already in use"
Solution: Try a variation. Add initials, profession, or numbers to make it unique.
"You've reached the maximum number of changes"
Solution: Wait until 6 months have passed since your fifth change. You're limited to 5 URL changes per 6-month period.
"Invalid characters"
Solution: Remove spaces, special characters, or the word "LinkedIn" from your URL. Only use letters, numbers, and hyphens.
Can't find the edit option
Solution: You must be on the desktop website. The option is in the right sidebar when viewing your profile settings.
Best Practices for Your New URL
Keep It Professional
- ✅ linkedin.com/in/sarahjohnson
- ✅ linkedin.com/in/sarah-johnson-cfo
- ❌ linkedin.com/in/coolsarah123
- ❌ linkedin.com/in/hireme
Make It Memorable
- Use your actual name when possible
- Keep it short
- Make it easy to spell
Be Consistent
- Match your other professional profiles
- Use the same format across platforms
- Consider personal branding
Frequently Asked Questions
How often can I change my LinkedIn URL?
You can change your LinkedIn URL up to 5 times in any 6-month period. After reaching this limit, you must wait for the period to reset.
Does changing my URL affect my connections?
No. Your connections, messages, and profile content remain unchanged. Only your URL changes—everything else stays the same.
Should I include my job title in my LinkedIn URL?
Generally, no. Job titles change, but your URL stays. Use your name for longevity. If your name is common, consider adding your profession (e.g., johndoe-attorney).
Can I get my old URL back?
If you change back within 6 months, yes. After 6 months, your old URL might be claimed by someone else and won't be retrievable.
After Changing Your URL
With your new professional URL:
- Update your resume with the new link
- Refresh your email signature
- Order new business cards if needed
- Update social media profiles
And ensure your profile content is worth visiting. ConnectSafely.ai helps you build LinkedIn authority so that your new URL leads to real opportunities.
Make your LinkedIn profile work harder. Start your free trial and attract qualified leads.
