How to Create a Free Salesforce Developer Org (Step-by-Step Guide)

Written By Gary Elbaum

Quick Summary

  • Completely free Salesforce account – A Developer Org is available at no cost and never expires if you log in regularly.

  • Full developer environment – Includes Salesforce Lightning, APIs, Apex, Visualforce, and automation tools.

  • Easy sign-up process – Takes just minutes with a valid email address.

  • Sandbox alternative – Safely test apps and features without affecting production data.

  • Best for learning Salesforce – Ideal for admins, developers, and anyone preparing for Salesforce certifications.

What Is a Salesforce Developer Org?

A Salesforce Developer Org (often called a free Salesforce account or Salesforce sandbox alternative) is a personal Salesforce environment provided by Salesforce at no cost. It offers nearly the same functionality as enterprise editions, making it perfect for:

  • Learning Salesforce basics and advanced features

  • Practicing for Salesforce certification exams

  • Developing and testing custom apps

  • Experimenting with automation tools and integrations

  • Installing and testing AppExchange packages

Step 1: Go to the Salesforce Developer Sign-Up Page

Visit the official Salesforce Developer free trials page.

Step 2: Complete the Registration Form

Enter the following details:

  • Full name

  • Email address (must be valid for confirmation)

  • Company name (can be personal or “Self”)

  • Country

  • Username (must be in email format but doesn’t need to match your actual email)

Step 3: Verify Your Email

Check your inbox for a Salesforce confirmation email. Click the activation link to set your password.

Step 4: Log In to Your Developer Org

After activation, you’ll have full access to your free Salesforce Developer Org, which includes:

  • Salesforce Lightning Experience

  • APIs for integrations

  • Apex programming & Visualforce

  • Flow and automation tools

  • AppExchange marketplace access

Step 5: Start Learning, Building, and Testing

Your free Developer Org is renewable indefinitely as long as you log in occasionally. This makes it the best way to:

  • Learn Salesforce for free

  • Practice Salesforce admin & development skills

  • Test new features before using them in production

  • Build apps without needing a paid Salesforce license

written w GPT

Gary Elbaum
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