YouTube Premium offers an ad-free experience, offline video downloads, and access to YouTube Music, but many hesitate to try it due to the credit card requirement. The good news? You can enjoy a free YouTube Premium trial without a credit card. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps, explore alternative payment methods, and share tips to maximize your trial.
Why Try YouTube Premium?
→ Before we get to the how-to, let’s look at why YouTube Premium is worth exploring:
- Ad-Free Viewing: Watch videos without interruptions.
- Offline Downloads: Save videos for offline playback, perfect for travel or low-data areas.
- YouTube Music: Stream music ad-free with a Spotify-like experience.
- Background Playback: Listen to videos with your screen off, ideal for podcasts or music.
- Exclusive Content: Access YouTube Originals and creator-exclusive videos.
A free trial lets you test these features risk-free. But what if you don’t want to share your credit card details? Here’s how to get started.
How to Get a Free YouTube Premium Trial Without a Credit Card
YouTube typically requires a payment method for trials to prevent abuse, but there are workarounds. Follow these steps to access a 1 month free trial (or sometimes longer, depending on promotions) without a credit card.
1. Use a Virtual Card or Prepaid Card
→ Virtual cards and prepaid debit cards are excellent alternatives to traditional credit cards. Here’s how to use them:
- Virtual Cards: Services like Privacy.com (US only) or Revolut allow you to create disposable virtual cards linked to your bank account. Set a $0 limit to prevent charges after the trial.
- Prepaid Debit Cards: Purchase a Visa or Mastercard prepaid card from retailers like Walmart, CVS, or online platforms. Load it with a small amount (e.g., $1) to meet YouTube’s verification needs.
Steps:
- Sign up for a virtual card service or buy a prepaid card.
- Go to YouTube Premium’s signup page.
- Select the trial offer (usually 1 month).
- Enter your virtual or prepaid card details.
- Complete the signup and enjoy your trial.
→ Tip: Cancel the trial a few days before it ends to avoid charges, even if your card has no funds.
2. Use PayPal as a Middleman
If you have a PayPal account, you can link a bank account or use PayPal’s “PayPal Key” (where available) to bypass entering a credit card directly on YouTube.
Steps:
- Log in to your PayPal account.
- Go to YouTube Premium and select “PayPal” at checkout.
- Authorize the trial through PayPal account.
- Confirm your subscription.
→ Note: Ensure your PayPal account isn’t linked to a credit card with sufficient funds if you want to avoid post-trial charges.
3. Check for Promotional Offers
→ YouTube often partners with companies to offer free trials without payment details. These promotions are region-specific and time-limited, so keep an eye out:
- Mobile Carriers: Providers like Verizon or Vodafone sometimes bundle YouTube Premium trials with plans for their plans. Check your plan’s perks.
- Device Manufacturers: Purchasing a new Samsung, Google Pixel, or Xiaomi phone may include a 2 to 3 month trial. Activate it through the YouTube app pre-installed on the device.
- Third-Party Platforms: Websites like Swagbucks or survey apps may reward you gift cards redeemable for YouTube Premium trials.
Steps:
- Search for current promotions (e.g., “YouTube Premium free trial 2023 no credit card” or check X for real-time offers).
- Follow the partner’s instructions, which may involve signing up through a unique link.
- Redeem the trial without entering payment details.
→ Pro Tip: Avoid shady websites claiming “hacked” or “free” trials. Stick to official YouTube partners to protect your account.
4. Use a Google Play Gift Card (Android Only)
→ If you’re an Android user, you can use a Google Play gift card to fund your trial without a credit card.
Steps:
- Purchase a Google Play gift card (available at retailers or online).
- Redeem the code in the Google Play Store.
- Sign up for YouTube Premium through the YouTube app.
- Select “Google Play Balance” as your payment method.
- Start your trial.
→ Note: Ensure the gift card balance covers at least one month of YouTube Premium’s regular price ($11.99 in the US, varies by region).
Maximizing Your YouTube Premium Trial
→ To get the most out of your free trial, try these tips to maximize it:
- Download Content Early: Save videos and playlists for offline use right away, especially if you’re traveling.
- Explore YouTube Music: Create playlists and test the ad-free music streaming to see if it suits your needs.
- Test Background Play: Use YouTube for podcasts or audiobooks while multitasking on your phone.
- Check Family Sharing: If you’re on a family plan trial, invite up to test the service on multiple devices.
- Set a Cancellation Reminder: Use your phone’s calendar or apps like Google Keep to remind you to cancel 2-3 days before the trial ends.
Conclusion
Enjoying a YouTube Premium trial without a credit card is entirely possible with virtual cards, PayPal, gift cards, or promotional offers. By following the steps above, you can explore ad-free videos, offline downloads, and YouTube Music risk-free. Always cancel before the trial ends to avoid charges, and keep an eye on X or official YouTube channels for the latest promotions.
Disclaimer: Always use trusted services for payment methods and avoid sharing sensitive information with unverified platforms. Prices and promotions are accurate as of June 14, 2025, but may vary by region.
