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How to join a Zoom call from a link
A doctor, church group or family member sent you a Zoom link. You don't need an account to join. Here's how, step by step.
Checked against official help pages on October 22, 2026.
Quick answers
Do I need a Zoom account to join?
No. Zoom lets you join a meeting without an account. Click the link in your invite.
Do I have to download Zoom?
On a computer, you can often join from your web browser if the host allows it. On a phone or tablet, you'll usually be asked to get the Zoom app.
Why am I stuck on a waiting screen?
You're probably in the waiting room. The host lets people in, so just wait.
Can I join by phone call?
Some meetings let you dial in. Call the phone number in the invite, then type the meeting ID and passcode.
Join from the link
- Open the email or text with the invite.
- Tap or click the link under Join Zoom Meeting.
- If asked, open the Zoom app, or choose Join from your browser on a computer.
- Check that your camera and microphone are on, then tap Join.
- If you see a waiting screen, wait. The host will let you in.
No link, just a meeting ID?
- Go to join.zoom.us in your web browser.
- Type the meeting ID the host gave you.
- Click Join and follow the prompts.
Before the call
- Ask Zoom's test meeting or a family member for a practice call.
- Charge your device, and sit somewhere with light in front of you, not behind.
- Write the meeting ID and passcode on paper in case the link doesn't work.
Where this comes from
We checked these official pages on October 22, 2026:
Menus can change after updates. If a step doesn't match your screen, tell us and we'll fix it.