Demo Account · 2026
CMC Markets Demo Account — Free Trial Guide 2026
Everything you need to know about CMC Markets's free demo account, including signup, platforms, and transitioning to live.
ESMA Risk Warning
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Between 74-89% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Quick Answer
Yes, CMC Markets offers a free demo account. No deposit is required. The demo runs on Next Generation Platform, MetaTrader 4 with real-time market data and typically lasts 30 days (extendable). Trade with virtual funds while practising strategies and learning the platform.
How to Sign Up for a CMC Markets Demo
- 1
Visit CMC Markets
Go to cmcmarkets.comand click the "Open Demo Account" link in the header or footer.
- 2
Fill in the short form
Enter your name, email, phone, country of residence, and preferred platform. No KYC, no ID upload, no proof of address needed for demo access.
- 3
Choose platform & settings
Select from Next Generation Platform, MetaTrader 4, pick an account type, virtual balance (typically EUR 10,000 - EUR 100,000), and leverage level.
- 4
Download & log in
Credentials arrive by email within minutes. Download the desktop platform, open the web trader, or install the mobile app and log in with the demo credentials.
Duration & Limitations
Duration
Typically valid for 30 days from first login. Many brokers allow an extension on request, or you can simply open a new demo after expiry. Some platforms (notably MT4 and MT5) may keep the demo active as long as you log in regularly.
Execution Differences
Demo execution is usually instant with tight spreads. Live trading introduces slippage, occasional requotes, and real gapping during volatile events. Treat demo as a platform familiarity and strategy backtesting tool, not a perfect simulation of live conditions.
Transitioning from Demo to Live
Most experienced traders recommend at least 1-3 months on demo before transitioning to live. Use demo to validate that your strategy is profitable across different market conditions, that you are comfortable with the platform's features, and that your risk management rules hold up under pressure. When you are ready, open a real account through CMC Markets's client area, complete KYC verification, and fund with the minimum deposit of any amount you choose. Consider starting with small position sizes to let yourself adjust to the psychological pressure of real money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does CMC Markets offer a demo account?
How do I open a CMC Markets demo account?
How long does the CMC Markets demo account last?
What are the limitations of the CMC Markets demo?
Can I switch from CMC Markets demo to live trading?
Is there a minimum deposit to open a CMC Markets demo?
Open a free CMC Markets demo
Practice trading with virtual money — no deposit or commitment required.
CFD Risk Warning
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Between 74-89% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
This website is for informational purposes only. The content does not constitute investment advice. Trading leveraged products carries a high level of risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Past performance is not indicative of future results. EU retail leverage limits apply (ESMA): up to 30:1 on major FX pairs, 20:1 on minor FX, 20:1 on major indices, 10:1 on commodities, 5:1 on equities, 2:1 on crypto.