What Is a PBE Account in League of Legends and How to Get One
I remember the first time I logged into the PBE and got to try a champion that was still weeks away from the live servers. The Public Beta Environment is one of League’s most underused corners, so here is what a PBE account actually is, who can make one, and why some players buy one outright.
Quick answer: what is a PBE account?
- The Public Beta Environment (PBE) is League’s test server, where new champions, skins, and balance changes go live early.
- To create one, your main account usually needs to be level 30 with Honor level 2 or above and in good standing.
- PBE accounts get generous test currency so you can try almost anything for bug-testing.
- Progress on the PBE is separate from live and can be reset at any time.
If your main does not meet the eligibility bar, or you simply want PBE access without the wait, you can get a ready PBE account instead. Keep in mind that account buying is against Riot’s Terms of Service, so factor that in.
What is the Public Beta Environment used for?
The PBE is where Riot tests content before it reaches live servers, and players help by trying it and reporting bugs. You can play upcoming champions, preview unreleased skins, and feel out balance changes early, which is why testers, content creators, and curious players all want access.
Because it is a test realm, the PBE is intentionally unstable. Queues can be rough, builds change often, and your account there does not carry over to your normal ranked or collection.
Who can create a PBE account?
You can create a PBE account if your main League account meets the eligibility checks: typically summoner level 30, Honor level 2 or higher, and no active bans or restrictions. Riot runs the check when you visit the PBE signup page and click to confirm your eligibility.
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Account level | Level 30 on your main account |
| Honor level | Honor 2 or above |
| Standing | No active bans or restrictions |
| Client | Separate PBE download (around 12 GB) |
How do you sign up for the PBE?
You log in on the official PBE signup page with your Riot account, run the eligibility check, and if you pass, you create a separate PBE username and download the PBE client. Once installed, you select the PBE environment in the Riot Client to play.
Why do players buy a PBE account?
Players buy a ready PBE account to skip the eligibility requirements — mainly the level 30 and Honor 2 thresholds on a main they may not have. A pre-made account gives immediate access to test content without grinding a separate main up to the bar first.
FAQ
Is the PBE free?
Yes, the PBE itself is free for eligible players. The eligibility requirements are the main barrier.
Does PBE progress affect my live account?
No. The PBE is a separate environment, and its currency, collection, and rank do not transfer to live.
Can my PBE account be reset?
Yes. Riot can reset PBE accounts and currency as part of testing, so treat it as temporary.
Do I keep skins I get on the PBE?
No. PBE content is for testing only and does not carry to your live account.
Is account buying allowed by Riot?
No. Riot’s Terms of Service do not allow buying or sharing accounts, so understand the risk first.